Baghdad offers a rich shopping experience for traditional Iraqi, Arab, and Islamic treasures, best found in historical souqs like Al-Shorja and Al-Safafir (Copper Market). Top buys include high-quality Iraqi dates, intricate handmade copper plates and lamps, spices, tea sets, traditional clothing, perfume, and handmade rugs.
Baghdad was obviously the most expensive city in all Iraq, while Mosul was the cheapest. Kurdistan lies somewhere in between and the rest of Iraq is pretty affordable.
The markets are a sensory overload, with the smell of spices and the vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables. You can find everything from fresh produce to spices, meats, and baked goods. One of the must-try dishes in Baghdad is biryani, a rice dish that is flavored with saffron and a variety of spices.
Iraq is the world's largest producer of dates, the chief export crop. Cotton, sugarcane, and sugar beets also have significant commercial value. Livestock are also an important part of Iraq's agricultural economy. Camels, sheep, and goats are raised in many parts of the country.
Modest, loose outfits covering arms, legs, and chest. Headscarf required at religious sites and shrines, optional in some secular areas, recommended in some of Iraq. Trousers, maxi skirts, and tunics are safe everyday choices.
Avoid possible targets such as crowded places and public spaces, including markets, transport hubs, places of worship and government facilities. If you must visit them, always have an exit plan. The US Embassy in Baghdad issued a security alert on 15 June warning of an increased potential for terrorist attacks.
Travelers need a visa to visit Iraq for Business or Tourism. Travelers must obtain a paper or embassy visa from an embassy, consulate or visa center before traveling.
Baghdad Sharif, a city steeped in history, spirituality, and culture, holds immense significance for Muslims and history enthusiasts worldwide. Renowned as the resting place of the great Islamic scholar Hazrat Abdul Qadir Jilani (RA), Baghdad Sharif attracts thousands of pilgrims annually.
Al-Mutanabbi Street is considered the most famous street in all of Iraq due to its ancient history and community. The Street is crowded from the early hours of the morning until late at night with visitors including poets, writers, artists and students as well as tourists from all over the world.
In Baghdad the way people dress is much more modern and relaxed, with men and women alike in jeans and shirts, however when visiting the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala you must dress more conservatively.
Among the most characteristic products of the country is its popular white and blue ceramics elaborated by hand, mosaics, carpets and tapestries. Gold and silver are also goods that have acquired great prestige in the country, and in many of the stores they sell good quality jewellery.
There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Iraq. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more. Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently throughout the country.
Red Zone was a term in use during the occupation of Iraq designating unsafe areas in Iraq after the 2003 invasion by the United States, United Kingdom, and other allies. It is contrasted with the high-security sector of Baghdad called the Green Zone.
Iraq, home to one of the largest oil reserves in the world, has a significant oil and gas industry. It is also popular for its agriculture and tourism.
Iraq's largest city, Baghdad is the seat of government. It generates 40% of the economy of Iraq. A major center of Islamic history, Baghdad is home to numerous historic mosques, as well as churches, mandis and synagogues, highlighting the city's historical diversity.
