🐾 Traveling to Iraq with Pets
Pet-Friendly Iraq
Iraq, particularly the Kurdistan region, is increasingly welcoming to pets, especially dogs. From ancient sites to modern parks in Erbil, pets can join family adventures. Many hotels, restaurants, and transport options in safer areas accommodate well-behaved animals, though policies vary by region.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and ferrets need a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, confirming no infectious diseases.
Certificate must include details on vaccinations and treatments for parasites.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination must be current and administered at least 30 days before entry.
Vaccination must be valid for the entire stay; check expiry dates on certificates carefully.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
Chip number must match all documentation; bring microchip reader confirmation if possible.
Import Permit
Pets require an import permit from the Iraqi Ministry of Agriculture; apply in advance through your embassy.
Additional quarantine may apply for pets from high-risk rabies countries; check with Iraqi authorities.
Restricted Breeds
Certain aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls may be restricted; check with local authorities in Baghdad or Erbil.
Breeds may require special permits and muzzle/leash mandates in urban areas.
Other Pets
Birds, rabbits, and rodents have different entry rules; check with Iraqi veterinary services.
Exotic pets may require CITES permits and additional health certificates for entry.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Iraq on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Erbil & Sulaymaniyah): Many 3-4 star hotels welcome pets for 10,000-25,000 IQD/night, offering basic amenities. Chains like Divan and Rotana are reliably pet-friendly in Kurdistan.
- Desert Lodges & Guesthouses (Najaf & Karbala): Traditional accommodations often welcome pets at no extra charge, with access to nearby green spaces. Ideal for cultural trips with dogs.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and local listings frequently allow pets, especially in Erbil. Entire homes offer more freedom for pets to roam and relax.
- Family Guesthouses (Basra): Riverside stays in southern Iraq welcome pets and often have resident animals. Suitable for families with children and pets seeking authentic experiences.
- Campsites & Eco-Lodges: Sites near marshes in southern Iraq are pet-friendly, with designated areas and nearby trails. Popular with pet owners exploring nature.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end hotels like Corinthia Erbil offer pet services including grooming and walking for discerning travelers.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Desert & Mountain Trails
Iraq's landscapes offer pet-friendly walks in Kurdistan's mountains and southern deserts.
Keep dogs leashed near wildlife and check trail rules at protected areas.
Rivers & Marshes
Southern marshes near Basra have areas for dog swimming and exploration.
Check local signage for restrictions in wetlands and riverbanks.
Cities & Parks
Erbil's Citadel Park and Minare Park welcome leashed dogs; outdoor cafés allow pets.
Baghdad's Zawra Park permits dogs on leash; most outdoor areas welcome well-behaved pets.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Iraqi café culture in Erbil extends to pets; water bowls outside are common.
Many modern coffee houses allow dogs in outdoor areas; ask staff before entering.
Historical Walking Tours
Outdoor tours in Erbil and Babylon welcome leashed dogs at no extra charge.
Ancient sites are pet-friendly; avoid indoor museums with pets.
Cable Cars & Lifts
Some lifts in Kurdistan allow dogs in carriers; fees typically 5,000-10,000 IQD.
Check with operators; advance booking may be needed for pets.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (Limited): Small dogs travel free in carriers; larger dogs need tickets and must be leashed. Available on Baghdad-Erbil routes.
- Buses & Taxis (Urban): Erbil and Sulaymaniyah public transport allow small pets free; larger dogs 2,000 IQD with leash. Avoid crowded times.
- Taxis: Ask driver before entering with pets; most accept with notice. Local apps like Careem may offer pet-friendly options.
- Rental Cars: Agencies allow pets with notice and cleaning fee (20,000-50,000 IQD). SUVs suit larger dogs and regional trips.
- Flights to Iraq: Check airline policies; Flydubai and Turkish Airlines allow cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review requirements. Compare on Aviasales.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Qatar Airways and Royal Jordanian accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for 50,000-100,000 IQD each way. Larger dogs in hold with certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Clinics in Erbil (Kurdistan Veterinary Center) and Baghdad provide urgent care, some 24-hour.
Travel insurance covering pets; vet costs 20,000-100,000 IQD for consultations.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Local markets and chains in Erbil stock food, medicine, and accessories.
Pharmacies carry basic pet medications; bring prescriptions for specialized drugs.
Grooming & Day Care
Cities like Erbil offer grooming and daycare for 10,000-30,000 IQD per session.
Book ahead in tourist areas; hotels recommend local services.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services in Kurdistan for pet-sitting during trips; apps like Rover emerging.
Hotels may offer pet-sitting; ask concierge for trusted options.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in urban areas, parks, and historical sites. Rural areas may allow off-leash if controlled.
- Muzzle Requirements: Some cities require muzzles on large dogs in public transport. Carry one even if not enforced.
- Waste Disposal: Carry waste bags; bins available in cities. Fines for not cleaning up (10,000-50,000 IQD).
- River & Water Rules: Check signage for dog areas in marshes; respect local customs and wildlife.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets welcome outdoors; ask before indoors. Keep dogs quiet and on floor.
- Historical Sites: Leash pets at sites like Babylon; stay on paths to protect ruins.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Iraq
Iraq for Families
Iraq offers rich history and culture for families, especially in safer Kurdistan. Interactive sites, parks, and welcoming communities engage kids. Facilities include family areas, though plan for regional differences with stroller access and children's options.
Top Family Attractions
Erbil Family Fun Park
Modern amusement area with rides, games, and playgrounds for all ages.
Entry free; rides 2,000-10,000 IQD. Open year-round with family events.
Baku Zoo (Erbil)
Regional zoo with local animals, interactive exhibits, and educational programs.
Tickets 10,000-15,000 IQD adults, 5,000-8,000 IQD kids; great for family outings.
Erbil Citadel
Ancient fortress with museums, views, and kid-friendly history tours.
Entry included in family passes; explore with audio guides for children.
Sulaymaniyah Museum
Interactive archaeology museum with artifacts and hands-on displays.
Tickets 5,000-8,000 IQD adults, 3,000 IQD kids; multilingual exhibits.
Ur Archaeological Site (Nasiriyah)
Ancient ziggurat with guided tours and storytelling for kids.
Tickets 15,000 IQD adults, 8,000 IQD kids; historical adventure.
Hawraman Mountain Adventures (Kurdistan)
Family hikes, picnics, and cultural villages in scenic mountains.
Suitable for kids 5+ with easy trails and local guides.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Iraq on Viator. From ancient site tours to Kurdish adventures, find tickets and experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Erbil & Baghdad): Hotels like Van Royal offer family rooms for 50,000-150,000 IQD/night. Amenities include cribs and play areas.
- Kurdistan Resorts: Family-oriented stays with kids' clubs and pools. Properties like Sami Abdulrahman Park hotels cater to families.
- Traditional Guesthouses: In Najaf, welcome families with cultural experiences for 30,000-80,000 IQD/night including meals.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering in Erbil ideal for families with kitchens and space.
- Budget Hostels: Family rooms in Sulaymaniyah for 40,000-70,000 IQD/night with kitchen access.
- Heritage Stays: Converted historical homes in Karbala for unique family experiences.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Erbil with Kids
Citadel explorations, family parks, bazaars, and modern malls with play areas.
Cultural shows and ice cream at local vendors make Erbil fun for children.
Sulaymaniyah with Kids
Museum visits, Azadi Park picnics, cultural festivals, and river walks.
Child-friendly music events and boat rides keep families entertained.
Dohuk with Kids
Lake Duhok swims, mountain hikes, local zoo, and adventure parks.
Cable car rides to viewpoints with family picnics and wildlife spotting.
Southern Iraq (Basra)
Marshland boat tours, Shatt al-Arab walks, date palm groves.
Easy family outings with scenic spots and local storytelling.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Children under 5 travel free; ages 5-12 get discounts. Family areas on limited routes.
- City Transport: Erbil offers family passes for 10,000-15,000 IQD. Buses and taxis are stroller-friendly.
- Car Rentals: Book child seats (5,000-10,000 IQD/day); required for kids under 12. 4x4s for regional travel.
- Stroller-Friendly: Cities like Erbil have ramps and smooth paths; attractions provide parking for strollers.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Restaurants offer simple meals like kebabs or rice for 5,000-10,000 IQD. High chairs available.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Traditional eateries with outdoor seating and casual vibes. Erbil's markets have diverse stalls.
- Self-Catering: Supermarkets stock baby food and diapers. Local markets for fresh produce.
- Snacks & Treats: Bakeries offer sweets and fruits; great for kids between meals.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In malls, hotels, and major sites with facilities.
- Pharmacies: Stock baby essentials; staff assist with recommendations.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels arrange sitters for 10,000-20,000 IQD/hour.
- Medical Care: Clinics in cities; hospitals with pediatric care. Travel insurance recommended.
♿ Accessibility in Iraq
Accessible Travel
Iraq, especially Kurdistan, improves accessibility with ramps and inclusive sites. Tourism in Erbil provides info for barrier-free trips, though challenges exist in historical areas.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: Limited routes offer wheelchair spaces; assistance available with notice.
- City Transport: Erbil buses have low floors; taxis accommodate wheelchairs.
- Taxis: Accessible options via apps; standard taxis for folding chairs.
- Airports: Erbil and Baghdad airports provide assistance and accessible facilities.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Sites: Erbil Citadel has ramps; museums offer audio guides.
- Historic Sites: Babylon partially accessible; Erbil old town improving.
- Nature & Parks: Parks in Kurdistan have accessible paths; family areas wheelchair-friendly.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for adapted features.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) and autumn (Sept-Nov) for mild weather; avoid hot summers (June-Aug).
Winter (Dec-Feb) mild in Kurdistan, cooler in south with fewer crowds.
Budget Tips
Family sites offer group discounts; local cards include transport savings.
Picnics and self-catering save while suiting family needs.
Language
Arabic and Kurdish official; English in tourist areas and Kurdistan.
Basic phrases help; locals welcoming to families.
Packing Essentials
Light clothes for heat, modest attire for sites, sun protection.
Pet owners: bring food, leash, waste bags, vet records.
Useful Apps
Google Maps, Careem for taxis, local guides for sites.
Erbil apps for transport and events.
Health & Safety
Check travel advisories; water safe in cities. Pharmacies for advice.
Emergency: 122 for police/medical. Insurance essential.