Iraq
Regional risks
This section has safety advice for regions of Iraq. It only covers regions where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has specific advice.
You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.
Northern and western Iraq
Areas liberated from Daesh are likely to contain remnants of war and improvised explosive devices.
Baghdad
Routes in and out of Baghdad and its airports may close with little or no notice. Check your routes in advance of travelling.
There is still a threat of terrorist groups targeting hotels in Baghdad. Stay alert and follow the advice of local authorities.
Avoid political gatherings and large crowds. Reduce your movement around banks, restaurants, and shopping malls. Follow instructions from security officials.
Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI)
There is still a risk of attacks by Daesh in KRI.
Turkey carries out regular military in the north of KRI and on occasion, further south. There is particular risk in mountainous areas:
- Qandil
- Makhmur
- near the border with Turkey
Military action may affect crossing points along the Iraq-Turkey border.
On 15 January, Iranian missiles targeted the north-eastern edge of Erbil city, near the areas of Kasnazan and Mulla Omar. Ballistic rockets and drones have previously attacked other areas of Erbil, Koya and surrounding areas, and border regions.
Since October 2023, drones and rockets have attacked US military installations in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
Foreign nationals crossing the border from neighbouring countries into the Kurdistan Region of Iraq have been arrested for immigration offences. Prosecuted offenders could face a prison sentence of up to 5 years or fines of several thousand US dollars.
Basra
Protests are common in Basra. Stay alert, monitor media reports and keep up to date with this travel advice.
Land borders
Border crossing points with countries neighbouring Iraq may close with little or no notice.