Asia > 🇮🇶 Iraq
The city by city Car or no Car advice for Iraq can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Iraq; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Iraq?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Iraq?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🏙️ Main Cities in Iraq
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Baghdad | BGW | |
| Najaf | NJF |
Car or No Car: Iraq
Iraq is slowly re-emerging as a destination for the most intrepid travellers — a land of ancient civilisations, sacred cities, and vast desert plains. Yet, it remains one of the more complex and unpredictable countries to explore. So, should you rent a car in Iraq? In most cases, no, unless you’re travelling under organised or local guidance.
⚠️ Political & Security Situation
The situation in Iraq varies widely. The Kurdistan Region in the north (around Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, and Duhok) is generally stable and welcoming to tourists, with relaxed visa-on-arrival rules and improving infrastructure. However, central and southern Iraq, including Baghdad, Karbala, Najaf, and Basra, can still experience security incidents, political unrest, and checkpoints.
Visitors should check official travel advisories and stay in contact with reputable local guides. Some areas may still have restricted access for foreigners, and photography near military or government sites is strictly prohibited.
🚗 Driving in Iraq
Driving conditions range from modern motorways in Kurdistan to rough, potholed roads in rural areas. Traffic in Baghdad can be chaotic, with little lane discipline and frequent roadblocks. Outside major cities, fuel is cheap, but navigation is tricky, and GPS coverage isn’t always reliable.
Car rental services exist in Erbil and Baghdad, including local companies and a few international ones such as Hertz and Europcar. However, foreign visitors rarely self-drive; instead, they hire a car with a local driver or guide, which is safer and simplifies movement through checkpoints.
✈️ & 🚌 Alternatives
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Domestic flights link Baghdad, Basra, Najaf, and Erbil efficiently and cheaply.
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Private drivers and guides are the most practical way to explore, especially for day trips to ancient sites like Babylon or Hatra.
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Long-distance buses operate between major cities, but they are slow and not always reliable for non-locals.
🕌 Cultural Sensitivity
Iraq is a deeply traditional society, and modest dress is essential for both men and women, especially in holy cities. Alcohol is limited, and public behaviour should always remain respectful. Always carry your passport, as identity checks are common.
🧭 Summary
So, should you rent a car in Iraq? Not unless you have local support or are staying in the Kurdistan Region. Elsewhere, a private driver or guided tour is far safer and more practical. Iraq is a place to explore slowly and respectfully — not a destination for spontaneous road trips.
Car or No Car Rating: 🚗💧 Mostly No – safe only with a driver, best avoided for self-drive.
