Iraq is a conservative Islamic country, and this is reflected in what you should wear. Different cities will have differing dress codes based on their level of religious importance and observance.
Iraq has a wide variation in its weather. Summer months are extremely hot and almost unbearable, with temperatures reaching towards 50 degrees and above. Winter months are much cooler and pleasant for travelling. Regardless of the weather, long trousers/pants at all times are what is considered socially appropriate.
Clothing
While there isn’t technically an enforced dress code for men or women, dressing more conservatively is advised. Long trousers/pants are recommended for all, and women shouldn’t wear anything that shows too neck/chest/arms, and certainly no cleavage. 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. For women this will mean wearing a chador (black cloak headscarf style covering), especially when visiting any religious sites.
At night in winter temperatures can be quite cool so a jumper or jacket is recommended.
Footwear
We recommend good shoes for walking around the historical sites. Enclosed shoes are also preferable when exploring places such as Saddam’s palaces as there are many dangerous items such as broken glass found all around.
In warmer months sandals are preferable, and they are also quite convenient when visiting religious sites where you will have to take your shoes off to enter.
Luggage
You can bring big suitcases to Iraq with no issue. If you are on our tour and you are arriving and departing from Baghdad, you will be able to leave a big bag in the hotel if you don’t want to drag it around with you for the entire trip.
Medicines
Pharmacies are available throughout Iraq, however any prescriptions are best brought from home. If you do bring medications, bring the prescription with you. It is unlikely that you will have this checked at the border when entering, however it is required and could result in the medications being confiscated if you don’t have it.
Cash
Foreign cards still will not work throughout the country at card machines or ATMs, which means you must bring in cash for the duration of your tour. USD, Euros and currencies from neighbouring countries like Iran are all able to be exchanged. Notes must be in good condition with no writing or tears.
