Iraq - Country Overview
Abu3oon
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79 slides
Jan 20, 2018
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About This Presentation
Iraq Overview, Iraq Full report, Iraq Oil & Gas, Auxilium Assistance Iraq, War in Iraq
Slide Content
1
IRAQ
Country overview
IRAQ
Country overview
2
3
Risk Summary
The political situation in much of Iraq remains extremely unstable — even though the war was
officially declared as over in December 2011. Travelling there remains extremely dangerous
and strongly discouraged. All foreigners are still in danger of kidnapping, murder, and general
armed violence. Tourism visas for Iraq are not granted at the moment. Sporadic violence can
occur anywhere in Iraq although Iraqi Kurdistan is relatively safe.
Although the northeast provinces which comprise Iraqi Kurdistan can be considered safe for
foreigners, the margins for error are small. While no foreign deaths have occurred in this
province since the 2003 Iraq invasion, many foreign deaths have occurred elsewhere in Iraq.
Note that citizens of Iraqi Kurdistan themselves generally do not leave the province, as their
lives are also in danger (although citizens of Kirkuk are an exception).
If it is necessary to visit, then remain cautious at all times, and consult your embassy before
you leave.
STANDING TRAVEL ADVICE
Iraq is probably the most dangerous region in the Arab World and should be avoided. Visitors
should have prepared for travelling into a war zone.
Even people who have always lived in Iraq and who are uninvolved with political issues are
often subject to kidnapping-for-profit (also often used for political reasons), which can be fatal
if a ransom is not paid. The ransom price is very high and few governments will pay it.
Iraq is beset with numerous problems that make travelling risky and difficult. The security
situation is perilous in just about any area of the country, and continues to deteriorate under
continuing terrorist attacks. Resistance to continuing military occupation, U.S. and UK forces,
and Iraqi military, police or anyone associated with the Iraqi government, as well as increasing
factional and sectarian conflict make street warfare, bombings, and other acts of armed
violence daily occurrences.
The central third of the country is the most volatile; the southern ports are less dangerous,
but only relatively so. However, northern Iraq, or Kurdistan is safe and has suffered from very
little violence since 2003. Major cities, including Baghdad, are fertile grounds for political
upheavals, kidnappings, and other underground activity, so tread lightly. The Kurdish
peshmerga (military) is over 100,000 strong and every road, town, city and even village has
checkpoints going in and out. All non-Kurds are searched thoroughly and occasionally
followed by the internal secret police. However fear not, this is why there is almost no chance
of terrorism in the North. The police are friendly and everyone is happy to
Risk Summary
The political situation in much of Iraq remains extremely unstable — even though the war was
officially declared as over in December 2011. Travelling there remains extremely dangerous
and strongly discouraged. All foreigners are still in danger of kidnapping, murder, and general
armed violence. Tourism visas for Iraq are not granted at the moment. Sporadic violence can
occur anywhere in Iraq although Iraqi Kurdistan is relatively safe.
Although the northeast provinces which comprise Iraqi Kurdistan can be considered safe for
foreigners, the margins for error are small. While no foreign deaths have occurred in this
province since the 2003 Iraq invasion, many foreign deaths have occurred elsewhere in Iraq.
Note that citizens of Iraqi Kurdistan themselves generally do not leave the province, as their
lives are also in danger (although citizens of Kirkuk are an exception).
If it is necessary to visit, then remain cautious at all times, and consult your embassy before
you leave.
STANDING TRAVEL ADVICE
Iraq is probably the most dangerous region in the Arab World and should be avoided. Visitors
should have prepared for travelling into a war zone.
Even people who have always lived in Iraq and who are uninvolved with political issues are
often subject to kidnapping-for-profit (also often used for political reasons), which can be fatal
if a ransom is not paid. The ransom price is very high and few governments will pay it.
Iraq is beset with numerous problems that make travelling risky and difficult. The security
situation is perilous in just about any area of the country, and continues to deteriorate under
continuing terrorist attacks. Resistance to continuing military occupation, U.S. and UK forces,
and Iraqi military, police or anyone associated with the Iraqi government, as well as increasing
factional and sectarian conflict make street warfare, bombings, and other acts of armed
violence daily occurrences.
The central third of the country is the most volatile; the southern ports are less dangerous,
but only relatively so. However, northern Iraq, or Kurdistan is safe and has suffered from very
little violence since 2003. Major cities, including Baghdad, are fertile grounds for political
upheavals, kidnappings, and other underground activity, so tread lightly. The Kurdish
peshmerga (military) is over 100,000 strong and every road, town, city and even village has
checkpoints going in and out. All non-Kurds are searched thoroughly and occasionally
followed by the internal secret police. However fear not, this is why there is almost no chance
of terrorism in the North. The police are friendly and everyone is happy to
4
meet foreigners, especially Americans.
Travelling alone makes you an easy kidnapping target, and is best avoided – if possible travel
with a translator/guard. There are comprehensive private and state security services available
for your personal protection - you are strongly advised to use the available options for your
own safety. If employed in Iraq, consult your employer on how to handle your personal safety.
Independent contractors will usually have security provided by their clients, if no security is
provided you should seriously consider not travelling to Iraq, if you must go you should hire
armed security and get proper training in appropriate protective gear, survival, and weapons.
Be aware that Iraq, like any war zone, has minefields everywhere, do not walk into fields,
especially unmarked ones unless you're absolutely sure that it's safe. In short, do not go
anywhere without escort from the Iraqi army.
RISK ZONES
Except in the Kurdistan region, the threat to foreigners, including Canadians, is very high.
Foreigners are a prime target for criminal and terrorist groups hoping to extort money.
While increasing numbers of international business people travel throughout much of Iraq,
they do so under restricted movement conditions and almost always with close security
protection. Stay in secure, guarded accommodations, travel with close protection teams at all
times and take all necessary security precautions if you decide to travel to Iraq. You are also
strongly advised to consider employing a professional security company and to adhere to their
advice for the duration of your stay and to acquire comprehensive travel and medical
insurance before travelling.
Personal Risk
CRIME
Petty theft is common in Iraq; this includes pick-pocketing in busy areas (e.g. markets), as well
as the theft of money, jewelry, or other valuables from hotel rooms. Historically, carjacking
by armed thieves has been very common, even during daylight hours, and particularly on the
highways from Jordan and Kuwait to Baghdad. Both foreigners - especially dual American-Iraqi
citizens - and Iraqi citizens are targets of kidnapping. Kidnappers often demand money but
have also carried out kidnappings for political/religious reasons. Many hostages have been
killed.
Do not buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the
bootlegs illegal in the United States, if you purchase them you may also be breaking local law.
meet foreigners, especially Americans.
Travelling alone makes you an easy kidnapping target, and is best avoided – if possible travel
with a translator/guard. There are comprehensive private and state security services available
for your personal protection - you are strongly advised to use the available options for your
own safety. If employed in Iraq, consult your employer on how to handle your personal safety.
Independent contractors will usually have security provided by their clients, if no security is
provided you should seriously consider not travelling to Iraq, if you must go you should hire
armed security and get proper training in appropriate protective gear, survival, and weapons.
Be aware that Iraq, like any war zone, has minefields everywhere, do not walk into fields,
especially unmarked ones unless you're absolutely sure that it's safe. In short, do not go
anywhere without escort from the Iraqi army.
RISK ZONES
Except in the Kurdistan region, the threat to foreigners, including Canadians, is very high.
Foreigners are a prime target for criminal and terrorist groups hoping to extort money.
While increasing numbers of international business people travel throughout much of Iraq,
they do so under restricted movement conditions and almost always with close security
protection. Stay in secure, guarded accommodations, travel with close protection teams at all
times and take all necessary security precautions if you decide to travel to Iraq. You are also
strongly advised to consider employing a professional security company and to adhere to their
advice for the duration of your stay and to acquire comprehensive travel and medical
insurance before travelling.
Personal Risk
CRIME
Petty theft is common in Iraq; this includes pick-pocketing in busy areas (e.g. markets), as well
as the theft of money, jewelry, or other valuables from hotel rooms. Historically, carjacking
by armed thieves has been very common, even during daylight hours, and particularly on the
highways from Jordan and Kuwait to Baghdad. Both foreigners - especially dual American-Iraqi
citizens - and Iraqi citizens are targets of kidnapping. Kidnappers often demand money but
have also carried out kidnappings for political/religious reasons. Many hostages have been
killed.
Do not buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the
bootlegs illegal in the United States, if you purchase them you may also be breaking local law.
5
TERRORISM
There is a high threat from terrorism throughout Iraq. However, the Kurdistan region has a
very different security environment to the rest of Iraq and terrorist attacks in the provinces of
Erbil, Sulaymaniyah and Dohuk are infrequent.
There is a wide range of places where attacks can take place. These include residential
compounds, military establishments, oil facilities, public transport, commercial venues,
maritime facilities, airports, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, large crowds, police
stations, party political offices and religious sites/ceremonies.
Methods of attack include shootings, bombings, suicide bombs, vehicle bombs, rockets and
mortars. Terrorists have also kidnapped foreigners, including British nationals.
Foreign nationals, including those of non-Western appearance, are high value targets for
terrorists, insurgents and criminals. Indiscriminate attacks against Iraqi civilian targets also
occur. You should maintain a high level of security awareness.
Although terrorist incidents are less frequent in the Kurdistan region, isolated and infrequent
attacks have occurred. These have usually targeted the Kurdistan Regional Government.
Kidnap
There is a high threat of kidnapping In Iraq. British, nationals have been previous targets.
Individuals have been kidnapped from homes, workplaces and while travelling. Some
hostages have died.
You should regularly reassess your security arrangements and consider carefully any travel
around the country, especially when moving outside the International Zone in Baghdad. Close
security protection is important but doesn’t remove the threat; a number of previous kidnap
victims had security arrangements in place.
Kidnappings can be for financial or political gain, and can be motivated by criminality or
terrorism. The long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive
concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and
releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking.
TERRORISM
There is a high threat from terrorism throughout Iraq. However, the Kurdistan region has a
very different security environment to the rest of Iraq and terrorist attacks in the provinces of
Erbil, Sulaymaniyah and Dohuk are infrequent.
There is a wide range of places where attacks can take place. These include residential
compounds, military establishments, oil facilities, public transport, commercial venues,
maritime facilities, airports, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, large crowds, police
stations, party political offices and religious sites/ceremonies.
Methods of attack include shootings, bombings, suicide bombs, vehicle bombs, rockets and
mortars. Terrorists have also kidnapped foreigners, including British nationals.
Foreign nationals, including those of non-Western appearance, are high value targets for
terrorists, insurgents and criminals. Indiscriminate attacks against Iraqi civilian targets also
occur. You should maintain a high level of security awareness.
Although terrorist incidents are less frequent in the Kurdistan region, isolated and infrequent
attacks have occurred. These have usually targeted the Kurdistan Regional Government.
Kidnap
There is a high threat of kidnapping In Iraq. British, nationals have been previous targets.
Individuals have been kidnapped from homes, workplaces and while travelling. Some
hostages have died.
You should regularly reassess your security arrangements and consider carefully any travel
around the country, especially when moving outside the International Zone in Baghdad. Close
security protection is important but doesn’t remove the threat; a number of previous kidnap
victims had security arrangements in place.
Kidnappings can be for financial or political gain, and can be motivated by criminality or
terrorism. The long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive
concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and
releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking.
6
SOCIAL UNREST
The root cause of the ongoing violence and civil unrest in Iraq are the social, political, and
territorial tensions between the country's Shiite and Sunni Muslims. In terms of religious
philosophy, the two sects hold different beliefs regarding who is the legitimate successor to
the Prophet Mohammad.
Although Sunnis make up approximately 90 percent of the world's Muslims, Shiites hold the
majority in Iraq. As a Sunni, the former dictator Saddam Hussein ensured that Sunni Muslims
in Iraq held political and social dominance. Following the collapse of the Hussein regime, the
majority Shiite population has engaged in the process of forming a new government, while
Sunnis have generally avoided any involvement.
The situation is further complicated by terrorist groups and militia leaders, most notably al-
Qaeda and the powerful Shia Islam cleric Moktada Al-Sadr. Sadr controls the Mahdi Army
militia, a group of anti-American guerillas that numbers approximately 200,000. Recent
reports have suggested that spin-offs of this group have also entered into the conflict. The use
of concealed roadside bombs and snipers has proven particularly deadly to U.S. and coalition
forces in the region.
As of late 2006, the situation in Iraq appeared bleak. Despite some progress on the political
front, the insurgency continued to strike coalition forces, Iraqi police, and rival factions.
Predictions of an all-out civil war pitting ethnic and religious groups against each other did not
come true, though many commentators believe that such an outcome remains a distinct
possibility.
For critics, the "staying the course" alternative proposed by the Bush Administration
represented one of the worst possible strategies. Even those who were not against the
invasion have faulted U.S. actions and accused the Bush administration of failing to reconsider
ineffective policies. The U.S. administration under President Barack Obama set a timetable
that saw all US combat units out by August 31, 2010 and the remainder by the end of 2011.
The continued violence, combined with the ineffectual pace and quality of rebuilding, has
attracted strong criticism. The cost of the war has also been an issue, costing hundreds of
billions of dollars every year from 2003 to 2009.
SOCIAL UNREST
The root cause of the ongoing violence and civil unrest in Iraq are the social, political, and
territorial tensions between the country's Shiite and Sunni Muslims. In terms of religious
philosophy, the two sects hold different beliefs regarding who is the legitimate successor to
the Prophet Mohammad.
Although Sunnis make up approximately 90 percent of the world's Muslims, Shiites hold the
majority in Iraq. As a Sunni, the former dictator Saddam Hussein ensured that Sunni Muslims
in Iraq held political and social dominance. Following the collapse of the Hussein regime, the
majority Shiite population has engaged in the process of forming a new government, while
Sunnis have generally avoided any involvement.
The situation is further complicated by terrorist groups and militia leaders, most notably al-
Qaeda and the powerful Shia Islam cleric Moktada Al-Sadr. Sadr controls the Mahdi Army
militia, a group of anti-American guerillas that numbers approximately 200,000. Recent
reports have suggested that spin-offs of this group have also entered into the conflict. The use
of concealed roadside bombs and snipers has proven particularly deadly to U.S. and coalition
forces in the region.
As of late 2006, the situation in Iraq appeared bleak. Despite some progress on the political
front, the insurgency continued to strike coalition forces, Iraqi police, and rival factions.
Predictions of an all-out civil war pitting ethnic and religious groups against each other did not
come true, though many commentators believe that such an outcome remains a distinct
possibility.
For critics, the "staying the course" alternative proposed by the Bush Administration
represented one of the worst possible strategies. Even those who were not against the
invasion have faulted U.S. actions and accused the Bush administration of failing to reconsider
ineffective policies. The U.S. administration under President Barack Obama set a timetable
that saw all US combat units out by August 31, 2010 and the remainder by the end of 2011.
The continued violence, combined with the ineffectual pace and quality of rebuilding, has
attracted strong criticism. The cost of the war has also been an issue, costing hundreds of
billions of dollars every year from 2003 to 2009.
7
CONFLICT
There is a long and well-studied plan in place for the division of Iraq and the
only thing that is lacking is a pretext for its final implementation. The fall of the regime, the
opening of its borders to mujahideen fighters and the withdrawal of U.S. troops from the
country have prepared the ground for achieving the ultimate goal: the final fragmentation of
its 27 million inhabitants according along confessional lines. It will mark the partition of the
country into Shiite areas (the majority with 61% of total) and Sunni (34%, of which 17%
belongs to the Kurdish minority) and may ultimately lead to the disappearance of both the
Christian and Yazidi minorities ( 4%), already halved over the last 10 years.
The sectarian partition of Iraq has begun: the parties are organized according to their
confession, all balances and distributions of power follow this logic, the subdivisions of
neighborhoods and cities have set the stage for a future psychological and geographical
fragmentation. The media are an active component in this political game: they are in the
frontline when it comes to changing the facts, amplifying exaggerated news, manipulating
events in order to achieve this goal. The latest chapter in this saga is the conflict that has
opened between Sunnis and Shiites, led by the divisions within the government, that have
become almost insurmountable after the Shiite Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki issued an arrest
warrant for Vice-President, Tariq al-Hashemi, a Sunni, accused of financing terrorist groups
and who has since fled to the north, the Kurdish region.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Fire 115
Police 104
Ambulance services 122
Country Stability
POLITICAL SITUATION
At present the situation in Iraq looks bleak. They have,
• An insurgency composed of many groups with different agendas
• Sectarian violence in which the actors are shadowy and the motives are murky
• A political structure that feeds on and strengthens sectarian and ethnic divisions
• Political deadlock and a national reconciliation process that is going nowhere
• State institutions that are under-capacitated or downright dysfunctional
• A government that is ineffective in its primary task of serving the people.
CONFLICT
There is a long and well-studied plan in place for the division of Iraq and the
only thing that is lacking is a pretext for its final implementation. The fall of the regime, the
opening of its borders to mujahideen fighters and the withdrawal of U.S. troops from the
country have prepared the ground for achieving the ultimate goal: the final fragmentation of
its 27 million inhabitants according along confessional lines. It will mark the partition of the
country into Shiite areas (the majority with 61% of total) and Sunni (34%, of which 17%
belongs to the Kurdish minority) and may ultimately lead to the disappearance of both the
Christian and Yazidi minorities ( 4%), already halved over the last 10 years.
The sectarian partition of Iraq has begun: the parties are organized according to their
confession, all balances and distributions of power follow this logic, the subdivisions of
neighborhoods and cities have set the stage for a future psychological and geographical
fragmentation. The media are an active component in this political game: they are in the
frontline when it comes to changing the facts, amplifying exaggerated news, manipulating
events in order to achieve this goal. The latest chapter in this saga is the conflict that has
opened between Sunnis and Shiites, led by the divisions within the government, that have
become almost insurmountable after the Shiite Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki issued an arrest
warrant for Vice-President, Tariq al-Hashemi, a Sunni, accused of financing terrorist groups
and who has since fled to the north, the Kurdish region.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Fire 115
Police 104
Ambulance services 122
Country Stability
POLITICAL SITUATION
At present the situation in Iraq looks bleak. They have,
• An insurgency composed of many groups with different agendas
• Sectarian violence in which the actors are shadowy and the motives are murky
• A political structure that feeds on and strengthens sectarian and ethnic divisions
• Political deadlock and a national reconciliation process that is going nowhere
• State institutions that are under-capacitated or downright dysfunctional
• A government that is ineffective in its primary task of serving the people.
8
More specifically, revision of the constitution is a central component of national
reconciliation. The present constitution is not conducive to a viable state and it
enshrines many of the problems that plague Iraqi politics now. It has to be redrafted in terms
of individual articles and in terms of the structure of the state it projects. Additionally, the
constitution was written by the Shi’a and the Kurdish parties; the Sunnis were invited into the
process late and did not have a significant input. The Sunnis have deep fears about aspects of
the constitution, and their concerns must be addressed.
RULE OF LAW
The politics of Iraq takes place in a framework of a federal parliamentary representative
democratic republic. It is a multi-party system whereby the executive power is exercised by
the Prime Minister of the Council of Ministers as the head of government, as well as the
President of Iraq, and legislative power is vested in the Council of Representatives and the
Federation Council.
The current Prime Minister of Iraq is Nouri al-Maliki, who holds most of the executive
authority and appoints the Council of Ministers, which acts as a cabinet and/or government.
The current Presidency Council, a transitional replacement for the President of Iraq who
serves largely as a figurehead with few powers, is composed of Jalal Talabani, Tariq al-Hashimi,
and Khodair al-Khozaei.
CORRUPTION
Corruption in Iraq is at an all-time high, according to a recent US government report, and
Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki is demonstrating increasingly authoritarian behavior, even as
US support continues to flow to Baghdad.
Corruption remains one of the main obstacles to democratic progress and development in
Iraq, with almost $800 million flowing out of the country illegally each week, according to a
U.S. watchdog's quarterly report to Congress Tuesday.
The report by the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction says the estimate on the
illegal outflow was provided in September by the head of the Supreme Audit Board at the
time, Abdul-Baset Turki, who discovered that 80% of the $1 billion purchased every week in
foreign currency auctions supervised by the Central Bank of Iraq was being transferred out of
the country under false pretenses.
More specifically, revision of the constitution is a central component of national
reconciliation. The present constitution is not conducive to a viable state and it
enshrines many of the problems that plague Iraqi politics now. It has to be redrafted in terms
of individual articles and in terms of the structure of the state it projects. Additionally, the
constitution was written by the Shi’a and the Kurdish parties; the Sunnis were invited into the
process late and did not have a significant input. The Sunnis have deep fears about aspects of
the constitution, and their concerns must be addressed.
RULE OF LAW
The politics of Iraq takes place in a framework of a federal parliamentary representative
democratic republic. It is a multi-party system whereby the executive power is exercised by
the Prime Minister of the Council of Ministers as the head of government, as well as the
President of Iraq, and legislative power is vested in the Council of Representatives and the
Federation Council.
The current Prime Minister of Iraq is Nouri al-Maliki, who holds most of the executive
authority and appoints the Council of Ministers, which acts as a cabinet and/or government.
The current Presidency Council, a transitional replacement for the President of Iraq who
serves largely as a figurehead with few powers, is composed of Jalal Talabani, Tariq al-Hashimi,
and Khodair al-Khozaei.
CORRUPTION
Corruption in Iraq is at an all-time high, according to a recent US government report, and
Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki is demonstrating increasingly authoritarian behavior, even as
US support continues to flow to Baghdad.
Corruption remains one of the main obstacles to democratic progress and development in
Iraq, with almost $800 million flowing out of the country illegally each week, according to a
U.S. watchdog's quarterly report to Congress Tuesday.
The report by the Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction says the estimate on the
illegal outflow was provided in September by the head of the Supreme Audit Board at the
time, Abdul-Baset Turki, who discovered that 80% of the $1 billion purchased every week in
foreign currency auctions supervised by the Central Bank of Iraq was being transferred out of
the country under false pretenses.
9
Many inside Iraq believe the charges are motivated by Prime Minister Nouri al-
Maliki's desire for more control over the central bank's activities. Mr. Shabibi
was widely regarded as a politically independent technocrat who succeeded in keeping the
Iraqi dinar stable and inflation and interest rates low since becoming bank governor in 2003
after the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq.
NATURAL DISASTERS
Iraq is subject to sandstorms and dust storms as well as flooding caused by heavy rains.
The weather is very dry and hot from May to October.
RECENT HISTORY
Iraq is the birthplace of many of the Earth's oldest civilizations, including the Babylonians and
the Assyrians. A part of the Ottoman Empire from 1534, the Treaty of Sèvres brought the area
under British control in 1918. Iraq gained independence in 1932. On 14 July 1958, the long-
time Hashemite monarchy was overthrown in a coup led by Abdul Kassem that paved way to
radical political reforms, including the legalisation of political parties such as the Ba'ath and
the Communist Party, both key players in the coup (also called the 14 July Revolution).
Following this Revolution, the Soviet Union gradually became its main arms and commercial
supplier.
In February 1963, Kassem was overthrown and killed in a second coup that brought the Ba'ath
Party into power. Internal divisions would follow for the next five years, until another coup on
17 July 1968 led by Ahmad Hassan al-Bakr (with Communist support) stabilised the party.
Relations between the Communists and the Ba'athists ranged from mutual cooperation to
violent mistrust, culminating in the purge of Communists from the army and the government
by 1978, causing a temporary rift with the Soviet Union. On 16 July 1979, Bakr resigned and
was succeded by right-hand man Saddam Hussein, who carefully purged his enemies and
became a dictator almost overnight.
The next twenty-five years took a grinding toll on the country. A long war with neighbouring
Iran in the 1980s cost hundreds of thousands of lives and billions of dollars. The invasion of
Kuwait in 1990 and subsequent Gulf War caused further casualties, followed by civil war inside
the country and a decade of international sanctions.
Iraq was invaded in 2003 by a mainly U.S/UK-led coalition of forces, who removed Saddam
Hussein from power. As of 2012, no foreign troops remain in Iraq.
Many inside Iraq believe the charges are motivated by Prime Minister Nouri al-
Maliki's desire for more control over the central bank's activities. Mr. Shabibi
was widely regarded as a politically independent technocrat who succeeded in keeping the
Iraqi dinar stable and inflation and interest rates low since becoming bank governor in 2003
after the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq.
NATURAL DISASTERS
Iraq is subject to sandstorms and dust storms as well as flooding caused by heavy rains.
The weather is very dry and hot from May to October.
RECENT HISTORY
Iraq is the birthplace of many of the Earth's oldest civilizations, including the Babylonians and
the Assyrians. A part of the Ottoman Empire from 1534, the Treaty of Sèvres brought the area
under British control in 1918. Iraq gained independence in 1932. On 14 July 1958, the long-
time Hashemite monarchy was overthrown in a coup led by Abdul Kassem that paved way to
radical political reforms, including the legalisation of political parties such as the Ba'ath and
the Communist Party, both key players in the coup (also called the 14 July Revolution).
Following this Revolution, the Soviet Union gradually became its main arms and commercial
supplier.
In February 1963, Kassem was overthrown and killed in a second coup that brought the Ba'ath
Party into power. Internal divisions would follow for the next five years, until another coup on
17 July 1968 led by Ahmad Hassan al-Bakr (with Communist support) stabilised the party.
Relations between the Communists and the Ba'athists ranged from mutual cooperation to
violent mistrust, culminating in the purge of Communists from the army and the government
by 1978, causing a temporary rift with the Soviet Union. On 16 July 1979, Bakr resigned and
was succeded by right-hand man Saddam Hussein, who carefully purged his enemies and
became a dictator almost overnight.
The next twenty-five years took a grinding toll on the country. A long war with neighbouring
Iran in the 1980s cost hundreds of thousands of lives and billions of dollars. The invasion of
Kuwait in 1990 and subsequent Gulf War caused further casualties, followed by civil war inside
the country and a decade of international sanctions.
Iraq was invaded in 2003 by a mainly U.S/UK-led coalition of forces, who removed Saddam
Hussein from power. As of 2012, no foreign troops remain in Iraq.
10
Before You Go
Routine Medical Care
All travelers should visit either their personal physician or a travel health clinic 4-8 weeks
before departure.
Malaria:Â Prophylaxis with chloroquine, Lariam (mefloquine), Malarone
(atovaquone/proguanil), doxycyline, or primaquine is recommended for for Basrah province
and for areas at altitudes below 1500 m (4921 ft) in the provinces of Duhok, Erbil, Ninawa,
Sulaimaninya [Add Details here]
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A Recommended for all travelers
Typhoid Recommended for all travelers
Polio One-time booster recommended for any adult traveler who
completed the childhood series but never had polio vaccine as an
adult
Yellow fever Required for all travelers arriving from a yellow-fever-infected area
in Africa or the Americas. Not recommended otherwise.
Hepatitis B Recommended for all travelers
Rabies For travelers spending a lot of time outdoors, or at high risk for
animal bites, or involved in any activities that might bring them into
direct contact with bats
Measles, mumps,
rubella (MMR)
Two doses recommended for all travelers born after 1956, if not
previously given
Tetanus-diphtheria Revaccination recommended every 10 years
The following are the recommended vaccinations for Iraq:
Before You Go
Routine Medical Care
All travelers should visit either their personal physician or a travel health clinic 4-8 weeks
before departure.
Malaria:Â Prophylaxis with chloroquine, Lariam (mefloquine), Malarone
(atovaquone/proguanil), doxycyline, or primaquine is recommended for for Basrah province
and for areas at altitudes below 1500 m (4921 ft) in the provinces of Duhok, Erbil, Ninawa,
Sulaimaninya [Add Details here]
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A Recommended for all travelers
Typhoid Recommended for all travelers
Polio One-time booster recommended for any adult traveler who
completed the childhood series but never had polio vaccine as an
adult
Yellow fever Required for all travelers arriving from a yellow-fever-infected area
in Africa or the Americas. Not recommended otherwise.
Hepatitis B Recommended for all travelers
Rabies For travelers spending a lot of time outdoors, or at high risk for
animal bites, or involved in any activities that might bring them into
direct contact with bats
Measles, mumps,
rubella (MMR)
Two doses recommended for all travelers born after 1956, if not
previously given
Tetanus-diphtheria Revaccination recommended every 10 years
The following are the recommended vaccinations for Iraq:
11
Hepatitis A
Is recommended for all travelers over one year of age. It should be given at least
two weeks (preferably four weeks or more) before departure. A booster should be given 6-12
months later to confer long-term immunity. Two vaccines are currently available in the United
States: VAQTA and Havrix. Both are well-tolerated. Side-effects, which are generally mild, may
include soreness at the injection site, headache, and malaise.
Older adults, immune compromised persons, and those with chronic liver disease or other
chronic medical conditions who have less than two weeks before departure should receive a
single intramuscular dose of immune globulin (0.02 mL/kg) at a separate anatomic injection
site in addition to the initial dose of vaccine. Travelers who are less than one year of age or
allergic to a vaccine component should receive a single intramuscular dose of immune globulin
in the place of vaccine.
Typhoid vaccine
Is recommended for all travelers. It is generally given in an oral form (Vivotif Berna) consisting
of four capsules taken on alternate days until completed. The capsules should be kept
refrigerated and taken with cool liquid. Side-effects are uncommon and may include
abdominal discomfort, nausea, rash or hives. The alternative is an injectable polysaccharide
vaccine, given as a single dose. Adverse reactions, which are uncommon, may include
discomfort at the injection site, fever and headache. The oral vaccine is approved for travelers
at least six years old, whereas the injectable vaccine is approved for those over age two. There
are no data concerning the safety of typhoid vaccine during pregnancy. The injectable vaccine
(Typhim Vi) is probably preferable to the oral vaccine in pregnant and immune compromised
travelers.
Polio vaccine
Is recommended, because of widespread transmission of wild poliovirus in Iraq. Any adult who
received the recommended childhood immunizations but never had a booster as an adult
should be given a single dose of inactivated polio vaccine. All children should be up-to-date in
their polio immunizations and any adult who never completed the initial series of
immunizations should do so before departure. Side-effects are uncommon and may include
pain at the injection site. Since inactivated polio vaccine includes trace amounts of
streptomycin, neomycin and polymyxin B, individuals allergic to these antibiotics should not
receive the vaccine.
Hepatitis B vaccine
Is recommended for all travelers if not previously vaccinated. Two vaccines are currently
licensed in the United States: Recombivax HB and Engerix-B. A full series consists of three
intramuscular doses given at 0, 1 and 6 months. Engerix-B is also approved for administration
at 0, 1, 2, and 12 months, which may be appropriate for travelers departing in less than 6
months. Side-effects are generally mild and may include discomfort at the injection site and
low-grade fever. Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) occur rarely.
Hepatitis A
Is recommended for all travelers over one year of age. It should be given at least
two weeks (preferably four weeks or more) before departure. A booster should be given 6-12
months later to confer long-term immunity. Two vaccines are currently available in the United
States: VAQTA and Havrix. Both are well-tolerated. Side-effects, which are generally mild, may
include soreness at the injection site, headache, and malaise.
Older adults, immune compromised persons, and those with chronic liver disease or other
chronic medical conditions who have less than two weeks before departure should receive a
single intramuscular dose of immune globulin (0.02 mL/kg) at a separate anatomic injection
site in addition to the initial dose of vaccine. Travelers who are less than one year of age or
allergic to a vaccine component should receive a single intramuscular dose of immune globulin
in the place of vaccine.
Typhoid vaccine
Is recommended for all travelers. It is generally given in an oral form (Vivotif Berna) consisting
of four capsules taken on alternate days until completed. The capsules should be kept
refrigerated and taken with cool liquid. Side-effects are uncommon and may include
abdominal discomfort, nausea, rash or hives. The alternative is an injectable polysaccharide
vaccine, given as a single dose. Adverse reactions, which are uncommon, may include
discomfort at the injection site, fever and headache. The oral vaccine is approved for travelers
at least six years old, whereas the injectable vaccine is approved for those over age two. There
are no data concerning the safety of typhoid vaccine during pregnancy. The injectable vaccine
(Typhim Vi) is probably preferable to the oral vaccine in pregnant and immune compromised
travelers.
Polio vaccine
Is recommended, because of widespread transmission of wild poliovirus in Iraq. Any adult who
received the recommended childhood immunizations but never had a booster as an adult
should be given a single dose of inactivated polio vaccine. All children should be up-to-date in
their polio immunizations and any adult who never completed the initial series of
immunizations should do so before departure. Side-effects are uncommon and may include
pain at the injection site. Since inactivated polio vaccine includes trace amounts of
streptomycin, neomycin and polymyxin B, individuals allergic to these antibiotics should not
receive the vaccine.
Hepatitis B vaccine
Is recommended for all travelers if not previously vaccinated. Two vaccines are currently
licensed in the United States: Recombivax HB and Engerix-B. A full series consists of three
intramuscular doses given at 0, 1 and 6 months. Engerix-B is also approved for administration
at 0, 1, 2, and 12 months, which may be appropriate for travelers departing in less than 6
months. Side-effects are generally mild and may include discomfort at the injection site and
low-grade fever. Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) occur rarely.
12
Rabies vaccine
Is recommended for travelers spending a lot of time outdoors, for travelers at
high risk for animal bites, such as veterinarians and animal handlers, for long-term travelers
and expatriates, and for travelers involved in any activities that might bring them into direct
contact with bats. Children are considered at higher risk because they tend to play with
animals, may receive more severe bites, or may not report bites. A complete preexposure
series consists of three doses of vaccine injected into the deltoid muscle on days 0, 7, and 21
or 28. Side-effects may include pain at the injection site, headache, nausea, abdominal pain,
muscle aches, dizziness, or allergic reactions.
Any animal bite or scratch should be thoroughly cleaned with large amounts of soap and water
and local health authorities should be contacted immediately for possible post-exposure
treatment, whether or not the person has been immunized against rabies.
Tetanus-diphtheria vaccine
Is recommended for all travelers who have not received a tetanus-diphtheria immunization
within the last 10 years.
Measles-mumps-rubella vaccine:
Two doses are recommended (if not previously given) for all travelers born after 1956, unless
blood tests show immunity. Many adults born after 1956 and before 1970 received only one
vaccination against measles, mumps, and rubella as children and should be given a second
dose before travel. MMR vaccine should not be given to pregnant or severely immune
compromised individuals.
Cholera vaccine
Is not generally recommended, even though cholera occurs in Iraq, because most travelers
are at low risk for infection. Two oral vaccines have recently been developed: Orochol
(Mutacol), licensed in Canada and Australia, and Dukoral, licensed in Canada, Australia, and
the European Union. These vaccines, where available, are recommended only for high-risk
individuals, such as relief workers, health professionals, and those traveling to remote areas
where cholera epidemics are occurring and there is limited access to medical care. The only
cholera vaccine approved for use in the United States is no longer manufactured or sold, due
to low efficacy and frequent side-effects.
Yellow fever vaccine
Is required for all travelers arriving from a yellow-fever-infected country in Africa or the
Americas, but is not recommended or required otherwise. Yellow fever vaccine must be
administered at an approved yellow fever vaccination center, which will give each vaccinee a
fully validated International Certificate of Vaccination. Yellow fever vaccine should not in
general be given to those younger than nine months of age, pregnant, immune compromised,
or allergic to eggs.
Rabies vaccine
Is recommended for travelers spending a lot of time outdoors, for travelers at
high risk for animal bites, such as veterinarians and animal handlers, for long-term travelers
and expatriates, and for travelers involved in any activities that might bring them into direct
contact with bats. Children are considered at higher risk because they tend to play with
animals, may receive more severe bites, or may not report bites. A complete preexposure
series consists of three doses of vaccine injected into the deltoid muscle on days 0, 7, and 21
or 28. Side-effects may include pain at the injection site, headache, nausea, abdominal pain,
muscle aches, dizziness, or allergic reactions.
Any animal bite or scratch should be thoroughly cleaned with large amounts of soap and water
and local health authorities should be contacted immediately for possible post-exposure
treatment, whether or not the person has been immunized against rabies.
Tetanus-diphtheria vaccine
Is recommended for all travelers who have not received a tetanus-diphtheria immunization
within the last 10 years.
Measles-mumps-rubella vaccine:
Two doses are recommended (if not previously given) for all travelers born after 1956, unless
blood tests show immunity. Many adults born after 1956 and before 1970 received only one
vaccination against measles, mumps, and rubella as children and should be given a second
dose before travel. MMR vaccine should not be given to pregnant or severely immune
compromised individuals.
Cholera vaccine
Is not generally recommended, even though cholera occurs in Iraq, because most travelers
are at low risk for infection. Two oral vaccines have recently been developed: Orochol
(Mutacol), licensed in Canada and Australia, and Dukoral, licensed in Canada, Australia, and
the European Union. These vaccines, where available, are recommended only for high-risk
individuals, such as relief workers, health professionals, and those traveling to remote areas
where cholera epidemics are occurring and there is limited access to medical care. The only
cholera vaccine approved for use in the United States is no longer manufactured or sold, due
to low efficacy and frequent side-effects.
Yellow fever vaccine
Is required for all travelers arriving from a yellow-fever-infected country in Africa or the
Americas, but is not recommended or required otherwise. Yellow fever vaccine must be
administered at an approved yellow fever vaccination center, which will give each vaccinee a
fully validated International Certificate of Vaccination. Yellow fever vaccine should not in
general be given to those younger than nine months of age, pregnant, immune compromised,
or allergic to eggs.
13
Standard of Care
Emergency Response
Always call Auxilium whenever medical care or advice is required, especially in the case of
an emergency.
Most of the hospitals are in very bad and deteriorated conditions. The emergency medical
services suffer from neglect and negligence, whether because of lack of staff or because of
the failure to provide and equip hospitals with ambulances to transport the sick and injured
people. They also lack the equipment and medical devices to rescue the sick and manage the
urgent medical cases.
Standard of Health Care
Despite some recent improvements, Iraq's health-care services are still struggling to cope.
While health-care facilities have been rebuilt in most urban centers, facilities in rural and
remote areas remain in dire condition. Facilities already coping with a poor supply of
electricity or water frequently also have to deal with unreliable sewage or air-cooling systems
and with inadequate solid-waste disposal. Equipment is often old and poorly maintained, and
sometimes is not operated correctly.
Poor hygiene levels in many facilities have a severe impact on the quality of care delivered.
Frequently, minimum standards of nursing, sterilization and waste management are not
respected owing to a lack of resources. Substandard care is particularly worrisome when the
patients are trauma victims, pregnant women or children, as it leads to high rates of infection
and frequent ill-health. Medical and paramedical staff report that even minor accidents can
sometimes be fatal because of inappropriate care. The number of beds in specialized services
such as intensive care and dialysis units is insufficient, and shortages of trained nurses and
paramedical staff oblige hospitals to rely on relatives to provide the patients with care.
Paying for Health Care
Patients must pay cash for treatment at the time of service. Some international organizations
have arranged with various hospitals and doctors to be billed for the medical treatment of
their staff.
Do not defer medical treatment because of financial concerns. Contact Auxilium, and if our
terms allow, we will make financial arrangements on your behalf.
Standard of Care
Emergency Response
Always call Auxilium whenever medical care or advice is required, especially in the case of
an emergency.
Most of the hospitals are in very bad and deteriorated conditions. The emergency medical
services suffer from neglect and negligence, whether because of lack of staff or because of
the failure to provide and equip hospitals with ambulances to transport the sick and injured
people. They also lack the equipment and medical devices to rescue the sick and manage the
urgent medical cases.
Standard of Health Care
Despite some recent improvements, Iraq's health-care services are still struggling to cope.
While health-care facilities have been rebuilt in most urban centers, facilities in rural and
remote areas remain in dire condition. Facilities already coping with a poor supply of
electricity or water frequently also have to deal with unreliable sewage or air-cooling systems
and with inadequate solid-waste disposal. Equipment is often old and poorly maintained, and
sometimes is not operated correctly.
Poor hygiene levels in many facilities have a severe impact on the quality of care delivered.
Frequently, minimum standards of nursing, sterilization and waste management are not
respected owing to a lack of resources. Substandard care is particularly worrisome when the
patients are trauma victims, pregnant women or children, as it leads to high rates of infection
and frequent ill-health. Medical and paramedical staff report that even minor accidents can
sometimes be fatal because of inappropriate care. The number of beds in specialized services
such as intensive care and dialysis units is insufficient, and shortages of trained nurses and
paramedical staff oblige hospitals to rely on relatives to provide the patients with care.
Paying for Health Care
Patients must pay cash for treatment at the time of service. Some international organizations
have arranged with various hospitals and doctors to be billed for the medical treatment of
their staff.
Do not defer medical treatment because of financial concerns. Contact Auxilium, and if our
terms allow, we will make financial arrangements on your behalf.
14
Dental Care
For years, Iraq has been striving to raise awareness and advance solutions when
it comes to improving access to dental care. Dentists are the leading advocates for improving
access to dental care. It is a disgrace that so many Iraqis, both kids and adults, still lack access
to basic oral health care. This is why oral health care needs to be a priority because it is just
as important as non-oral health. Iraq needs to develop access to dental care solutions that
work in our country.
Although Iraq has been producing dental, oral health and surgery professionals, there is a
shortage of dental specialists in the country. Hence, there is bad need for dentists in the
country as a whole. This requires a curriculum which is designed to lead the college towards
finding solutions for the community problems, and equip the students with self-directed
learning skills.
Blood Supplies
Health Ministry is working to improve the emergency health response capacity of the
Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), with funds provided through the World Bank Iraq Trust
Fund to the KRG Ministry of Health.
Activities include the design and construction or rehabilitation of blood banks and Emergency
Response Centers in Erbil, Sulaymaniyah and Dohuk.
Medication Availability
Travelers' diarrhea is the most common travel-related ailment. The cornerstone of prevention
is food and water precautions, as outlined below. All travelers should bring along an antibiotic
and an antidiarrheal drug to be started promptly if significant diarrhea occurs, defined as
three or more loose stools in an 8-hour period or five or more loose stools in a 24-hour period,
especially if associated with nausea, vomiting, cramps, fever or blood in the stool. A quinolone
antibiotic is usually prescribed: either ciprofloxacin (Cipro)(PDF) 500 mg twice daily or
levofloxacin (Levaquin) (PDF) 500 mg once daily for a total of three days. Quinolones are
generally well-tolerated, but occasionally cause sun sensitivity and should not be given to
children, pregnant women, or anyone with a history of quinolone allergy. Alternative
regimens include a three day course of rifaximin (Xifaxan) 200 mg three times daily or
azithromycin (Zithromax) 500 mg once daily. Rifaximin should not be used by those with fever
or bloody stools and is not approved for pregnant women or those under age 12. Azithromycin
should be avoided in those allergic to erythromycin or related antibiotics. An antidiarrheal
drug such as loperamide (Imodium) or diphenoxylate (Lomotil) should be taken as needed to
slow the frequency of stools, but not enough to stop the bowel movements
Dental Care
For years, Iraq has been striving to raise awareness and advance solutions when
it comes to improving access to dental care. Dentists are the leading advocates for improving
access to dental care. It is a disgrace that so many Iraqis, both kids and adults, still lack access
to basic oral health care. This is why oral health care needs to be a priority because it is just
as important as non-oral health. Iraq needs to develop access to dental care solutions that
work in our country.
Although Iraq has been producing dental, oral health and surgery professionals, there is a
shortage of dental specialists in the country. Hence, there is bad need for dentists in the
country as a whole. This requires a curriculum which is designed to lead the college towards
finding solutions for the community problems, and equip the students with self-directed
learning skills.
Blood Supplies
Health Ministry is working to improve the emergency health response capacity of the
Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), with funds provided through the World Bank Iraq Trust
Fund to the KRG Ministry of Health.
Activities include the design and construction or rehabilitation of blood banks and Emergency
Response Centers in Erbil, Sulaymaniyah and Dohuk.
Medication Availability
Travelers' diarrhea is the most common travel-related ailment. The cornerstone of prevention
is food and water precautions, as outlined below. All travelers should bring along an antibiotic
and an antidiarrheal drug to be started promptly if significant diarrhea occurs, defined as
three or more loose stools in an 8-hour period or five or more loose stools in a 24-hour period,
especially if associated with nausea, vomiting, cramps, fever or blood in the stool. A quinolone
antibiotic is usually prescribed: either ciprofloxacin (Cipro)(PDF) 500 mg twice daily or
levofloxacin (Levaquin) (PDF) 500 mg once daily for a total of three days. Quinolones are
generally well-tolerated, but occasionally cause sun sensitivity and should not be given to
children, pregnant women, or anyone with a history of quinolone allergy. Alternative
regimens include a three day course of rifaximin (Xifaxan) 200 mg three times daily or
azithromycin (Zithromax) 500 mg once daily. Rifaximin should not be used by those with fever
or bloody stools and is not approved for pregnant women or those under age 12. Azithromycin
should be avoided in those allergic to erythromycin or related antibiotics. An antidiarrheal
drug such as loperamide (Imodium) or diphenoxylate (Lomotil) should be taken as needed to
slow the frequency of stools, but not enough to stop the bowel movements
15
completely. Diphenoxylate (Lomotil) and loperamide (Imodium) should not be
given to children under age two.
Most cases of travelers' diarrhea are mild and do not require either antibiotics
or antidiarrheal drugs. Adequate fluid intake is essential.
If diarrhea is severe or bloody, or if fever occurs with shaking chills, or if abdominal pain
becomes marked, or if diarrhea persists for more than 72 hours, medical attention should be
sought.
Though effective, antibiotics are not recommended prophylactically (i.e. to prevent diarrhea
before it occurs) because of the risk of adverse effects, though this approach may be
warranted in special situations, such as immune compromised travelers.
Clinics & Hospitals
In general, the private clinics in Baghdad provide better care than the public facilities, but at
a higher price. Most expatriates go to either Al-Hayat Hospital (52 Street, Karada), Al-Rahebat
(Karada Inside Street, Karada), or Karkh Hospital for Surgery. None of the private hospitals
have emergency rooms.
Medical care is extremely limited. Many hospitals are not operational and shortages of
essential supplies are common. Those with serious medical problems should be evacuated to
a country with state-of-the art medical facilities. However, because the Baghdad International
Airport has limited operations for security reasons, air evacuation may be difficult or
impossible to arrange.
Food & Water
Food and Water Precautions
Do not drink tap water unless it has been boiled, filtered, or chemically disinfected. Do not
drink un-bottled beverages or drinks with ice. Do not eat fruits or vegetables unless they have
been peeled or cooked. Avoid cooked foods that are no longer piping hot. Cooked foods that
have been left at room temperature are particularly hazardous. Avoid unpasteurized milk and
any products that might have been made from unpasteurized milk, such as ice cream. Avoid
food and beverages obtained from street vendors. Do not eat raw or undercooked meat or
fish.
completely. Diphenoxylate (Lomotil) and loperamide (Imodium) should not be
given to children under age two.
Most cases of travelers' diarrhea are mild and do not require either antibiotics
or antidiarrheal drugs. Adequate fluid intake is essential.
If diarrhea is severe or bloody, or if fever occurs with shaking chills, or if abdominal pain
becomes marked, or if diarrhea persists for more than 72 hours, medical attention should be
sought.
Though effective, antibiotics are not recommended prophylactically (i.e. to prevent diarrhea
before it occurs) because of the risk of adverse effects, though this approach may be
warranted in special situations, such as immune compromised travelers.
Clinics & Hospitals
In general, the private clinics in Baghdad provide better care than the public facilities, but at
a higher price. Most expatriates go to either Al-Hayat Hospital (52 Street, Karada), Al-Rahebat
(Karada Inside Street, Karada), or Karkh Hospital for Surgery. None of the private hospitals
have emergency rooms.
Medical care is extremely limited. Many hospitals are not operational and shortages of
essential supplies are common. Those with serious medical problems should be evacuated to
a country with state-of-the art medical facilities. However, because the Baghdad International
Airport has limited operations for security reasons, air evacuation may be difficult or
impossible to arrange.
Food & Water
Food and Water Precautions
Do not drink tap water unless it has been boiled, filtered, or chemically disinfected. Do not
drink un-bottled beverages or drinks with ice. Do not eat fruits or vegetables unless they have
been peeled or cooked. Avoid cooked foods that are no longer piping hot. Cooked foods that
have been left at room temperature are particularly hazardous. Avoid unpasteurized milk and
any products that might have been made from unpasteurized milk, such as ice cream. Avoid
food and beverages obtained from street vendors. Do not eat raw or undercooked meat or
fish.
16
All travelers should bring along an antibiotic and an antidiarrheal drug to be
started promptly if significant diarrhea occurs, defined as three or more loose
stools in an 8-hour period or five or more loose stools in a 24-hour period,
especially if accompanied by nausea, vomiting, cramps, fever or blood in the
stool. Antibiotics which have been shown to be effective include ciprofloxacin (Cipro),
levofloxacin (Levaquin), rifaximin (Xifaxan), or azithromycin (Zithromax). Either loperamide
(Imodium) or diphenoxylate (Lomotil) should be taken in addition to the antibiotic to reduce
diarrhea and prevent dehydration.
If diarrhea is severe or bloody, or if fever occurs with shaking chills, or if abdominal pain
becomes marked, or if diarrhea persists for more than 72 hours, medical attention should be
sought.
Water and Beverages
Water Supply and Sanitation in Iraq is characterized by poor water and service quality.
Soft drinks and other beverages may or may not contain Cryptosporidium (Crypto) parasites.
You need to know how they were prepared to know if they might contain Crypto
Visa Information
Who requires a visa?
Any foreign national who wishes to enter Iraq for leisure, employment, mass media, business,
diplomatic function, investment, studies, permanent residency, etc. is required to obtain the
necessary requirements and apply for a visa from the Iraqi Embassy or Consulate in their
countries of current residence.
Visas are granted to the following categories:
• Non-Iraqi spouses of Iraqi nationals are required to present documents proving such
relationships.
• Students in Iraq are required to show documents certifying their admission or
continuing studies in Iraq universities, educational institutes and schools.
• All official delegations from different nationals visiting Iraq.
• Truck drivers are required to show documents certifying their transport of products
and goods to Iraq upon request by an official Iraqi company or authority with
operations in Iraq.
• Diplomatic personnel and workers together with their families who have missions in
Iraq including other Arab, regional and international Iraq-accredited groups.
• Journalists and public media personnel are required to submit the formal application.
All travelers should bring along an antibiotic and an antidiarrheal drug to be
started promptly if significant diarrhea occurs, defined as three or more loose
stools in an 8-hour period or five or more loose stools in a 24-hour period,
especially if accompanied by nausea, vomiting, cramps, fever or blood in the
stool. Antibiotics which have been shown to be effective include ciprofloxacin (Cipro),
levofloxacin (Levaquin), rifaximin (Xifaxan), or azithromycin (Zithromax). Either loperamide
(Imodium) or diphenoxylate (Lomotil) should be taken in addition to the antibiotic to reduce
diarrhea and prevent dehydration.
If diarrhea is severe or bloody, or if fever occurs with shaking chills, or if abdominal pain
becomes marked, or if diarrhea persists for more than 72 hours, medical attention should be
sought.
Water and Beverages
Water Supply and Sanitation in Iraq is characterized by poor water and service quality.
Soft drinks and other beverages may or may not contain Cryptosporidium (Crypto) parasites.
You need to know how they were prepared to know if they might contain Crypto
Visa Information
Who requires a visa?
Any foreign national who wishes to enter Iraq for leisure, employment, mass media, business,
diplomatic function, investment, studies, permanent residency, etc. is required to obtain the
necessary requirements and apply for a visa from the Iraqi Embassy or Consulate in their
countries of current residence.
Visas are granted to the following categories:
• Non-Iraqi spouses of Iraqi nationals are required to present documents proving such
relationships.
• Students in Iraq are required to show documents certifying their admission or
continuing studies in Iraq universities, educational institutes and schools.
• All official delegations from different nationals visiting Iraq.
• Truck drivers are required to show documents certifying their transport of products
and goods to Iraq upon request by an official Iraqi company or authority with
operations in Iraq.
• Diplomatic personnel and workers together with their families who have missions in
Iraq including other Arab, regional and international Iraq-accredited groups.
• Journalists and public media personnel are required to submit the formal application.
17
• Businessmen and investors providing sufficient evidence of official invitations
and relations with Iraqi authorities, or being introduced as such by ministries of
foreign affairs in their country of residence. The chambers of commerce will
also need to supply appropriate letters.
• Citizens of Coalition nations joining the multinational forces and other member
countries of over 50 troops in the multinational force (UK, USA, Australia, Italy,
Holland, South Korea, Japan and Poland). Exceptions are made for holders of service
or diplomatic passports, official delegations and subcontractors who are not required
entry visas.
• NGO members provided that the official Iraqi authority submits a letter to the ministry
of foreign affairs confirming its relation with such organizations.
What documents will be required?
Conditions for Granting Visas:
1. An applicant for visa must hold a passport valid for at least six months.
2. An application form must be filled out.
3. An applicant for visa must be able to meet his living costs during his stay in the Republic of
Iraq.
4. An applicant should also present a medical document proving his safety from
communicable diseases; otherwise, he is subject to the effective rules and instructions on
health safety.
Time required to issue visa
Visas are usually processed in 2 to 4 weeks. Rush and Emergency service may be available for
additional fees.
How long is the visa valid for?
At the present time the Embassy of Iraq issues only a single entry visa valid 3 months from the
date of issue for a stay up to max. 30 days. The period of stay can be extended on local
application after arrival.
• Businessmen and investors providing sufficient evidence of official invitations
and relations with Iraqi authorities, or being introduced as such by ministries of
foreign affairs in their country of residence. The chambers of commerce will
also need to supply appropriate letters.
• Citizens of Coalition nations joining the multinational forces and other member
countries of over 50 troops in the multinational force (UK, USA, Australia, Italy,
Holland, South Korea, Japan and Poland). Exceptions are made for holders of service
or diplomatic passports, official delegations and subcontractors who are not required
entry visas.
• NGO members provided that the official Iraqi authority submits a letter to the ministry
of foreign affairs confirming its relation with such organizations.
What documents will be required?
Conditions for Granting Visas:
1. An applicant for visa must hold a passport valid for at least six months.
2. An application form must be filled out.
3. An applicant for visa must be able to meet his living costs during his stay in the Republic of
Iraq.
4. An applicant should also present a medical document proving his safety from
communicable diseases; otherwise, he is subject to the effective rules and instructions on
health safety.
Time required to issue visa
Visas are usually processed in 2 to 4 weeks. Rush and Emergency service may be available for
additional fees.
How long is the visa valid for?
At the present time the Embassy of Iraq issues only a single entry visa valid 3 months from the
date of issue for a stay up to max. 30 days. The period of stay can be extended on local
application after arrival.
18
Other information:
Kinds of Visas:
1. Collective tourist visa for no later than 15 days
2. Religious tourism: Due to security conditions, grouping pilgrims to holy shrines is suspended
at present. The Iraqi and Iranian sides, however, are moving forward to conclude an
agreement on grouping pilgrims to holy shrines.
3. Visit visa for various reasons for an extendable one-month period, but not exceeding, by all
means, 90 days.
4. Political visa
Fees:
– $30 for a tourist visa
– $40 for an entry visa
– $100 for a multiple visa
– $150 for a residence visa
The Iraqi diplomatic mission shall not collect fees from an applicant for visa in the following
cases:
1. Holders of diplomatic passports.
2. Those who visit Iraq on an official mission. This applies to workers in diplomatic,
international, regional and Arab missions, along with their families, throughout their work
duration in Iraq.
3. Spouses of Iraqi nationals.
4. Clergymen and outstanding politicians, scientists, intellectuals, economists, pressmen and
sports delegations invited by Iraqi ministries and endowment (Awqaf) organizations to visit
Iraq.
5. Other cases authorized by the Ministry’s Consular Department.
Under decision No. 58, which was adopted by 30 Nov. 2005, Arab subjects are denied entry
into Iraq, with exceptions to be exclusively defined by the Minister of Interior.
Embassy contact information:
Please contact the nearest Iraq embassy for information on what documentation you may
require to enter Iraq. Iraqi Embassies Worldwide.
Other information:
Kinds of Visas:
1. Collective tourist visa for no later than 15 days
2. Religious tourism: Due to security conditions, grouping pilgrims to holy shrines is suspended
at present. The Iraqi and Iranian sides, however, are moving forward to conclude an
agreement on grouping pilgrims to holy shrines.
3. Visit visa for various reasons for an extendable one-month period, but not exceeding, by all
means, 90 days.
4. Political visa
Fees:
– $30 for a tourist visa
– $40 for an entry visa
– $100 for a multiple visa
– $150 for a residence visa
The Iraqi diplomatic mission shall not collect fees from an applicant for visa in the following
cases:
1. Holders of diplomatic passports.
2. Those who visit Iraq on an official mission. This applies to workers in diplomatic,
international, regional and Arab missions, along with their families, throughout their work
duration in Iraq.
3. Spouses of Iraqi nationals.
4. Clergymen and outstanding politicians, scientists, intellectuals, economists, pressmen and
sports delegations invited by Iraqi ministries and endowment (Awqaf) organizations to visit
Iraq.
5. Other cases authorized by the Ministry’s Consular Department.
Under decision No. 58, which was adopted by 30 Nov. 2005, Arab subjects are denied entry
into Iraq, with exceptions to be exclusively defined by the Minister of Interior.
Embassy contact information:
Please contact the nearest Iraq embassy for information on what documentation you may
require to enter Iraq. Iraqi Embassies Worldwide.
19
Getting Around
By plane
Baghdad International Airport
Baghdad International Airport (BIAP) (formerly known as Saddam International Airport) (IATA:
BGW; ICAO: ORBS, now ORBI) is about 16 km from the center of Baghdad.
The civilian side of BIAP continues to grow rapidly every week.
Currently, Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) operates two round trip flights daily from their base at
the Queen Alia International Airport (IATA: AMM) in Amman.
Internet booking has recently become possible for RJA flights to Baghdad, and Iraq has now
been effectively opened to the public.
After the 2003 invasion, some of Iraqi Airways Aircraft were retrieved from storage in Syria
and Jordan and are now flying again under the Iraqi Airways name. Iraqi has recently begun
computerized operations, and tickets for future European routes are now theoretically
available for reservation online via the IA website. Although IA does not yet hold an FAA
airworthiness certificate, they operate from London to Arbil/(Erbil) using various charter flight
providers, tickets for this slightly disorganized system are available from Iraqi's appointed
agent "You Should Travel" - Royal Jordanian (RJA) is advisable over Iraqi for the time being, as
its schedule is much more comprehensive.
In addition to Iraqi Airways, Turkish Airways has begun operating flights between Istanbul
(IATA: IST) and BIAP several times per week.
Diplomats, private military contractors, and intelligence agents can use Gryphon Airlines.
Gryphon offers flights between the military side of BIAP and Kuwait City.
Additional Services to the city of Van, Turkey are offered by Turkish airlines from most western
cities via Istanbul, from here a taxi will take you to the border for the equivalent of $35 - $200
depending on your bargaining skills (note that Turkish drivers will only usually accept Lira,
Euros or Pounds Sterling)
Getting Around
By plane
Baghdad International Airport
Baghdad International Airport (BIAP) (formerly known as Saddam International Airport) (IATA:
BGW; ICAO: ORBS, now ORBI) is about 16 km from the center of Baghdad.
The civilian side of BIAP continues to grow rapidly every week.
Currently, Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) operates two round trip flights daily from their base at
the Queen Alia International Airport (IATA: AMM) in Amman.
Internet booking has recently become possible for RJA flights to Baghdad, and Iraq has now
been effectively opened to the public.
After the 2003 invasion, some of Iraqi Airways Aircraft were retrieved from storage in Syria
and Jordan and are now flying again under the Iraqi Airways name. Iraqi has recently begun
computerized operations, and tickets for future European routes are now theoretically
available for reservation online via the IA website. Although IA does not yet hold an FAA
airworthiness certificate, they operate from London to Arbil/(Erbil) using various charter flight
providers, tickets for this slightly disorganized system are available from Iraqi's appointed
agent "You Should Travel" - Royal Jordanian (RJA) is advisable over Iraqi for the time being, as
its schedule is much more comprehensive.
In addition to Iraqi Airways, Turkish Airways has begun operating flights between Istanbul
(IATA: IST) and BIAP several times per week.
Diplomats, private military contractors, and intelligence agents can use Gryphon Airlines.
Gryphon offers flights between the military side of BIAP and Kuwait City.
Additional Services to the city of Van, Turkey are offered by Turkish airlines from most western
cities via Istanbul, from here a taxi will take you to the border for the equivalent of $35 - $200
depending on your bargaining skills (note that Turkish drivers will only usually accept Lira,
Euros or Pounds Sterling)
20
For those working for Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Iraq, there
are two charter airlines operating into BIAP. Skylink and AirServ operate
frequent flights. Travel on either of these services requires sponsorship by your NGO to get
you onto an approved traveller list maintained by each. Schedules and services can be
irregular, and change frequently.
The airport is under control of the Iraqi government. Take-offs and landings at BIAP are
controlled by the Iraqi Ministry of Transportation. Several critical pieces of Air Traffic Control
gear have not been turned on, and the result of this is that BIAP can only accommodate Visual
Flight Rule (VFR) landings, not instrument landings. Because of this, the frequent sandstorms
that hit the area can obscure visibility and cause flights to be turned away. It is not unusual
for commercial flights to make it all the way to BIAP, and then turn around and return to their
origin due to limited visibility on the runway. To protect against the extreme danger of
ground-based attacks, incoming civilian flights descend from cruising altitudes in a tight spiral
within protected BIAP airspace.
When departing at BIAP, be prepared for long, disorderly, and excessively slow lines wherever
you go. If you are not working in Iraq on a government contract, your entrance to the airport
grounds about three or four miles from the airport terminal will require you and your vehicle
to wait in line to be searched. These security checkpoints can take from two to three hours to
process through. The best strategy is to find accommodations somewhere within the BIAP
area of control on the day prior to your flight so that you aren't subjected to the long wait and
end up missing your flight.
All airlines operating services at BIAP have a 100% bag matching policy. All bags, whether
carry-ons or checked luggage, are lined up on the tarmac next to the aircraft. Each individual
passenger must physically touch and claim their bags before a baggage handler and security
personnel will match it and then load it into the hold. Any bags left on the tarmac after the
boarding process is complete are not loaded and are taken away from the terminal area to a
secure facility for disposal.
Erbil International Airport
Flights into the Kurdish region in northern Iraq arrive at Erbil International Airport.
International carriers include Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, Royal Jordanian, Etihad and Viking
Airways which flies to Sweden. The Kurdish Region, being relatively safer than the rest of Iraq,
has seen enormous growth and investment since 2003, making Erbil a convenience
destination for business in the region.
For those working for Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Iraq, there
are two charter airlines operating into BIAP. Skylink and AirServ operate
frequent flights. Travel on either of these services requires sponsorship by your NGO to get
you onto an approved traveller list maintained by each. Schedules and services can be
irregular, and change frequently.
The airport is under control of the Iraqi government. Take-offs and landings at BIAP are
controlled by the Iraqi Ministry of Transportation. Several critical pieces of Air Traffic Control
gear have not been turned on, and the result of this is that BIAP can only accommodate Visual
Flight Rule (VFR) landings, not instrument landings. Because of this, the frequent sandstorms
that hit the area can obscure visibility and cause flights to be turned away. It is not unusual
for commercial flights to make it all the way to BIAP, and then turn around and return to their
origin due to limited visibility on the runway. To protect against the extreme danger of
ground-based attacks, incoming civilian flights descend from cruising altitudes in a tight spiral
within protected BIAP airspace.
When departing at BIAP, be prepared for long, disorderly, and excessively slow lines wherever
you go. If you are not working in Iraq on a government contract, your entrance to the airport
grounds about three or four miles from the airport terminal will require you and your vehicle
to wait in line to be searched. These security checkpoints can take from two to three hours to
process through. The best strategy is to find accommodations somewhere within the BIAP
area of control on the day prior to your flight so that you aren't subjected to the long wait and
end up missing your flight.
All airlines operating services at BIAP have a 100% bag matching policy. All bags, whether
carry-ons or checked luggage, are lined up on the tarmac next to the aircraft. Each individual
passenger must physically touch and claim their bags before a baggage handler and security
personnel will match it and then load it into the hold. Any bags left on the tarmac after the
boarding process is complete are not loaded and are taken away from the terminal area to a
secure facility for disposal.
Erbil International Airport
Flights into the Kurdish region in northern Iraq arrive at Erbil International Airport.
International carriers include Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, Royal Jordanian, Etihad and Viking
Airways which flies to Sweden. The Kurdish Region, being relatively safer than the rest of Iraq,
has seen enormous growth and investment since 2003, making Erbil a convenience
destination for business in the region.
21
By train
After twenty years of non-service, a once-weekly passenger train has recently been put in
service between Gaziantep in southeastern Turkey and Mosul, crossing a short strip of Syrian
territory. It departs 9PM every Thursday from Gaziantep and arrives in Mosul 2PM next day,
costing €25 pp. This is the only way of arriving in Iraq by rail for the time being. (Update, Aug
2010. Due to a request by Iraqi Railways, Gaziantep–Mosul service has been suspended until
further notice. Website of Turkish State Railways still list the train—with a note that it is
temporarily not in service—which means it is likely that the train will be back in service in the
future.)
By car
Cars can be the most dangerous method of travel into the country. On reaching the border it
is advisable to leave your taxi/rental car, for an armored 4x4, these are available for hire, with
an armed guard if required, from the British security company GENRIC for £300 ($460) a day
approximately.
From Turkey
Driving in from Turkey is the best method of entry into the Northern part of the country. This
area of the country is relatively safe, at least compared to the rest of the country. Border
police and locals will advise you which cities are safe to travel in (Zakho, Dohuk, Erbil, As-
Sulaymaniyah etc.), and will warn you away from specific cities (such as Mosul or Baghdad).
From Diyarbakir, Turkey you will drive south east to Zakho, Iraq. It is possible to take a
previously arranged taxi, the average cost of this taxi ride is $150 American dollars and most
of the drivers only speak Kurdish or Arabic. You will often switch taxis in Silopi about five
minutes from the Iraqi border, or you will change cars about 70km from the border and
continue on from there. The taxi driver will then take care of all your paperwork at the border.
This involves your driver running from building to building getting paperwork stamped and
approved. You must have a photocopy of your passport for the Turkish section of the border,
which they require that you leave with them (the photocopy, not your passport).
A much less expensive option is to take a bus from Diyarbakir directly to Silopi. This won't cost
more than about 20 YTL. From the Silopi otogar (bus station), it's easy to get a taxi to Zakho.
A good taxi driver can handle all of the photocopying and paperwork for the Turkish side.
By train
After twenty years of non-service, a once-weekly passenger train has recently been put in
service between Gaziantep in southeastern Turkey and Mosul, crossing a short strip of Syrian
territory. It departs 9PM every Thursday from Gaziantep and arrives in Mosul 2PM next day,
costing €25 pp. This is the only way of arriving in Iraq by rail for the time being. (Update, Aug
2010. Due to a request by Iraqi Railways, Gaziantep–Mosul service has been suspended until
further notice. Website of Turkish State Railways still list the train—with a note that it is
temporarily not in service—which means it is likely that the train will be back in service in the
future.)
By car
Cars can be the most dangerous method of travel into the country. On reaching the border it
is advisable to leave your taxi/rental car, for an armored 4x4, these are available for hire, with
an armed guard if required, from the British security company GENRIC for £300 ($460) a day
approximately.
From Turkey
Driving in from Turkey is the best method of entry into the Northern part of the country. This
area of the country is relatively safe, at least compared to the rest of the country. Border
police and locals will advise you which cities are safe to travel in (Zakho, Dohuk, Erbil, As-
Sulaymaniyah etc.), and will warn you away from specific cities (such as Mosul or Baghdad).
From Diyarbakir, Turkey you will drive south east to Zakho, Iraq. It is possible to take a
previously arranged taxi, the average cost of this taxi ride is $150 American dollars and most
of the drivers only speak Kurdish or Arabic. You will often switch taxis in Silopi about five
minutes from the Iraqi border, or you will change cars about 70km from the border and
continue on from there. The taxi driver will then take care of all your paperwork at the border.
This involves your driver running from building to building getting paperwork stamped and
approved. You must have a photocopy of your passport for the Turkish section of the border,
which they require that you leave with them (the photocopy, not your passport).
A much less expensive option is to take a bus from Diyarbakir directly to Silopi. This won't cost
more than about 20 YTL. From the Silopi otogar (bus station), it's easy to get a taxi to Zakho.
A good taxi driver can handle all of the photocopying and paperwork for the Turkish side.
22
At this point you will finish driving across the border crossing into Iraq. Your taxi
driver will then take you to the Iraqi immigration and customs section. All
persons and vehicles entering Iraq must be searched for contraband by the
customs officers, and their vehicles are registered and pay some sort of stamp
tax, however, occasionally, searches are not conducted. Without this stamp tax,
it is illegal for a non-Iraqi vehicle to purchase gas at any of the state-run gas stations all over
the country. After paying any import duties to customs and receiving the vehicle stamp, the
immigration officers will check your passport and stamp it if you have a visa. Additionally, at
some land border crossings, your fingerprint and/or photo will be taken. As of July 2008, there
was no visa fee at this border crossing.
At this point, you will be at the border taxi stand, a few kilometers outside of the city of Zakho,
and may need to hire another taxi to get to Zakho's city centre (5,000-10,000 Dinars). For the
taxi ride from the Turkish city where you changed cars to Zakho, it's about $40 US dollars. This
is a safe place to meet your friends or to charter a taxi into another part of the country. Enjoy
some tea while waiting.
From Jordan
For land crossings from Jordan, be prepared for a long ride. The trip through the eastern
Jordanian desert is much like a moonscape. The journey from Amman to Baghdad can take
anywhere from 10-15 hours. You will depart Amman between 5AM and 10AM, and arrive at
the border crossing about four hours later. The border crossing can take anywhere from an
hour and a half (on a very good day) to more than five or six hours. Entering Iraq usually takes
about half as much time as leaving Iraq. The Jordanian immigration and customs officers are
very finicky about whom they will let in, and they will often shut their side of the border and
not allow anyone to enter for unspecified reasons.
The trip from the border to Baghdad is VERY dangerous. The route is full of highway bandits
and gangs of thieves that prey upon unprotected travellers. Travelling this route without
adequate communications gear or weapons of any kind is STRONGLY DISCOURAGED. Do not
make any stops along this route, if traffic becomes stalled for any reason on the highway
(other than a possible IED), then it is best to make circles until traffic flows again. Vehicles,
especially those that may be occupied by westerners, are subject to attack at any time. Carry
extra fuel and plenty of food, and utilize U.S. military checkpoints to rest or stretch your legs.
At this point you will finish driving across the border crossing into Iraq. Your taxi
driver will then take you to the Iraqi immigration and customs section. All
persons and vehicles entering Iraq must be searched for contraband by the
customs officers, and their vehicles are registered and pay some sort of stamp
tax, however, occasionally, searches are not conducted. Without this stamp tax,
it is illegal for a non-Iraqi vehicle to purchase gas at any of the state-run gas stations all over
the country. After paying any import duties to customs and receiving the vehicle stamp, the
immigration officers will check your passport and stamp it if you have a visa. Additionally, at
some land border crossings, your fingerprint and/or photo will be taken. As of July 2008, there
was no visa fee at this border crossing.
At this point, you will be at the border taxi stand, a few kilometers outside of the city of Zakho,
and may need to hire another taxi to get to Zakho's city centre (5,000-10,000 Dinars). For the
taxi ride from the Turkish city where you changed cars to Zakho, it's about $40 US dollars. This
is a safe place to meet your friends or to charter a taxi into another part of the country. Enjoy
some tea while waiting.
From Jordan
For land crossings from Jordan, be prepared for a long ride. The trip through the eastern
Jordanian desert is much like a moonscape. The journey from Amman to Baghdad can take
anywhere from 10-15 hours. You will depart Amman between 5AM and 10AM, and arrive at
the border crossing about four hours later. The border crossing can take anywhere from an
hour and a half (on a very good day) to more than five or six hours. Entering Iraq usually takes
about half as much time as leaving Iraq. The Jordanian immigration and customs officers are
very finicky about whom they will let in, and they will often shut their side of the border and
not allow anyone to enter for unspecified reasons.
The trip from the border to Baghdad is VERY dangerous. The route is full of highway bandits
and gangs of thieves that prey upon unprotected travellers. Travelling this route without
adequate communications gear or weapons of any kind is STRONGLY DISCOURAGED. Do not
make any stops along this route, if traffic becomes stalled for any reason on the highway
(other than a possible IED), then it is best to make circles until traffic flows again. Vehicles,
especially those that may be occupied by westerners, are subject to attack at any time. Carry
extra fuel and plenty of food, and utilize U.S. military checkpoints to rest or stretch your legs.
23
From Kuwait
Travelling from the Kuwaiti border is just as difficult as crossing from Jordan.
The Kuwaiti crossing is complicated even more by the fact that Kuwaiti
immigration and customs officers are even more strict than the Jordanians and anything at all
can cause them to arbitrarily block your entry or exit. Sneaking into a military convoy is not
advised as your vehicle might be mistaken for a suicide attacker by the turret gunners in the
convoy.
Reliable but inconspicuous transportation is a must in Iraq. It is probably best to buy a vehicle
that blends in with the other cars on the road. Toyota, Hyundai and Kia, along with less familiar
Eastern European and Asian brands are common. BMWs and Mercedes are also seen in Iraq
but are less common, especially nice ones, which usually have the steering wheel on the right
side.
By bus
It is possible to enter Iraq from Jordan by taking a bus from Amman. Other countries may have
bus service to Iraq. Third party nationals can also gain entry into Iraq for work purposes; these
buses usually depart from Kuwait.
Get around
In Kurdistan, public transport is rare although regular buses do link Zakho and Dohuk and cost
about 2 USD. From Dohuk, shared taxis leave all day for Erbil and other cities. The road from
Dohuk to Arbil goes south near Mosul, but does not leave Kurdish territory and is thus safe,
although perhaps too close for comfort.
Shared Taxis might be the safest way to travel in Iraqi Kurdistan, as the drivers are not
interested in leaving the province either.
By car
Driving at night may be a safer alternative to daytime driving, but a few rules to follow:
• Avoid city centres. Although most Iraqis are asleep by midnight, the few that are
awake are almost certainly up to no good.
• Watch for the military. If you are out late at night and effectively trying to blend in
with the locals, you could be mistaken for a hostile/troublemaker. At checkpoints, you
will also be treated as a suspect, and until they decide you are not a target, you must
conduct yourself carefully.
From Kuwait
Travelling from the Kuwaiti border is just as difficult as crossing from Jordan.
The Kuwaiti crossing is complicated even more by the fact that Kuwaiti
immigration and customs officers are even more strict than the Jordanians and anything at all
can cause them to arbitrarily block your entry or exit. Sneaking into a military convoy is not
advised as your vehicle might be mistaken for a suicide attacker by the turret gunners in the
convoy.
Reliable but inconspicuous transportation is a must in Iraq. It is probably best to buy a vehicle
that blends in with the other cars on the road. Toyota, Hyundai and Kia, along with less familiar
Eastern European and Asian brands are common. BMWs and Mercedes are also seen in Iraq
but are less common, especially nice ones, which usually have the steering wheel on the right
side.
By bus
It is possible to enter Iraq from Jordan by taking a bus from Amman. Other countries may have
bus service to Iraq. Third party nationals can also gain entry into Iraq for work purposes; these
buses usually depart from Kuwait.
Get around
In Kurdistan, public transport is rare although regular buses do link Zakho and Dohuk and cost
about 2 USD. From Dohuk, shared taxis leave all day for Erbil and other cities. The road from
Dohuk to Arbil goes south near Mosul, but does not leave Kurdish territory and is thus safe,
although perhaps too close for comfort.
Shared Taxis might be the safest way to travel in Iraqi Kurdistan, as the drivers are not
interested in leaving the province either.
By car
Driving at night may be a safer alternative to daytime driving, but a few rules to follow:
• Avoid city centres. Although most Iraqis are asleep by midnight, the few that are
awake are almost certainly up to no good.
• Watch for the military. If you are out late at night and effectively trying to blend in
with the locals, you could be mistaken for a hostile/troublemaker. At checkpoints, you
will also be treated as a suspect, and until they decide you are not a target, you must
conduct yourself carefully.
24
• If you do encounter the military, ensure your lights are on, turn on your
hazards/flashers, slow or pull over to the side of the road and follow any and all
instructions given. If a stop sign, green laser, or any other signal is directed at
you or in your general direction it is advisable to follow it, better to err on the
side of caution than get shot at.
Language & Money
LANGUAGE
Arabic is the national language of Iraq, but English is so commonly spoken there that most
travellers will get by in the various shops, markets and cafes. The downside is that speaking
English will immediately identify you as an outsider. This is dangerous because of the strong
underground network of Iraqis who inform attackers of possible target opportunities.
Kurdish is spoken in the Kurdistan region, in one of two varieties: Kurmanji and Sorani.
Kurmanji is spoken in and around Dohuk while Sorani is spoken in and around Arbil (Hewlar)
and Sulaymaniyah. These two varieties are mutually unintelligible. However, Arabic is also
widely spoken, and the number of speakers of English is on the rise.
MONEY
Iraqi dinar is the official currency, however you will also be able to spend Euros € and US
Dollars $ almost everywhere. Be aware that most people do not like to make change for large
bills. Also note that any defects in the bills (creases, ink stamps from banks, tears, etc.) will
raise suspicion that you are a counterfeiter. Don't bring old bills with you, either. Carry mostly
small bills in the form of Iraqi dinars for daily spending cash. Since the introduction of the new
Iraqi dinar, its widespread acceptance and confidence has reduced the prominence of the
USD, and many shopkeepers are now refusing to accept them. However, most people will still
pay large hotel bills or rent payments using USD or EUR due to the sheer volume of notes
required to pay with dinars. The conversion rate fluctuates from day to day and from town to
town, but is around 1175 dinar to US$1. Inflation used to be relative high (65% a year since
2003) but in recent years it is much lower than before (11% in 2008), which makes the Iraqi
dinar becomes an attractive target for investors, unlike the Vietnamese dong.
• If you do encounter the military, ensure your lights are on, turn on your
hazards/flashers, slow or pull over to the side of the road and follow any and all
instructions given. If a stop sign, green laser, or any other signal is directed at
you or in your general direction it is advisable to follow it, better to err on the
side of caution than get shot at.
Language & Money
LANGUAGE
Arabic is the national language of Iraq, but English is so commonly spoken there that most
travellers will get by in the various shops, markets and cafes. The downside is that speaking
English will immediately identify you as an outsider. This is dangerous because of the strong
underground network of Iraqis who inform attackers of possible target opportunities.
Kurdish is spoken in the Kurdistan region, in one of two varieties: Kurmanji and Sorani.
Kurmanji is spoken in and around Dohuk while Sorani is spoken in and around Arbil (Hewlar)
and Sulaymaniyah. These two varieties are mutually unintelligible. However, Arabic is also
widely spoken, and the number of speakers of English is on the rise.
MONEY
Iraqi dinar is the official currency, however you will also be able to spend Euros € and US
Dollars $ almost everywhere. Be aware that most people do not like to make change for large
bills. Also note that any defects in the bills (creases, ink stamps from banks, tears, etc.) will
raise suspicion that you are a counterfeiter. Don't bring old bills with you, either. Carry mostly
small bills in the form of Iraqi dinars for daily spending cash. Since the introduction of the new
Iraqi dinar, its widespread acceptance and confidence has reduced the prominence of the
USD, and many shopkeepers are now refusing to accept them. However, most people will still
pay large hotel bills or rent payments using USD or EUR due to the sheer volume of notes
required to pay with dinars. The conversion rate fluctuates from day to day and from town to
town, but is around 1175 dinar to US$1. Inflation used to be relative high (65% a year since
2003) but in recent years it is much lower than before (11% in 2008), which makes the Iraqi
dinar becomes an attractive target for investors, unlike the Vietnamese dong.
25
Cultural Tips
Etiquette and Customs in Iraq
Meeting People
• The most common greeting is the handshake coupled with eye contact and a smile.
• The standard Arabic/Islamic greeting is "asalaamu alaikum" ("peace be with you"), to
which the response is "wa alaikum salaam" ("and peace be unto you").
• Good friends of the same sex may greet each other with a handshake and a kiss on
each cheek, starting with the right.
• Expect to be introduced to each person individually at a small social function. At a
large function, you may introduce yourself.
Gift Giving Etiquette
• If you are invited to an Iraqi’s home, bring a box of cookies, pastries or a box of
chocolates. A fruit basket is also appreciated.
• Flowers are being given more and more but only to a hostess.
• If a man must give a gift to a woman, he should say that it is from his wife, mother,
sister, or some other female relation.
• A small gift for the children is always a good touch.
• Gifts are given with two hands.
• Gifts are generally not opened when received.
Dining Etiquette
The culture of hospitality means Iraqis like to invite people to their homes. If you are invited
to a home:
• Check to see if you should remove shoes.
• Dress conservatively and smartly.
• Do not discuss business.
• Iraqi table manners are relatively formal.
• If the meal is on the floor, sit cross-legged or kneel on one knee. Never let your feet
touch the food mat.
• Use the right hand for eating and drinking.
• It is considered polite to leave some food on your plate when you have finished eating.
Cultural Tips
Etiquette and Customs in Iraq
Meeting People
• The most common greeting is the handshake coupled with eye contact and a smile.
• The standard Arabic/Islamic greeting is "asalaamu alaikum" ("peace be with you"), to
which the response is "wa alaikum salaam" ("and peace be unto you").
• Good friends of the same sex may greet each other with a handshake and a kiss on
each cheek, starting with the right.
• Expect to be introduced to each person individually at a small social function. At a
large function, you may introduce yourself.
Gift Giving Etiquette
• If you are invited to an Iraqi’s home, bring a box of cookies, pastries or a box of
chocolates. A fruit basket is also appreciated.
• Flowers are being given more and more but only to a hostess.
• If a man must give a gift to a woman, he should say that it is from his wife, mother,
sister, or some other female relation.
• A small gift for the children is always a good touch.
• Gifts are given with two hands.
• Gifts are generally not opened when received.
Dining Etiquette
The culture of hospitality means Iraqis like to invite people to their homes. If you are invited
to a home:
• Check to see if you should remove shoes.
• Dress conservatively and smartly.
• Do not discuss business.
• Iraqi table manners are relatively formal.
• If the meal is on the floor, sit cross-legged or kneel on one knee. Never let your feet
touch the food mat.
• Use the right hand for eating and drinking.
• It is considered polite to leave some food on your plate when you have finished eating.
26
Business Etiquette and Protocol
Meeting and Greeting
• Iraqi businesspeople are relatively formal in their business dealings.
• The common Arabic greeting is "asalaamu alaikum" (peace be with you), to which you
should respond "wa alaikum salaam" (and peace be with you).
• The most common business greeting is the handshake with direct eye contact.
• Handshakes can be rather prolonged; try not to be the first person to remove your
hand.
• Men should wait to see if a woman extends her hand.
• Business cards are given out.
• It’s a nice touch to have one side of your card translated into Arabic.
Communication Styles
The need to save face and protect honor means that showing emotions is seen negatively.
Displays of anger are a serious no-no. If you must show disapproval it is always best to do so
in a one-to-one, quietly and with tact.
Always keep your word. Do not make a promise or guarantee unless you can keep it. If you
want to show a commitment to something but do not want to make caste iron assurances
then employ terms such as “I will do my best,” “We will see,” or the local term “insha-Allah”
(God willing).
Iraqi businesspeople are not afraid of asking blunt and probing questions. These may be about
you, your company or its intentions.
Business Etiquette and Protocol
Meeting and Greeting
• Iraqi businesspeople are relatively formal in their business dealings.
• The common Arabic greeting is "asalaamu alaikum" (peace be with you), to which you
should respond "wa alaikum salaam" (and peace be with you).
• The most common business greeting is the handshake with direct eye contact.
• Handshakes can be rather prolonged; try not to be the first person to remove your
hand.
• Men should wait to see if a woman extends her hand.
• Business cards are given out.
• It’s a nice touch to have one side of your card translated into Arabic.
Communication Styles
The need to save face and protect honor means that showing emotions is seen negatively.
Displays of anger are a serious no-no. If you must show disapproval it is always best to do so
in a one-to-one, quietly and with tact.
Always keep your word. Do not make a promise or guarantee unless you can keep it. If you
want to show a commitment to something but do not want to make caste iron assurances
then employ terms such as “I will do my best,” “We will see,” or the local term “insha-Allah”
(God willing).
Iraqi businesspeople are not afraid of asking blunt and probing questions. These may be about
you, your company or its intentions.
27
Business Meetings
Due to the hierarchical nature of organizations or businesses the leader of an
Iraqi team does most of the talking for his company or department. Subordinates are there to
corroborate information or to provide technical advice and counsel to the most senior Iraqi.
It is a good idea to send any information or agendas in Arabic in advance. If you are bringing
a team send the names, titles, and a brief business bio of people attending.
Decisions are generally made by the top of the company but this will be based on
recommendations from pertinent stakeholders and technical experts who sit in on meetings.
Expect interruptions during meetings when phone calls may be taken or people enter the
room on other matters. This should not be seen negatively; one should simply remain patient
and wait for matters to return to them.
Iraqis often have several side discussions taking place during a meeting. They may interrupt
the speaker if they have something to add. They can be loud and forceful in getting their point
of view across.
Tipping
Tipping is a way of showing your satisfaction with a service rendered. Tips to your driver, guide
and the hotel personnel are not included and left to your discretion.
Business Hours
Government Offices 8:00 to 14:00 (Sat to Thu)
Banks 8:00 to 12:30 - to 12:00 Saturday
Shops & Malls 9:00 to 18:00 - to 17:00 in summer
Private Sector 8:00 to 17:00 - with one or two hours lunch break
Business Meetings
Due to the hierarchical nature of organizations or businesses the leader of an
Iraqi team does most of the talking for his company or department. Subordinates are there to
corroborate information or to provide technical advice and counsel to the most senior Iraqi.
It is a good idea to send any information or agendas in Arabic in advance. If you are bringing
a team send the names, titles, and a brief business bio of people attending.
Decisions are generally made by the top of the company but this will be based on
recommendations from pertinent stakeholders and technical experts who sit in on meetings.
Expect interruptions during meetings when phone calls may be taken or people enter the
room on other matters. This should not be seen negatively; one should simply remain patient
and wait for matters to return to them.
Iraqis often have several side discussions taking place during a meeting. They may interrupt
the speaker if they have something to add. They can be loud and forceful in getting their point
of view across.
Tipping
Tipping is a way of showing your satisfaction with a service rendered. Tips to your driver, guide
and the hotel personnel are not included and left to your discretion.
Business Hours
Government Offices 8:00 to 14:00 (Sat to Thu)
Banks 8:00 to 12:30 - to 12:00 Saturday
Shops & Malls 9:00 to 18:00 - to 17:00 in summer
Private Sector 8:00 to 17:00 - with one or two hours lunch break
28
Country Demographics
Capital Baghdad
Population
28,221,180 (July 2008 est.)
Ethnic
Arab 75%-80%, Kurdish 15%-20%, Turkoman, Assyrian, or other 5%
Religions
Muslim 97%, Christian or other 3%
Languages
The official language of Iraq is Arabic. Many other languages are spoken by a variety
of ethnic groups, most notably Kurdish.
Local Time UTC/GMT +3 hours
Phone & Power
Telecommunications
Emergency Numbers
Police 104
Dialing Codes
Country Code 964
IDD Prefix (International Direct Dialing) 00
NDD Prefix (National Direct Dialing) 0
Telephone Information
Mobile telephones are the best form of communication; a number of different companies
offer services and SIM cards can be cheaply procured. Call rates are reasonable and scratch
cards for topping up credit are available on almost every street corner. The internet is
available at some hotels and at internet cafés in towns, but the latter often have slow
connections and poor equipment. Wireless networks will not be found, except at the few top-
end hotels. The local postal service is not reliable – the services offered by international
courier companies such as DHL, FedEx, and UPS are preferable.
Country Demographics
Capital Baghdad
Population
28,221,180 (July 2008 est.)
Ethnic
Arab 75%-80%, Kurdish 15%-20%, Turkoman, Assyrian, or other 5%
Religions
Muslim 97%, Christian or other 3%
Languages
The official language of Iraq is Arabic. Many other languages are spoken by a variety
of ethnic groups, most notably Kurdish.
Local Time UTC/GMT +3 hours
Phone & Power
Telecommunications
Emergency Numbers
Police 104
Dialing Codes
Country Code 964
IDD Prefix (International Direct Dialing) 00
NDD Prefix (National Direct Dialing) 0
Telephone Information
Mobile telephones are the best form of communication; a number of different companies
offer services and SIM cards can be cheaply procured. Call rates are reasonable and scratch
cards for topping up credit are available on almost every street corner. The internet is
available at some hotels and at internet cafés in towns, but the latter often have slow
connections and poor equipment. Wireless networks will not be found, except at the few top-
end hotels. The local postal service is not reliable – the services offered by international
courier companies such as DHL, FedEx, and UPS are preferable.
29
Electricity
• Iraq Voltage: 230 V
• Iraq Electrical Frequency: 50 Hz
• Iraq Plug: C or D or G
• Iraq DVD Region: 2
• Iraq Blu-ray Region: B
• Iraq GSM Frequency: GSM 900
Additional Electrical Information
Iraq Voltage
The voltage in Iraq is 230 V which is the same voltage used in France, Germany, and the United
Kingdom.
230 V has an advantage over lower voltage such as the 110 V that it is cheaper to transmit.
On the other hand, 230 V is more dangerous than lower voltages.
Iraq Electrical Frequency
The electrical frequency in Iraq is 50 Hz.
Note that most household and electrical/electronic equipment’s nowadays support multiple
frequencies, so generally, electrical frequency is not an issue compatibility wise.
Iraq Plug/Socket Type(s)
The plugs used in Iraq are C or D or G.
Plugs/sockets are usually an issue when it comes to traveling, so always make sure you travel
with a universal plug adapter. [Add Details here]
Electricity
• Iraq Voltage: 230 V
• Iraq Electrical Frequency: 50 Hz
• Iraq Plug: C or D or G
• Iraq DVD Region: 2
• Iraq Blu-ray Region: B
• Iraq GSM Frequency: GSM 900
Additional Electrical Information
Iraq Voltage
The voltage in Iraq is 230 V which is the same voltage used in France, Germany, and the United
Kingdom.
230 V has an advantage over lower voltage such as the 110 V that it is cheaper to transmit.
On the other hand, 230 V is more dangerous than lower voltages.
Iraq Electrical Frequency
The electrical frequency in Iraq is 50 Hz.
Note that most household and electrical/electronic equipment’s nowadays support multiple
frequencies, so generally, electrical frequency is not an issue compatibility wise.
Iraq Plug/Socket Type(s)
The plugs used in Iraq are C or D or G.
Plugs/sockets are usually an issue when it comes to traveling, so always make sure you travel
with a universal plug adapter. [Add Details here]
30
Geography & Weather
Climate
Iraq's mainly continental climate brings a wide range of temperature, with hot summers,
particularly in the south, and cold winters, especially on the higher ground.
In the mountainous region of the north, summers can be a little cooler and humidity is lower
than in the south. During the winter months (October to April) snow often falls on the
mountains.
In the central areas of Iraq, summers are much hotter, with temperatures in Baghdad rising
to about 33.3oC (92 F) in July and August. It is not unknown for temperatures to soar as high
as 50.6oC (123 F) in this region. Winter in Baghdad brings a mean temperature of about 9.4oC
(49 F). Temperatures in Basra range from 37oC (98.6 F) in summer to 14oC (57.2 F) in winter.
Dust storms are an unpleasant feature of the central plains region.
The southern area around the Gulf has extremely high humidity and some of the highest
temperatures recorded anywhere in the world.
Rainfall is heaviest in the north-east and falls mostly between October and May. On the
central plain, however, less than 152mm (about 6 inches) falls annually. Desert areas receive
virtually no rainfall.
GEOGRAPHY
The geography of Iraq is diverse and falls into four main regions: the desert (west of the
Euphrates), Upper Mesopotamia (between the upper Tigris and Euphrates rivers), the
northern highlands of Iraqi Kurdistan, and Lower Mesopotamia, the alluvial plain extending
from around Tikrit to the Persian Gulf.
The mountains in the northeast are an extension of the alpine system that runs eastward from
the Balkans through southern Turkey, northern Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan, eventually
reaching the Himalayas. The desert is in the southwest and central provinces along the
borders with Saudi Arabia and Jordan and geographically belongs with the Arabian Peninsula.
Iraq holds a special distinction in the history of geography: a clay tablet generally accepted as
"the earliest known map" was unearthed in 1930 during the excavation of Ga-Sur at Nuzi
Yorghan Tepe, near the towns of Harran and Kirkuk, 200 miles (322 km) north of the site of
Babylon. The tablet, measuring 6.8 in × 7.6 in (173 mm × 193 mm), is usually dated from the
dynasty of Sargon of Akkad between 2500-2300 BC; an even earlier date for the tablet was
promulgated by archeologist Leo Bagrow, placing it in the Agade Period (3800 BC).
Geography & Weather
Climate
Iraq's mainly continental climate brings a wide range of temperature, with hot summers,
particularly in the south, and cold winters, especially on the higher ground.
In the mountainous region of the north, summers can be a little cooler and humidity is lower
than in the south. During the winter months (October to April) snow often falls on the
mountains.
In the central areas of Iraq, summers are much hotter, with temperatures in Baghdad rising
to about 33.3oC (92 F) in July and August. It is not unknown for temperatures to soar as high
as 50.6oC (123 F) in this region. Winter in Baghdad brings a mean temperature of about 9.4oC
(49 F). Temperatures in Basra range from 37oC (98.6 F) in summer to 14oC (57.2 F) in winter.
Dust storms are an unpleasant feature of the central plains region.
The southern area around the Gulf has extremely high humidity and some of the highest
temperatures recorded anywhere in the world.
Rainfall is heaviest in the north-east and falls mostly between October and May. On the
central plain, however, less than 152mm (about 6 inches) falls annually. Desert areas receive
virtually no rainfall.
GEOGRAPHY
The geography of Iraq is diverse and falls into four main regions: the desert (west of the
Euphrates), Upper Mesopotamia (between the upper Tigris and Euphrates rivers), the
northern highlands of Iraqi Kurdistan, and Lower Mesopotamia, the alluvial plain extending
from around Tikrit to the Persian Gulf.
The mountains in the northeast are an extension of the alpine system that runs eastward from
the Balkans through southern Turkey, northern Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan, eventually
reaching the Himalayas. The desert is in the southwest and central provinces along the
borders with Saudi Arabia and Jordan and geographically belongs with the Arabian Peninsula.
Iraq holds a special distinction in the history of geography: a clay tablet generally accepted as
"the earliest known map" was unearthed in 1930 during the excavation of Ga-Sur at Nuzi
Yorghan Tepe, near the towns of Harran and Kirkuk, 200 miles (322 km) north of the site of
Babylon. The tablet, measuring 6.8 in × 7.6 in (173 mm × 193 mm), is usually dated from the
dynasty of Sargon of Akkad between 2500-2300 BC; an even earlier date for the tablet was
promulgated by archeologist Leo Bagrow, placing it in the Agade Period (3800 BC).
31
List of Oil Fields in Iraq
Iraqi Oil Field / Operator - Partners
• Rumaila / BP – CNPC
• West Qurna-Phase 1 / Exxon Mobil – Royal Dutch Shell
• West Qurna – Phase 2 / Lukoil - Statoil
• Zubair / Eni – Oxy, Kogas
• Majnoon / Royal Dutch Shell – Petronas
• Halfaya / CNPC – Total, Petronas
• Garraf / Petronas - Japex
• Badra / Gazprom – TPAO, Kogas, Petronas
• Qaiyarah / Sonangol
• Najmah / Sonangol
• Al Ahdab / CNPC
List of Oil Fields in Iraq
Iraqi Oil Field / Operator - Partners
• Rumaila / BP – CNPC
• West Qurna-Phase 1 / Exxon Mobil – Royal Dutch Shell
• West Qurna – Phase 2 / Lukoil - Statoil
• Zubair / Eni – Oxy, Kogas
• Majnoon / Royal Dutch Shell – Petronas
• Halfaya / CNPC – Total, Petronas
• Garraf / Petronas - Japex
• Badra / Gazprom – TPAO, Kogas, Petronas
• Qaiyarah / Sonangol
• Najmah / Sonangol
• Al Ahdab / CNPC
32
Security Companies:
ArmorGroup
Description of services:
ArmorGroup operates in 40 countries worldwide and is a leading international risk
management, security services, mine action, and information service provider. In Iraq we
currently have offices in Mosul, Baghdad, and Basra, and on-going operations throughout the
country. They provide major corporate and government clients in Iraq with risk assessment
and management, close protection, manned guarding, technical security systems, and mine
action services (mine clearing and unexploded ordnance disposal). ArmorGroup supports the
Joint US/UK Government’s Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights, and subscribes
to the Code of Conduct of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
ArmorGroup is a United Nations approved provider, and is ISO 9001:2000 certified.
Control Risks Group
Description of Services:
Control risk is a leading international business risk consultancy with 28 years’ experience of
supporting more than 5,300 clients in over 130 countries. They currently have an office in
Baghdad providing major governmental and corporate clients with a range of services,
including security management, discreet armed protection, and information support.
Overseas Security & Strategic Information, Inc/Safenet - Iraq
Description of Services:
We provide in-country "hands on" management of highly trained and experienced South
African security personnel by former American intelligence officers with paramilitary
backgrounds. Services include close protection of VIPs, general personal security of
employees, convoy escorts of personnel and equipment, training of local security personnel,
provision of armored and unarmored vehicles, threat and intelligence reporting, and provision
of combat medics with proper equipment. Our approach is responsive, personalized and cost-
effective.
Security Companies:
ArmorGroup
Description of services:
ArmorGroup operates in 40 countries worldwide and is a leading international risk
management, security services, mine action, and information service provider. In Iraq we
currently have offices in Mosul, Baghdad, and Basra, and on-going operations throughout the
country. They provide major corporate and government clients in Iraq with risk assessment
and management, close protection, manned guarding, technical security systems, and mine
action services (mine clearing and unexploded ordnance disposal). ArmorGroup supports the
Joint US/UK Government’s Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights, and subscribes
to the Code of Conduct of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
ArmorGroup is a United Nations approved provider, and is ISO 9001:2000 certified.
Control Risks Group
Description of Services:
Control risk is a leading international business risk consultancy with 28 years’ experience of
supporting more than 5,300 clients in over 130 countries. They currently have an office in
Baghdad providing major governmental and corporate clients with a range of services,
including security management, discreet armed protection, and information support.
Overseas Security & Strategic Information, Inc/Safenet - Iraq
Description of Services:
We provide in-country "hands on" management of highly trained and experienced South
African security personnel by former American intelligence officers with paramilitary
backgrounds. Services include close protection of VIPs, general personal security of
employees, convoy escorts of personnel and equipment, training of local security personnel,
provision of armored and unarmored vehicles, threat and intelligence reporting, and provision
of combat medics with proper equipment. Our approach is responsive, personalized and cost-
effective.
33
Wade-Boyd and Associates LLC
Description of Services:
Owned and operated by honorably retired U.S. army military police investigator, who
currently is the command investigator lieutenant for the U.S. DOD federal police. And, an
honorably retired (twice) U.S. DOD federal police investigator sergeant/chief of police. With
over 40 years of combined experience, we provide: professional, experienced, former
military/federal law enforcement, armed close protection teams, K-9 dogs for explosive
detection and protection, security officers both standing and roving, investigations, under-
cover investigations, armed escorts, vehicle and transportation convoy security, armed patrol
in vehicle and water craft, air craft protection teams both on land and in the air, translators,
armed money/valuables escorts, surveillance, global vehicle tracking, home and business
protection both uniformed and plan clothes, armored vehicles, and more.
Edinburgh Risk and Security Management
Description of Services:
Edinburgh Risk provides consultancy, training and physical services (management, logistics
and security) aimed at facilitating business operations in high-risk environments. With a
strong client-based focus, Edinburgh Risk is able to act as an 'in house' security provider and
business advisor that provide a superior level of service, tailored to your individual needs.
Through applying our extensive knowledge and capabilities to individual risk and business
management issues, our objective is to work side by side with our clients to support and
facilitate their business operation and provide strategic solutions that will remove any
obstacles to effective management. Our aim is to protect our clients people, assets and
reputation; and in turn provide them with the freedom to explore the opportunities that are
available for their business. We do this through careful planning and accurate threat
assessment and by ensuring that client staff are fully aware of the risks of the environment in
which they are operating.
Wade-Boyd and Associates LLC
Description of Services:
Owned and operated by honorably retired U.S. army military police investigator, who
currently is the command investigator lieutenant for the U.S. DOD federal police. And, an
honorably retired (twice) U.S. DOD federal police investigator sergeant/chief of police. With
over 40 years of combined experience, we provide: professional, experienced, former
military/federal law enforcement, armed close protection teams, K-9 dogs for explosive
detection and protection, security officers both standing and roving, investigations, under-
cover investigations, armed escorts, vehicle and transportation convoy security, armed patrol
in vehicle and water craft, air craft protection teams both on land and in the air, translators,
armed money/valuables escorts, surveillance, global vehicle tracking, home and business
protection both uniformed and plan clothes, armored vehicles, and more.
Edinburgh Risk and Security Management
Description of Services:
Edinburgh Risk provides consultancy, training and physical services (management, logistics
and security) aimed at facilitating business operations in high-risk environments. With a
strong client-based focus, Edinburgh Risk is able to act as an 'in house' security provider and
business advisor that provide a superior level of service, tailored to your individual needs.
Through applying our extensive knowledge and capabilities to individual risk and business
management issues, our objective is to work side by side with our clients to support and
facilitate their business operation and provide strategic solutions that will remove any
obstacles to effective management. Our aim is to protect our clients people, assets and
reputation; and in turn provide them with the freedom to explore the opportunities that are
available for their business. We do this through careful planning and accurate threat
assessment and by ensuring that client staff are fully aware of the risks of the environment in
which they are operating.
34
Active NGOs List
International NGOs
ACDI VOKA
ACTED
CARITAS
DRC
Generation I
Handicap International
Heartland Alliance
The Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HDC)
Human Relief Foundation
IDMC
IKV Pax Christi
Iraqi Foundation
IRC
Islamic Relief
JEN
JVC
LIFE
MCC
MDM
Mercy Corps
Mines Advisory Group (MAG) Iraq
Muslim Aid
Muslim Hands
Nature Iraq
NOVA
NPA – Norwegian People Aid
Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC)
Oxfam
PIN – People in Need
Premiere Urgence
Qandil
Relief International
Save the Children - International
STEP – seeking to equip people
UPP
WARCHILD
Women for Women International (US)
Active NGOs List
International NGOs
ACDI VOKA
ACTED
CARITAS
DRC
Generation I
Handicap International
Heartland Alliance
The Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HDC)
Human Relief Foundation
IDMC
IKV Pax Christi
Iraqi Foundation
IRC
Islamic Relief
JEN
JVC
LIFE
MCC
MDM
Mercy Corps
Mines Advisory Group (MAG) Iraq
Muslim Aid
Muslim Hands
Nature Iraq
NOVA
NPA – Norwegian People Aid
Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC)
Oxfam
PIN – People in Need
Premiere Urgence
Qandil
Relief International
Save the Children - International
STEP – seeking to equip people
UPP
WARCHILD
Women for Women International (US)
35
National NGOs
Afkar Society for development and relief
Al Erada Organization for Relief And Development
Al Haq organization for Human Rights Culture
Alind Organization
Al-Mesalla Organization for Human Resources Development
Al Nahrain Foundation for Relief & Development
Al Noor Organization
Al Tahreer Society
Al Tasamuhia Organization
Association for women and children
Asuda
ATQCI (Association of Teaching Qualifying Children in Iraq)
Charitable Association for Widows and Orphans Care
Fatima House
HARIKAR
IHSCO - Iraqi Health and Social Care organization
Iraqi Al Amal
Iraqi Association for Human Right in Basra
Iraqi Institution for Development
Iraqi Youth League
K4IWS
KCRO – Kurdish
KURDS
Ma'moura Humanitarian Establishment
Mercy Hands for Humanitarian Aid
New Life Organization for Anfal
REACH
Salam Al Rafidain
Social Solidarity Org.
United Foundation for Relief & Abiding Development
Voice of Old People (VOP)
National NGOs
Afkar Society for development and relief
Al Erada Organization for Relief And Development
Al Haq organization for Human Rights Culture
Alind Organization
Al-Mesalla Organization for Human Resources Development
Al Nahrain Foundation for Relief & Development
Al Noor Organization
Al Tahreer Society
Al Tasamuhia Organization
Association for women and children
Asuda
ATQCI (Association of Teaching Qualifying Children in Iraq)
Charitable Association for Widows and Orphans Care
Fatima House
HARIKAR
IHSCO - Iraqi Health and Social Care organization
Iraqi Al Amal
Iraqi Association for Human Right in Basra
Iraqi Institution for Development
Iraqi Youth League
K4IWS
KCRO – Kurdish
KURDS
Ma'moura Humanitarian Establishment
Mercy Hands for Humanitarian Aid
New Life Organization for Anfal
REACH
Salam Al Rafidain
Social Solidarity Org.
United Foundation for Relief & Abiding Development
Voice of Old People (VOP)
36
Some NGOs Activities
Handicap International
Handicap International is an independent international aid organization working in situations
of poverty and exclusion, conflict and disaster.
Working alongside people with disabilities and vulnerable populations, we take action and
raise awareness in order to respond to their essential needs, improve their living conditions
and promote respect for their dignity and fundamental rights.
Our projects
Supporting organizations and public authorities
Aims to support the three main stakeholders involved in rehabilitation services (disabled
people’s organizations, service providers and public authorities) to improve the access to their
services. The specific objectives are building the capacity of local stakeholders on disability,
person-focused approach and information management, providing technical and financial
support, and supporting local initiatives to make the access to rehabilitation services easier.
Mine risk education
Aims to reduce the threat of mines and explosive devices in the North of Iraq. This project also
builds the capacity of national demining centers on mine risk prevention.
Assistance to people with injuries or disabilities
A project in 6 governorates in central and southern Iraq providing assistance to people with
injuries, disabilities or living in a vulnerable situation. The goal is to meet people's basic needs
through distribution of kits and assistive mobility devices, and providing a referral service or
rehabilitation centers. The project is managed from Amman, Jordan by Handicap
International, which provides financial and technical support to our partner Iraq Health and
Social Care Organization (IHSCO).
Training a team of physiotherapists (Amman)
Supporting services in the physiotherapy department in Amman (in partnership with MSF
France): providing training to the team of physiotherapists in the surgery ward of a hospital
dedicated to people from Iraq.
Supporting KORD
Aims to build the capacity of the local organization KORD by achieving a financial balance,
helping develop a strategic plan and improving its management capacities. The activities of
KORD include providing prosthetic and orthotic devices, looking for or creating jobs for
landmine victims, providing raising-awareness activities on disability and lobbying public
authorities.
Some NGOs Activities
Handicap International
Handicap International is an independent international aid organization working in situations
of poverty and exclusion, conflict and disaster.
Working alongside people with disabilities and vulnerable populations, we take action and
raise awareness in order to respond to their essential needs, improve their living conditions
and promote respect for their dignity and fundamental rights.
Our projects
Supporting organizations and public authorities
Aims to support the three main stakeholders involved in rehabilitation services (disabled
people’s organizations, service providers and public authorities) to improve the access to their
services. The specific objectives are building the capacity of local stakeholders on disability,
person-focused approach and information management, providing technical and financial
support, and supporting local initiatives to make the access to rehabilitation services easier.
Mine risk education
Aims to reduce the threat of mines and explosive devices in the North of Iraq. This project also
builds the capacity of national demining centers on mine risk prevention.
Assistance to people with injuries or disabilities
A project in 6 governorates in central and southern Iraq providing assistance to people with
injuries, disabilities or living in a vulnerable situation. The goal is to meet people's basic needs
through distribution of kits and assistive mobility devices, and providing a referral service or
rehabilitation centers. The project is managed from Amman, Jordan by Handicap
International, which provides financial and technical support to our partner Iraq Health and
Social Care Organization (IHSCO).
Training a team of physiotherapists (Amman)
Supporting services in the physiotherapy department in Amman (in partnership with MSF
France): providing training to the team of physiotherapists in the surgery ward of a hospital
dedicated to people from Iraq.
Supporting KORD
Aims to build the capacity of the local organization KORD by achieving a financial balance,
helping develop a strategic plan and improving its management capacities. The activities of
KORD include providing prosthetic and orthotic devices, looking for or creating jobs for
landmine victims, providing raising-awareness activities on disability and lobbying public
authorities.
37
NRC IN iraq
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent, humanitarian, non-profit, non-
governmental organisation which provides assistance, protection and durable solutions to
refugees and internally displaced persons worldwide.
Since 2010, NRC has operated at community level seeking to improve the living conditions for
IDPs in informal settlements of Baghdad through community mobilization approaches. In
2012, this approach was complemented with efforts to advance alternative durable solutions
for IDPs that are not able to return to their places of origin. In 2013, NRC will continue these
approaches, but also incorporate several of its traditional core competencies.
In October 2012, NRC carried out a rapid assessment in WASH, Shelter and Education to
inform our response to the needs of the Syrian refugees in the Kurdish Region of Iraq during
2013.
Shelter:
In the Kurdish Region of Iraq (KR-I) – NRC will work on improving the living conditions of the
most vulnerable Syrian refugees residing in urban settings by upgrading the houses of families
that are hosting refugees in Dohuk and Erbil Governorates. This project targets 450
households. Baghdad – NRC will continue operating a programmed portfolio that combines
community mobilization, promotion of durable solutions and information dissemination and
advocacy to improve the current conditions and future prospects for IDPs in informal
settlements. In a smaller scale, NRC will work on in-situ upgrading of housing for highly
vulnerable families in settlements for which no solution appears imminent.
WASH:
KR-I – Water and sanitation is identified as a key priority in Domiz camp and NRC has engaged
with donors and humanitarian actors to address water and sanitation related challenges. In
addition, a WASH component might be added to the housing upgrading mentioned above to
improve the living conditions of the urban refugees. Baghdad – NRC will undertake small-scale
WASH projects in informal settlements in Baghdad, for the same communities being assisted
under the shelter program mentioned above targeting the most vulnerable IDPs.
Distribution:
NRC will carry out additional distributions of non-food items (NFIs) for newly arriving Syrian
refugees as needed.
Advocacy:
NRC‘s advocacy strategy aims to alert and mobilize relevant stakeholders; including
authorities, humanitarian partners, and donor countries, in response to the protection and
assistance needs of IDPs and refugees in Iraq.
NRC IN iraq
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent, humanitarian, non-profit, non-
governmental organisation which provides assistance, protection and durable solutions to
refugees and internally displaced persons worldwide.
Since 2010, NRC has operated at community level seeking to improve the living conditions for
IDPs in informal settlements of Baghdad through community mobilization approaches. In
2012, this approach was complemented with efforts to advance alternative durable solutions
for IDPs that are not able to return to their places of origin. In 2013, NRC will continue these
approaches, but also incorporate several of its traditional core competencies.
In October 2012, NRC carried out a rapid assessment in WASH, Shelter and Education to
inform our response to the needs of the Syrian refugees in the Kurdish Region of Iraq during
2013.
Shelter:
In the Kurdish Region of Iraq (KR-I) – NRC will work on improving the living conditions of the
most vulnerable Syrian refugees residing in urban settings by upgrading the houses of families
that are hosting refugees in Dohuk and Erbil Governorates. This project targets 450
households. Baghdad – NRC will continue operating a programmed portfolio that combines
community mobilization, promotion of durable solutions and information dissemination and
advocacy to improve the current conditions and future prospects for IDPs in informal
settlements. In a smaller scale, NRC will work on in-situ upgrading of housing for highly
vulnerable families in settlements for which no solution appears imminent.
WASH:
KR-I – Water and sanitation is identified as a key priority in Domiz camp and NRC has engaged
with donors and humanitarian actors to address water and sanitation related challenges. In
addition, a WASH component might be added to the housing upgrading mentioned above to
improve the living conditions of the urban refugees. Baghdad – NRC will undertake small-scale
WASH projects in informal settlements in Baghdad, for the same communities being assisted
under the shelter program mentioned above targeting the most vulnerable IDPs.
Distribution:
NRC will carry out additional distributions of non-food items (NFIs) for newly arriving Syrian
refugees as needed.
Advocacy:
NRC‘s advocacy strategy aims to alert and mobilize relevant stakeholders; including
authorities, humanitarian partners, and donor countries, in response to the protection and
assistance needs of IDPs and refugees in Iraq.
38
Save the Children
Save the Children is the world's leading independent organization for children. Our vision is a
world in which every child attains the right to survival, protection, development and
participation. Our mission is to inspire breakthroughs in the way the world treats children and
to achieve immediate and lasting change in their lives.
Programs
Child Protection and Education
The Child Protection Program began operations in early 2009, after completing the training of
15 education supervisors from Sulaimaniyah, Khalar and Khanaqeen and the training of 225
teachers of fifteen basic schools (five schools from each of these districts) in the most
vulnerable areas of each district. The program focuses on improving Iraqi children's
psychosocial skills in the classroom and at home.
From May 2009 onwards, urgent renovation will be completed in nine of the schools to
provide a suitable area for these activities to be completed. Two other sub-projects will begin
— one a psychosocial project for children who are not in school with nine local NGOs (six
already identified), and another aiming to give psychosocial support to parents.
In-school Psychosocial Activities
Save the Children has continued to work in 15 schools in Sulaimaniyah, Khanaqeen and Khalar
governorates, reaching 2,350 children through psychosocial activities. Save the Children has
organized Child Wellbeing Days in each of the 15 schools, where approximately 10,000
children (almost half of them girls) participated. The activities include structured psychosocial
activities, traditional games and cultural activities that helped enhance understanding and
relationships among and between peers and teachers, and helped establish a sense of self-
respect and increased self-esteem among children. Save the Children also renovated and
resourced five safe spaces in the schools (three in Khanaqeen and two in Kalar).
Out of School Psychosocial Activities
In order to increase capacity at local/community level for child protection, Save the Children
has partnered with six local NGOs to establish out of school safe spaces at nine different
locations in Khalar, Khanaqeen and Sulaimaniyah The safe spaces are equipped with toys for
the 289 children currently attending them. Save the Children volunteers hold community
meetings with parents of those children who are attending the safe spaces in an effort to
encourage the parents to play a role and be involved in child protection activities. Save the
Children also provides a two-day protection/psychosocial/safe spaces training for staff and
partners.
Save the Children
Save the Children is the world's leading independent organization for children. Our vision is a
world in which every child attains the right to survival, protection, development and
participation. Our mission is to inspire breakthroughs in the way the world treats children and
to achieve immediate and lasting change in their lives.
Programs
Child Protection and Education
The Child Protection Program began operations in early 2009, after completing the training of
15 education supervisors from Sulaimaniyah, Khalar and Khanaqeen and the training of 225
teachers of fifteen basic schools (five schools from each of these districts) in the most
vulnerable areas of each district. The program focuses on improving Iraqi children's
psychosocial skills in the classroom and at home.
From May 2009 onwards, urgent renovation will be completed in nine of the schools to
provide a suitable area for these activities to be completed. Two other sub-projects will begin
— one a psychosocial project for children who are not in school with nine local NGOs (six
already identified), and another aiming to give psychosocial support to parents.
In-school Psychosocial Activities
Save the Children has continued to work in 15 schools in Sulaimaniyah, Khanaqeen and Khalar
governorates, reaching 2,350 children through psychosocial activities. Save the Children has
organized Child Wellbeing Days in each of the 15 schools, where approximately 10,000
children (almost half of them girls) participated. The activities include structured psychosocial
activities, traditional games and cultural activities that helped enhance understanding and
relationships among and between peers and teachers, and helped establish a sense of self-
respect and increased self-esteem among children. Save the Children also renovated and
resourced five safe spaces in the schools (three in Khanaqeen and two in Kalar).
Out of School Psychosocial Activities
In order to increase capacity at local/community level for child protection, Save the Children
has partnered with six local NGOs to establish out of school safe spaces at nine different
locations in Khalar, Khanaqeen and Sulaimaniyah The safe spaces are equipped with toys for
the 289 children currently attending them. Save the Children volunteers hold community
meetings with parents of those children who are attending the safe spaces in an effort to
encourage the parents to play a role and be involved in child protection activities. Save the
Children also provides a two-day protection/psychosocial/safe spaces training for staff and
partners.
39
Women for Women
Women for Women International provides women survivors of war, civil strife and other
conflicts with the tools and resources to move from crisis and poverty to stability and self-
sufficiency, thereby promoting viable civil societies. We're changing the world one woman at
a time.
Our programs
Our programs in Iraq include direct financial aid, rights awareness classes, job-skills training
and emotional support. The one-year program was developed for Iraq’s special challenges and
demands, and includes vocational training that helps women earn an income and support
themselves, through:
Hair-dressing — capitalizing on the demand for high-quality beauty services in Iraq
Screenprinting — women learn to operate machines that produce quality designs on items
such as mugs, plates, boxes, t-shirts and uniforms
Other courses include:
Embroidery
Beekeeping
Date-canning
Candle-making
Voice of old People (VOP)
VOP Is an Iraqi humanitarian non-governmental developmental not-for-profit organization
with legal personality working with and for family members to improve the quality of their
life.
We Are Aiming to:
We work for improving the quality of life for family members through various social,
educational and developmental activities
We Want to Achieve
Supporting older persons through the provision of regular home visits, advocacy activities,
awareness raising, livelihood support projects and capacity building.
• Lighten the burden of caring for frail older persons on their families.
• Capacity building for younger mothers on issues of child raising.
• Help solve problems through Self Help Groups technique.
• Leading awareness raising activities among the society on family related issues.
• Advocate to highlight the importance of gender equality amongst the family.
Women for Women
Women for Women International provides women survivors of war, civil strife and other
conflicts with the tools and resources to move from crisis and poverty to stability and self-
sufficiency, thereby promoting viable civil societies. We're changing the world one woman at
a time.
Our programs
Our programs in Iraq include direct financial aid, rights awareness classes, job-skills training
and emotional support. The one-year program was developed for Iraq’s special challenges and
demands, and includes vocational training that helps women earn an income and support
themselves, through:
Hair-dressing — capitalizing on the demand for high-quality beauty services in Iraq
Screenprinting — women learn to operate machines that produce quality designs on items
such as mugs, plates, boxes, t-shirts and uniforms
Other courses include:
Embroidery
Beekeeping
Date-canning
Candle-making
Voice of old People (VOP)
VOP Is an Iraqi humanitarian non-governmental developmental not-for-profit organization
with legal personality working with and for family members to improve the quality of their
life.
We Are Aiming to:
We work for improving the quality of life for family members through various social,
educational and developmental activities
We Want to Achieve
Supporting older persons through the provision of regular home visits, advocacy activities,
awareness raising, livelihood support projects and capacity building.
• Lighten the burden of caring for frail older persons on their families.
• Capacity building for younger mothers on issues of child raising.
• Help solve problems through Self Help Groups technique.
• Leading awareness raising activities among the society on family related issues.
• Advocate to highlight the importance of gender equality amongst the family.
40
Iraq - Largest Cities
Name
Population
Latitude/Longitude
Baghdad
5,672,513
33.341 / 44.401
Al Basrah
2,600,000
30.533 / 47.797
Al Mawsil
2,065,597
36.331 / 43.091
Al Basrat
2,015,483
30.495 / 47.817
Mosul
1,739,800
36.335 / 43.119
Erbil - Arbil
932,800
36.193 / 44.011
Abu Ghurayb
900,000
33.307 / 44.187
As Sulaymaniyah
723,170
35.565 / 45.433
Kirkuk
601,433
35.468 / 44.392
An Najaf al Ashraf
482,576
31.989 / 44.329
Iraq - Largest Cities
Name
Population
Latitude/Longitude
Baghdad
5,672,513
33.341 / 44.401
Al Basrah
2,600,000
30.533 / 47.797
Al Mawsil
2,065,597
36.331 / 43.091
Al Basrat
2,015,483
30.495 / 47.817
Mosul
1,739,800
36.335 / 43.119
Erbil - Arbil
932,800
36.193 / 44.011
Abu Ghurayb
900,000
33.307 / 44.187
As Sulaymaniyah
723,170
35.565 / 45.433
Kirkuk
601,433
35.468 / 44.392
An Najaf al Ashraf
482,576
31.989 / 44.329
41
Auxilium’s Capability
The Capital:
Baghdad
Baghdad
Baghdad is the capital of the Republic of Iraq, as well as the coterminous Baghdad Province.
The population of Baghdad as of 2011 is approximately 7,216,040, making it the largest city in
Iraq, the second largest city in the Arab World (after Cairo, Egypt), and the second largest city
in Western Asia (after Tehran, Iran).
Located along the Tigris River, the city was founded in the 8th century and became the capital
of the Abbasid Caliphate. Within a short time of its inception, Baghdad evolved into a
significant cultural, commercial, and intellectual center for the Islamic World. This in addition
to housing several key academic institutions (e.g. House of Wisdom) garnered the
Auxilium’s Capability
The Capital:
Baghdad
Baghdad
Baghdad is the capital of the Republic of Iraq, as well as the coterminous Baghdad Province.
The population of Baghdad as of 2011 is approximately 7,216,040, making it the largest city in
Iraq, the second largest city in the Arab World (after Cairo, Egypt), and the second largest city
in Western Asia (after Tehran, Iran).
Located along the Tigris River, the city was founded in the 8th century and became the capital
of the Abbasid Caliphate. Within a short time of its inception, Baghdad evolved into a
significant cultural, commercial, and intellectual center for the Islamic World. This in addition
to housing several key academic institutions (e.g. House of Wisdom) garnered the
42
city a worldwide reputation as the "Centre of Learning". Throughout the High
Middle Ages, Baghdad was considered to be the largest city in the world with
an estimated population of 1,200,000 people. The city was largely destroyed at the hands of
the Mongol Empire in 1258, resulting in a decline that would linger through many centuries
due to frequent plagues and multiple successive empires. With the recognition of Iraq as an
independent state (formerly the British Mandate of Mesopotamia) in 1938, Baghdad gradually
regained some of its former prominence as a significant center of Arabic culture.
In contemporary times the city has often faced severe infrastructural damage, most recently
due to the American-led foreign occupation in March 2003 that lasted until December 2011
and the subsequent sectarian violence. In recent years the city has been frequently subjected
to insurgency activities and terrorist attacks. Though the nation continues to work toward
rebuilding and reconciliation, as of 2012 Baghdad continues to be listed as one of the least
hospitable places in the world to live and was ranked by Mercer as the worst of 221 major
cities as measured by quality-of-life.
Administrative divisions
The city of Baghdad has 89 official neighborhoods within 9 districts. These official subdivisions
of the city served as administrative centers for the delivery of municipal services but until
2003 had no political function. Beginning in April 2003, the U.S. controlled Coalition
Provisional Authority (CPA) began the process of creating new functions for these. The process
initially focused on the election of neighborhood councils in the official neighborhood’s,
elected by neighborhood caucuses.
The CPA convened a series of meetings in each neighborhood to explain local government, to
describe the caucus election process and to encourage participants to spread the word and
bring friends, relatives and neighbor’s to subsequent meetings. Each neighborhood process
ultimately ended with a final meeting where candidates for the new neighborhood councils
identified themselves and asked their neighbor’s to vote for them.
Once all 88 (later increased to 89) neighborhood councils were in place, each neighborhood
council elected representatives from among their members to serve on one of the city's nine
district councils. The number of neighborhood representatives on a district council is based
upon the neighborhood’s population. The next step was to have each of the nine district
councils elect representatives from their membership to serve on the 37 member Baghdad
City Council. This three-tier system of local government connected the people of Baghdad to
the central government through their representatives from the neighborhood, through the
district, and up to the city council.
The same process was used to provide representative councils for the other communities in
Baghdad Province outside of the city itself. There, local councils were elected from 20
neighborhoods (Nahia) and these councils elected representatives from their members to
serve on six district councils (Qada). As within the city, the district councils then elected
city a worldwide reputation as the "Centre of Learning". Throughout the High
Middle Ages, Baghdad was considered to be the largest city in the world with
an estimated population of 1,200,000 people. The city was largely destroyed at the hands of
the Mongol Empire in 1258, resulting in a decline that would linger through many centuries
due to frequent plagues and multiple successive empires. With the recognition of Iraq as an
independent state (formerly the British Mandate of Mesopotamia) in 1938, Baghdad gradually
regained some of its former prominence as a significant center of Arabic culture.
In contemporary times the city has often faced severe infrastructural damage, most recently
due to the American-led foreign occupation in March 2003 that lasted until December 2011
and the subsequent sectarian violence. In recent years the city has been frequently subjected
to insurgency activities and terrorist attacks. Though the nation continues to work toward
rebuilding and reconciliation, as of 2012 Baghdad continues to be listed as one of the least
hospitable places in the world to live and was ranked by Mercer as the worst of 221 major
cities as measured by quality-of-life.
Administrative divisions
The city of Baghdad has 89 official neighborhoods within 9 districts. These official subdivisions
of the city served as administrative centers for the delivery of municipal services but until
2003 had no political function. Beginning in April 2003, the U.S. controlled Coalition
Provisional Authority (CPA) began the process of creating new functions for these. The process
initially focused on the election of neighborhood councils in the official neighborhood’s,
elected by neighborhood caucuses.
The CPA convened a series of meetings in each neighborhood to explain local government, to
describe the caucus election process and to encourage participants to spread the word and
bring friends, relatives and neighbor’s to subsequent meetings. Each neighborhood process
ultimately ended with a final meeting where candidates for the new neighborhood councils
identified themselves and asked their neighbor’s to vote for them.
Once all 88 (later increased to 89) neighborhood councils were in place, each neighborhood
council elected representatives from among their members to serve on one of the city's nine
district councils. The number of neighborhood representatives on a district council is based
upon the neighborhood’s population. The next step was to have each of the nine district
councils elect representatives from their membership to serve on the 37 member Baghdad
City Council. This three-tier system of local government connected the people of Baghdad to
the central government through their representatives from the neighborhood, through the
district, and up to the city council.
The same process was used to provide representative councils for the other communities in
Baghdad Province outside of the city itself. There, local councils were elected from 20
neighborhoods (Nahia) and these councils elected representatives from their members to
serve on six district councils (Qada). As within the city, the district councils then elected
43
representatives from among their members to serve on the 35-member
Baghdad Regional Council.
The first step in the establishment of the system of local government for Baghdad Province
was the election of the Baghdad Provincial Council. As before, the representatives to the
Provincial Council were elected by their peers from the lower councils in numbers
proportional to the population of the districts they represent. The 41 member Provincial
Council took office in February, 2004 and served until national elections held in January 2005,
when a new Provincial Council was elected.
This system of 127 separate councils may seem overly cumbersome but Baghdad Province is
home to approximately seven million people. At the lowest level, the neighborhood councils,
each council represents an average of 75,000 people.
The nine District Advisory Councils (DAC) are as follows:
• Adhamiyah
• Karkh
• Karadah
• Kadhimyah
• Mansour
• Sadr City (Thawra)
• Al Rashid
• Rusafa
• New Baghdad (Tisaa Nissan) (9 April)
The nine districts are subdivided into 89 smaller neighborhoods, which may make up sectors
of any of the districts above. The following is a selection (rather than a complete list) of these
neighborhoods:
• Al-Ghazaliya
• Al-A'amiriya
• Dora
• Karrada
• Al-Jadriya
• Al-Hebnaa
• Zayouna
• Al-Saydiya
• Hurriya City
• Al-Sa'adoon
• Al-Shu'ala
• Al-Mahmudiyah
• Bab Al-Moatham
representatives from among their members to serve on the 35-member
Baghdad Regional Council.
The first step in the establishment of the system of local government for Baghdad Province
was the election of the Baghdad Provincial Council. As before, the representatives to the
Provincial Council were elected by their peers from the lower councils in numbers
proportional to the population of the districts they represent. The 41 member Provincial
Council took office in February, 2004 and served until national elections held in January 2005,
when a new Provincial Council was elected.
This system of 127 separate councils may seem overly cumbersome but Baghdad Province is
home to approximately seven million people. At the lowest level, the neighborhood councils,
each council represents an average of 75,000 people.
The nine District Advisory Councils (DAC) are as follows:
• Adhamiyah
• Karkh
• Karadah
• Kadhimyah
• Mansour
• Sadr City (Thawra)
• Al Rashid
• Rusafa
• New Baghdad (Tisaa Nissan) (9 April)
The nine districts are subdivided into 89 smaller neighborhoods, which may make up sectors
of any of the districts above. The following is a selection (rather than a complete list) of these
neighborhoods:
• Al-Ghazaliya
• Al-A'amiriya
• Dora
• Karrada
• Al-Jadriya
• Al-Hebnaa
• Zayouna
• Al-Saydiya
• Hurriya City
• Al-Sa'adoon
• Al-Shu'ala
• Al-Mahmudiyah
• Bab Al-Moatham
44
• Al-Baya'
• Al-Za'franiya
• Hayy Ur
• Sha'ab
• Hayy Al-Jami'a
• Al-Adel
• Al Khadhraa
• Hayy Al-Jihad
• Hayy Al-A'amel
• Hayy Aoor
• Al-Horaya
• Hayy Al-Shurtta
• Yarmouk
• Jesr Diyala
• Abu Disher
• Raghiba Khatoun
• Arab Jijur
• Al-Awashosh
• Al-Fathel
• Al-Ubedy
• Al-Wazireya
Geography and climate
The city is located on a vast plain bisected by the River Tigris. The Tigris splits Baghdad in half,
with the eastern half being called 'Risafa' and the Western half known as 'Karkh'. The land on
which the city is built is almost entirely flat and low-lying, being of alluvial origin due to the
periodic large floods which have occurred on the river.
Baghdad has a subtropical arid climate (Köppen climate classification BWh) and is, in terms of
maximum temperatures, one of the hottest cities in the world. In the summer from June to
August, the average maximum temperature is as high as 44 °C (111 °F) accompanied by blazing
sunshine: rainfall has in fact been recorded on fewer than half a dozen occasions at this time
of year and has never exceeded 1 millimeter (0.04 in). Temperatures exceeding 50 °C (122 °F)
in the shade are by no means unheard of,[citation needed] and even at night temperatures in
summer are seldom below 24 °C (75 °F). Because the humidity is very low (usually under 10%)
due to Baghdad's distance from the marshy Persian Gulf, dust storms from the deserts to the
west are a normal occurrence during the summer.
Winters boast mild days and variable nights. From December to February, Baghdad has
maximum temperatures averaging 15.5 to 18.5 °C (60 to 65 °F), though highs above 70 °F (21
°C) are not unheard of. Morning temperatures can be chilly: the average January low is 3.8 °C
(38.8 °F) but lows below freezing only occur a couple of times per year.[citation needed]
• Al-Baya'
• Al-Za'franiya
• Hayy Ur
• Sha'ab
• Hayy Al-Jami'a
• Al-Adel
• Al Khadhraa
• Hayy Al-Jihad
• Hayy Al-A'amel
• Hayy Aoor
• Al-Horaya
• Hayy Al-Shurtta
• Yarmouk
• Jesr Diyala
• Abu Disher
• Raghiba Khatoun
• Arab Jijur
• Al-Awashosh
• Al-Fathel
• Al-Ubedy
• Al-Wazireya
Geography and climate
The city is located on a vast plain bisected by the River Tigris. The Tigris splits Baghdad in half,
with the eastern half being called 'Risafa' and the Western half known as 'Karkh'. The land on
which the city is built is almost entirely flat and low-lying, being of alluvial origin due to the
periodic large floods which have occurred on the river.
Baghdad has a subtropical arid climate (Köppen climate classification BWh) and is, in terms of
maximum temperatures, one of the hottest cities in the world. In the summer from June to
August, the average maximum temperature is as high as 44 °C (111 °F) accompanied by blazing
sunshine: rainfall has in fact been recorded on fewer than half a dozen occasions at this time
of year and has never exceeded 1 millimeter (0.04 in). Temperatures exceeding 50 °C (122 °F)
in the shade are by no means unheard of,[citation needed] and even at night temperatures in
summer are seldom below 24 °C (75 °F). Because the humidity is very low (usually under 10%)
due to Baghdad's distance from the marshy Persian Gulf, dust storms from the deserts to the
west are a normal occurrence during the summer.
Winters boast mild days and variable nights. From December to February, Baghdad has
maximum temperatures averaging 15.5 to 18.5 °C (60 to 65 °F), though highs above 70 °F (21
°C) are not unheard of. Morning temperatures can be chilly: the average January low is 3.8 °C
(38.8 °F) but lows below freezing only occur a couple of times per year.[citation needed]
45
Annual rainfall, almost entirely confined to the period from November to
March, averages around 150 mm (5.91 in), but has been as high as 338 mm
(13.31 in) and as low as 37 mm (1.46 in). On January 11, 2008, light snow fell across Baghdad
for the first time in memory.
Education
The Mustansiriya Madrasah was established in 1227 by the Abbasid Caliph al-Mustansir. The
name was changed to Al-Mustansiriya University in 1963. The University of Baghdad is the
largest university in Iraq and the second largest in the Arab world.
Universities
• Al-Nahrain University
• Al-Mustansiriya University
• Iraqi University
• University of Baghdad
• University of Technology, Iraq
Culture
The Iraqi National Orchestra, officially founded in 1959, performing a concert in Iraq in July
2007.
Baghdad has always played an important role in Arab cultural life and has been the home of
noted writers, musicians and visual artists. Famous Arab poets and singers such as Nizar
Qabbani, Umm Kulthum, Fairuz, Salah Al-Hamdani, Ilham al-Madfai and others wrote
beautiful poems and sang for Baghdad.
The dialect of Arabic spoken in Baghdad today differs from that of other large urban centres
in Iraq, having features more characteristic of nomadic Arabic dialects (Verseegh, The Arabic
Language). It is possible that this was caused by the repopulating of the city with rural
residents after the multiple sacks of the late Middle Ages.
Institutions
Two ballet dancers of the Iraqi National Ballet (which is based in Baghdad) performing a ballet
show in Iraq in 2007.
Many events are hosted at the Baghdad Convention Center
Some of the important cultural institutions in the city include:
• Iraqi National Orchestra – Rehearsals and performances were briefly interrupted
during the Second Gulf War, but have since returned to normal.
• National Theatre of Iraq – The theatre was looted during the 2003 Invasion of Iraq,
but efforts are underway to restore the theatre.
Annual rainfall, almost entirely confined to the period from November to
March, averages around 150 mm (5.91 in), but has been as high as 338 mm
(13.31 in) and as low as 37 mm (1.46 in). On January 11, 2008, light snow fell across Baghdad
for the first time in memory.
Education
The Mustansiriya Madrasah was established in 1227 by the Abbasid Caliph al-Mustansir. The
name was changed to Al-Mustansiriya University in 1963. The University of Baghdad is the
largest university in Iraq and the second largest in the Arab world.
Universities
• Al-Nahrain University
• Al-Mustansiriya University
• Iraqi University
• University of Baghdad
• University of Technology, Iraq
Culture
The Iraqi National Orchestra, officially founded in 1959, performing a concert in Iraq in July
2007.
Baghdad has always played an important role in Arab cultural life and has been the home of
noted writers, musicians and visual artists. Famous Arab poets and singers such as Nizar
Qabbani, Umm Kulthum, Fairuz, Salah Al-Hamdani, Ilham al-Madfai and others wrote
beautiful poems and sang for Baghdad.
The dialect of Arabic spoken in Baghdad today differs from that of other large urban centres
in Iraq, having features more characteristic of nomadic Arabic dialects (Verseegh, The Arabic
Language). It is possible that this was caused by the repopulating of the city with rural
residents after the multiple sacks of the late Middle Ages.
Institutions
Two ballet dancers of the Iraqi National Ballet (which is based in Baghdad) performing a ballet
show in Iraq in 2007.
Many events are hosted at the Baghdad Convention Center
Some of the important cultural institutions in the city include:
• Iraqi National Orchestra – Rehearsals and performances were briefly interrupted
during the Second Gulf War, but have since returned to normal.
• National Theatre of Iraq – The theatre was looted during the 2003 Invasion of Iraq,
but efforts are underway to restore the theatre.
46
• The live theatre scene received a boost during the 1990s when UN sanctions
limited the import of foreign films. As many as 30 movie theatres were reported to
have been converted to live stages, producing a wide range of comedies and dramatic
productions.
• Institutions offering cultural education in Baghdad include the Academy of Music,
Institute of Fine Arts, and the Music and Ballet school Baghdad. Baghdad is also home
to a number of museums which housed artifacts and relics of ancient civilization;
many of these were stolen, and the museums looted, during the widespread chaos
immediately after United States forces entered the city.
During the 2003 occupation of Iraq, AFN Iraq ("Freedom Radio") broadcast news and
entertainment within Baghdad, among other locations. There is also a private radio station
called "Dijlah" (named after the Arabic word for the Tigris River) that was created in 2004 as
Iraq's first independent talk radio station. Radio Dijlah offices, in the Jamia neighborhood of
Baghdad, have been attacked on several occasions.
Airports
Baghdad International Airport, and also Saddam International Airport originally, (IATA: BGW,
ICAO: ORBI), is Iraq's largest airport, located in a suburb about 16 km (9.9 mi) west of
downtown Baghdad in the Baghdad Governorate. It is the home base for Iraq's national airline,
Iraqi Airways. It is often abbreviated BIAP, although BIAP is not an official airport code.
Sport
Baghdad is home to some of the most successful football (soccer) teams in Iraq, the biggest
being Al Quwa Al Jawiya (Airforce club), Al Zawra, Al Shurta (Police), and Al Talaba (Students).
The largest stadium in Baghdad is Al Shaab Stadium which was opened in 1966. Another, but
much larger stadium, is still in the opening stages of construction.
The city has also had a strong tradition of horse racing ever since World War I, known to
Baghdadis simply as 'Races'. There are reports of pressures by the Islamists to stop this
tradition due to the associated gambling.
Baghdad Hospitals: A Summary
The growth and stabilization of the medical infrastructure has time and again, been marred
by such internal strife. The health care sector is controlled both by the government and by
private players, but there is a shortage that is gradually being compensated for. Tourists can
expect to get basic facilities in times of a medical need but in case of very major problems,
they need to be shifted to some other place. As a tourist, you need to be extremely careful
and must pack in basic medicines and arrangements to combat things like cuts, motion
sickness, minor aches and similar ailments.
• The live theatre scene received a boost during the 1990s when UN sanctions
limited the import of foreign films. As many as 30 movie theatres were reported to
have been converted to live stages, producing a wide range of comedies and dramatic
productions.
• Institutions offering cultural education in Baghdad include the Academy of Music,
Institute of Fine Arts, and the Music and Ballet school Baghdad. Baghdad is also home
to a number of museums which housed artifacts and relics of ancient civilization;
many of these were stolen, and the museums looted, during the widespread chaos
immediately after United States forces entered the city.
During the 2003 occupation of Iraq, AFN Iraq ("Freedom Radio") broadcast news and
entertainment within Baghdad, among other locations. There is also a private radio station
called "Dijlah" (named after the Arabic word for the Tigris River) that was created in 2004 as
Iraq's first independent talk radio station. Radio Dijlah offices, in the Jamia neighborhood of
Baghdad, have been attacked on several occasions.
Airports
Baghdad International Airport, and also Saddam International Airport originally, (IATA: BGW,
ICAO: ORBI), is Iraq's largest airport, located in a suburb about 16 km (9.9 mi) west of
downtown Baghdad in the Baghdad Governorate. It is the home base for Iraq's national airline,
Iraqi Airways. It is often abbreviated BIAP, although BIAP is not an official airport code.
Sport
Baghdad is home to some of the most successful football (soccer) teams in Iraq, the biggest
being Al Quwa Al Jawiya (Airforce club), Al Zawra, Al Shurta (Police), and Al Talaba (Students).
The largest stadium in Baghdad is Al Shaab Stadium which was opened in 1966. Another, but
much larger stadium, is still in the opening stages of construction.
The city has also had a strong tradition of horse racing ever since World War I, known to
Baghdadis simply as 'Races'. There are reports of pressures by the Islamists to stop this
tradition due to the associated gambling.
Baghdad Hospitals: A Summary
The growth and stabilization of the medical infrastructure has time and again, been marred
by such internal strife. The health care sector is controlled both by the government and by
private players, but there is a shortage that is gradually being compensated for. Tourists can
expect to get basic facilities in times of a medical need but in case of very major problems,
they need to be shifted to some other place. As a tourist, you need to be extremely careful
and must pack in basic medicines and arrangements to combat things like cuts, motion
sickness, minor aches and similar ailments.
47
The pharmacies are open at certain hours that vary from shop to shop. Some
pharmacies offer round the clock service, though. Be sure of carrying all
prescriptions and proofs that you need like medicines that you are using for some valid
reason. Baghdad pharmacies accept cash like their hospitals. The hospitals charge minimal
fees if they are public sector controlled. The doctors demand cash for every service used. They
can comprehend English mostly. Inform the doctor of any existing medical condition of the
patient for convenience. Remember that you will be asked to pay even on simply entering the
hospital premises. Health insurances that you own must be modified to cover costs in
Baghdad. You need to get a refund later, as the insurance is not accepted on spot.
The hygienic standards are not of very good levels in most hospitals. The hospitals often face
staff shortage, though they have fairly good equipment and ample number of beds. Due to
cultural differences, you might face a little odd but once you are willing to ignore these and
approach the staff and consultants professionally, you will be at peace. The most popular picks
in Baghdad in case if medical needs arise, are the Ibn Sina Hospital, Baghdad Medical City,
Karkh Hospital, Al-Kindi hospital, al-Rahebat Hospital, and the Al-Yermouk hospital.
List of Hospitals
Name Location Contact Details Capabilities
& Services
Shahid Adnan Surgical Baba Muadham Street in
Rusafa (Medical City)
Bab Al-Moatham
964-1-4140651 672 Beds
Baghdad teaching hospital Bab Al-Moatham 964-1-7181761 998 Beds
Child Protection Teaching
Hospital
Bab Al-Moatham 497 Beds
Private Nursing Ho me
Hospital
Bab Al-Moatham 964-1-8852763 289 Beds
Al Kindi General Teaching
Hospital
Mohammad Al Kasiem
street, 7 Nisan District 506
Rusafa
964-1-4168021 333 Beds
Al Yarmuk General Teaching Mansour Municipality
Yarmouk
964-1-5429120 770 Beds
Ibn Rushd Psychiatry &
Addiction Hospital
Al Andulus 74 Beds
Al-Rashad Psychiatric Hospital Rusafa 1335 Beds
Ibn Al Haitham Teaching Karrada, Andulus 400 Beds
Al Nuaman General Hospital Adhamiyah 220 Beds
Al Qadisiya General Hospital Sadr City 490 Beds
General Hospital Sadr City 256 Beds
Maternity Hospital Sadr City 288 Beds
Ibn Al balady Maternity &
Children's Hospital
Sadr City 284 Beds
Al Hibibiya Maternity Hospital Sadr City, Habibiya
Al Alwaiya Maternity Teaching Alwaiya, Karadah 964-1-7173056 332 Beds
The pharmacies are open at certain hours that vary from shop to shop. Some
pharmacies offer round the clock service, though. Be sure of carrying all
prescriptions and proofs that you need like medicines that you are using for some valid
reason. Baghdad pharmacies accept cash like their hospitals. The hospitals charge minimal
fees if they are public sector controlled. The doctors demand cash for every service used. They
can comprehend English mostly. Inform the doctor of any existing medical condition of the
patient for convenience. Remember that you will be asked to pay even on simply entering the
hospital premises. Health insurances that you own must be modified to cover costs in
Baghdad. You need to get a refund later, as the insurance is not accepted on spot.
The hygienic standards are not of very good levels in most hospitals. The hospitals often face
staff shortage, though they have fairly good equipment and ample number of beds. Due to
cultural differences, you might face a little odd but once you are willing to ignore these and
approach the staff and consultants professionally, you will be at peace. The most popular picks
in Baghdad in case if medical needs arise, are the Ibn Sina Hospital, Baghdad Medical City,
Karkh Hospital, Al-Kindi hospital, al-Rahebat Hospital, and the Al-Yermouk hospital.
List of Hospitals
Name Location Contact Details Capabilities
& Services
Shahid Adnan Surgical Baba Muadham Street in
Rusafa (Medical City)
Bab Al-Moatham
964-1-4140651 672 Beds
Baghdad teaching hospital Bab Al-Moatham 964-1-7181761 998 Beds
Child Protection Teaching
Hospital
Bab Al-Moatham 497 Beds
Private Nursing Ho me
Hospital
Bab Al-Moatham 964-1-8852763 289 Beds
Al Kindi General Teaching
Hospital
Mohammad Al Kasiem
street, 7 Nisan District 506
Rusafa
964-1-4168021 333 Beds
Al Yarmuk General Teaching Mansour Municipality
Yarmouk
964-1-5429120 770 Beds
Ibn Rushd Psychiatry &
Addiction Hospital
Al Andulus 74 Beds
Al-Rashad Psychiatric Hospital Rusafa 1335 Beds
Ibn Al Haitham Teaching Karrada, Andulus 400 Beds
Al Nuaman General Hospital Adhamiyah 220 Beds
Al Qadisiya General Hospital Sadr City 490 Beds
General Hospital Sadr City 256 Beds
Maternity Hospital Sadr City 288 Beds
Ibn Al balady Maternity &
Children's Hospital
Sadr City 284 Beds
Al Hibibiya Maternity Hospital Sadr City, Habibiya
Al Alwaiya Maternity Teaching Alwaiya, Karadah 964-1-7173056 332 Beds
48
Al Alwaiya Children Teaching
Hospital
Alwaiya, Karadah 964-1-7192913
elwia_pediatrics
@yahoo.com
211 Beds
Al Kadhimyia Medical
College/University Hospital
Kadhimiya 964-1-5222111
kadhimiyiaCM@
yahoo.com
630 Beds
Al Kadhmiya Hospital for
Children
Kadhimiya 964-1-4222055 135 Beds
Al Karkh General Hospital Near Al Sarafia bridge
Karkh
964-1-5375919 198 Beds
Ibn Al Nafis Vascular and
Cardiac Hospital
Rusafa 964-1-7195111 170 Beds
Center for Cardiology Karkh 166 Beds
Center for Reconstructive &
Plastic Surgery (Al Wasiti)
Andalus 126 Beds
Al Noor General Hospital Kadhimiya 211 Beds
Al Karama Teaching Hospital Al Sheekh Maroof Street
No.6
445 Beds
Ibn Sina Hospital Green Zone 964-1-8855992
Al-Liquia Maternity Hospital Karkh 128 Beds
Radiology and Nuclear
Medicine Institute
Yarmouk Irt_baghdad@y
ahoo.com
73 Beds
Al Jumla Neuro-Surgical
Hospital
Yarmouk 964-1-8854983 101 Beds
Ibn Al Khatib Infectious
Diseases Hospital
East Karradah (Al-Jiser)
ibn.alkhateeb@
yahoo.com
208 Beds
Ibn Zuhr for Chest Disease
Hospital (for Infectious
Diseases)
East Karradah 292 Beds
Al-Za'franiya General Hospital Al-Za'franiya zafahospital
@yahoo.com
790192588
Al Mada'in Al-Mada'in 56 Beds
Al Mahmodia General
Hospital
Mahmudiya 59 Beds
Abu Ghraib General Hospital Abu Ghraib 964-1-5112313 45 Beds
AL Furat General Hospital Near Abbas Ibn Firnas Sqr. 96 Beds
Al Hayat Hospital 52 Street, Karada
Al Rahebat Karada inside Street,
Karada district
Eye Specialty private Hospital Al Wazerya - Moh'd
Qasem St.
964-1-4253127
Alsalama Hospital Baghdad - Al yarmouk
Near Al yarmouk gas
station
964-1-5415446
964-1-5422286
Al Alwaiya Children Teaching
Hospital
Alwaiya, Karadah 964-1-7192913
elwia_pediatrics
@yahoo.com
211 Beds
Al Kadhimyia Medical
College/University Hospital
Kadhimiya 964-1-5222111
kadhimiyiaCM@
yahoo.com
630 Beds
Al Kadhmiya Hospital for
Children
Kadhimiya 964-1-4222055 135 Beds
Al Karkh General Hospital Near Al Sarafia bridge
Karkh
964-1-5375919 198 Beds
Ibn Al Nafis Vascular and
Cardiac Hospital
Rusafa 964-1-7195111 170 Beds
Center for Cardiology Karkh 166 Beds
Center for Reconstructive &
Plastic Surgery (Al Wasiti)
Andalus 126 Beds
Al Noor General Hospital Kadhimiya 211 Beds
Al Karama Teaching Hospital Al Sheekh Maroof Street
No.6
445 Beds
Ibn Sina Hospital Green Zone 964-1-8855992
Al-Liquia Maternity Hospital Karkh 128 Beds
Radiology and Nuclear
Medicine Institute
Yarmouk Irt_baghdad@y
ahoo.com
73 Beds
Al Jumla Neuro-Surgical
Hospital
Yarmouk 964-1-8854983 101 Beds
Ibn Al Khatib Infectious
Diseases Hospital
East Karradah (Al-Jiser)
ibn.alkhateeb@
yahoo.com
208 Beds
Ibn Zuhr for Chest Disease
Hospital (for Infectious
Diseases)
East Karradah 292 Beds
Al-Za'franiya General Hospital Al-Za'franiya zafahospital
@yahoo.com
790192588
Al Mada'in Al-Mada'in 56 Beds
Al Mahmodia General
Hospital
Mahmudiya 59 Beds
Abu Ghraib General Hospital Abu Ghraib 964-1-5112313 45 Beds
AL Furat General Hospital Near Abbas Ibn Firnas Sqr. 96 Beds
Al Hayat Hospital 52 Street, Karada
Al Rahebat Karada inside Street,
Karada district
Eye Specialty private Hospital Al Wazerya - Moh'd
Qasem St.
964-1-4253127
Alsalama Hospital Baghdad - Al yarmouk
Near Al yarmouk gas
station
964-1-5415446
964-1-5422286
49
Dijlah Hospital Al-Maghrib Quarter 306-
22-4
964-1-425-2501
Al Jarah Hospital Al Nedhal st. - Al Andalus
Sq.
964-1-718-6747
964-1-718-5916
Ibn Al Bitar government
hospital
964-1-8885724
Al Qana government hospital 964-1-7613262
Red Cross Hospital 964-1-5372924
Blood Bank Hospital 964-1-4168051
Medical City Hospital 964-1-4158219
Al Khadra Civil Hospital 964-1-7786846
Al Jaderiah Civil Hospital 964-1-7782872
Dar Al Najah Hospital 964-1-7180682
Dr. Abd Al Majeed Civil
Hospital
964-1-7780091
Al Khaial Hospital 964-1-4220062
Al Harithieh Civil Hospital 964-1-5413770
Al Shifa' Civil Hospital 964-1-5560187
Shikh Zaied Hospital 964-1-7199051
Al Waziria Civil Hospital 964-1-4253169
Childrens Central Hospital 964-1-5429462
Al Mostansarieh Civil Hospital 964-1-4258022
Fatema Alzahra Hospital Alzahra
albattol@yahoo
.com
Alzahra
[email protected]
Ahssa_alzahra@
yahoo.com
Elwia Childern hospital elwia_pediatric
[email protected]
Neurosurgical Education
Hospital
Aljumla2009@Y
ahoo.com
statistics_alruss
[email protected]
om
Dijlah Hospital Al-Maghrib Quarter 306-
22-4
964-1-425-2501
Al Jarah Hospital Al Nedhal st. - Al Andalus
Sq.
964-1-718-6747
964-1-718-5916
Ibn Al Bitar government
hospital
964-1-8885724
Al Qana government hospital 964-1-7613262
Red Cross Hospital 964-1-5372924
Blood Bank Hospital 964-1-4168051
Medical City Hospital 964-1-4158219
Al Khadra Civil Hospital 964-1-7786846
Al Jaderiah Civil Hospital 964-1-7782872
Dar Al Najah Hospital 964-1-7180682
Dr. Abd Al Majeed Civil
Hospital
964-1-7780091
Al Khaial Hospital 964-1-4220062
Al Harithieh Civil Hospital 964-1-5413770
Al Shifa' Civil Hospital 964-1-5560187
Shikh Zaied Hospital 964-1-7199051
Al Waziria Civil Hospital 964-1-4253169
Childrens Central Hospital 964-1-5429462
Al Mostansarieh Civil Hospital 964-1-4258022
Fatema Alzahra Hospital Alzahra
albattol@yahoo
.com
Alzahra
[email protected]
Ahssa_alzahra@
yahoo.com
Elwia Childern hospital elwia_pediatric
[email protected]
Neurosurgical Education
Hospital
Aljumla2009@Y
ahoo.com
statistics_alruss
[email protected]
om
50
City: Mosul
Mosul
Is a city in northern Iraq and the capital of the Nineveh Province, some 400 km (250 mi)
northwest of Baghdad. The original city stands on the west bank of the Tigris River, opposite
the ancient Assyrian city of Nineveh on the east bank, but the metropolitan area has now
grown to encompass substantial areas on both banks, with five bridges linking the two sides.
The majority of its population is Arab (with Assyrians, Turcoman and Kurdish minorities). It is
Iraq's third largest city after Baghdad and Basra.
The fabric Muslin, long manufactured here, is named after this city.[2] Another historically
important product of the area is Mosul marble.
City: Mosul
Mosul
Is a city in northern Iraq and the capital of the Nineveh Province, some 400 km (250 mi)
northwest of Baghdad. The original city stands on the west bank of the Tigris River, opposite
the ancient Assyrian city of Nineveh on the east bank, but the metropolitan area has now
grown to encompass substantial areas on both banks, with five bridges linking the two sides.
The majority of its population is Arab (with Assyrians, Turcoman and Kurdish minorities). It is
Iraq's third largest city after Baghdad and Basra.
The fabric Muslin, long manufactured here, is named after this city.[2] Another historically
important product of the area is Mosul marble.
51
In 1987, the city's population was 664,221 people; the 2002 population
estimate was 1,740,000, and by 2008 was estimated to be 1,800,000.[3] People
from Mosul are called Maslawis.
The city's mayor is Mohsin Mohammed Abdulazeez.
The city of Mosul is home to the University of Mosul, one of the largest educational and
research centers in Iraq and the Middle East.
The city is also a historic center for the Nestorian Christianity of the Assyrians, containing the
tombs of several Old Testament prophets such as Jonah.
Demographics
This city is indicative of the mingling ethnic and religious cultures of Iraq. There is a Sunni Arab
majority in urban areas, such as downtown Mosul on the Tigris. Across the Tigris and further
north in the suburban areas, thousands of Assyrians, Kurds, Turkmens, Shabaks and
Armenians, make up the rest of Mosul's population. Sunni Arabs make up the majority of the
city's population. Sunni Kurds, Yezidi Kurds, Turkmens and Assyrians are also present. Shabaks
are concentrated on the eastern outskirts of the city.
The population of Mosul has progressively become a mixture of Arabs, Armenians, Assyrians,
Kurds, Turkmens. The Arabization plans were counteracted in the 1980s by former Iraqi
president Saddam Hussein and his Ba'ath party, which forced some of those minorities to
move outside the city, back into Kurdish regions.
The city is close to the Kurdish regions of Iraq. Kurdish fighters have been moving into the city
since the fall of the Ba'ath government, causing some tensions with the Sunni Arabs of the
city. Clashes have erupted in recent months between Sunni Arabs in Mosul and Kurdish
fighters entering the city from the Kurdish regional governorates.
Religion
The majority of people in Mosul are Sunni Muslims, though Mosul had a proportion of
Assyrian Christians who also have a presence in the villages around of Mosul in ancient
Nineveh since the foundation of the city (majority follow the Chaldean Catholic Church, the
Syriac Catholic Church and the Syriac Orthodox Church, and a minority follow the Assyrian
Church of the East). There is also a number of Arab Christians who belong to the Greek
Orthodox Church, the Roman Catholic Church, the Chaldean Catholic Church and the Syriac
Orthodox Church, and have a number of Protestant churches. Other religions, such as Yazidi,
Yarsan and Mandean religions also call Mosul home.
Long before the Muslim conquest of the 7th century, the old city Nineveh was Christianized
when the Assyrians converted to Christianity during the 1st and 2nd centuries.
In 1987, the city's population was 664,221 people; the 2002 population
estimate was 1,740,000, and by 2008 was estimated to be 1,800,000.[3] People
from Mosul are called Maslawis.
The city's mayor is Mohsin Mohammed Abdulazeez.
The city of Mosul is home to the University of Mosul, one of the largest educational and
research centers in Iraq and the Middle East.
The city is also a historic center for the Nestorian Christianity of the Assyrians, containing the
tombs of several Old Testament prophets such as Jonah.
Demographics
This city is indicative of the mingling ethnic and religious cultures of Iraq. There is a Sunni Arab
majority in urban areas, such as downtown Mosul on the Tigris. Across the Tigris and further
north in the suburban areas, thousands of Assyrians, Kurds, Turkmens, Shabaks and
Armenians, make up the rest of Mosul's population. Sunni Arabs make up the majority of the
city's population. Sunni Kurds, Yezidi Kurds, Turkmens and Assyrians are also present. Shabaks
are concentrated on the eastern outskirts of the city.
The population of Mosul has progressively become a mixture of Arabs, Armenians, Assyrians,
Kurds, Turkmens. The Arabization plans were counteracted in the 1980s by former Iraqi
president Saddam Hussein and his Ba'ath party, which forced some of those minorities to
move outside the city, back into Kurdish regions.
The city is close to the Kurdish regions of Iraq. Kurdish fighters have been moving into the city
since the fall of the Ba'ath government, causing some tensions with the Sunni Arabs of the
city. Clashes have erupted in recent months between Sunni Arabs in Mosul and Kurdish
fighters entering the city from the Kurdish regional governorates.
Religion
The majority of people in Mosul are Sunni Muslims, though Mosul had a proportion of
Assyrian Christians who also have a presence in the villages around of Mosul in ancient
Nineveh since the foundation of the city (majority follow the Chaldean Catholic Church, the
Syriac Catholic Church and the Syriac Orthodox Church, and a minority follow the Assyrian
Church of the East). There is also a number of Arab Christians who belong to the Greek
Orthodox Church, the Roman Catholic Church, the Chaldean Catholic Church and the Syriac
Orthodox Church, and have a number of Protestant churches. Other religions, such as Yazidi,
Yarsan and Mandean religions also call Mosul home.
Long before the Muslim conquest of the 7th century, the old city Nineveh was Christianized
when the Assyrians converted to Christianity during the 1st and 2nd centuries.
52
Despite institutional ethnic persecution by various political powers, including
the Ba'ath Party regime, Mosul has maintained a multicultural and multi-
religious mosaic. The difficult history of Mosul, however, still contributes to tensions among
its modern inhabitants.
Mosul had a Jewish population. Like most Iraqi Jews, most left in 1950–51. A larger number
may have converted to Islam in the past century but some traditions have been retained. It is
very difficult to give a reliable estimate of the Jewish population in Iraq. Most Iraqi Jews have
moved to Israel, while some to the United States. A rabbi in the American army found an
abandoned, dilapidated synagogue in Mosul dating back to the 13th century.
Language
The Arabic of Mosul is considered to be much softer in its pronunciation than that of Baghdad,
bearing considerable resemblance to Levantine dialects, particularly Aleppan Arabic. Iraqis
sometimes describe it as the 'feminine version' of Iraqi Arabic.
Mosul Arabic is influenced largely by the languages of every ethnic minority group co-existing
in the city: Kurds, Turkmen, Armenians, Assyrians, as well as others – thus infusing Kurmanji
Kurdish, Turkmen, Armenian, and Neo-Aramaic. Each minority language is respectively spoken
alongside Arabic.
Arabic is the lingua franca of communication, education, business, and official work to the
majority of the city's residents. Upper class and university-educated residents usually have
varying degrees of proficiency in English as well.
Climate
Mosul experiences a hot semi-arid climate with extremely hot, almost rainless summers and
cool, rainy winters. Mosul, although not at a particularly high elevation, still receives much
more rain than most of Iraq. Rainfall is close to three times that of Baghdad and over twice
that of Basra, despite being much further from the Persian Gulf than either. It is in fact
adequate for rain-fed cropping of wheat and barley. The Kurdish regions to the north are even
wetter.
Education
The city's largest university, the University of Mosul was founded on 1 April 1967, by merging
with College of Medicine which was opened in 1959.
This considered as the main interest in the government of Nineveh which consists of Mosul
university and “AL Hadbaa” college as well as the college of technology and many technical
Despite institutional ethnic persecution by various political powers, including
the Ba'ath Party regime, Mosul has maintained a multicultural and multi-
religious mosaic. The difficult history of Mosul, however, still contributes to tensions among
its modern inhabitants.
Mosul had a Jewish population. Like most Iraqi Jews, most left in 1950–51. A larger number
may have converted to Islam in the past century but some traditions have been retained. It is
very difficult to give a reliable estimate of the Jewish population in Iraq. Most Iraqi Jews have
moved to Israel, while some to the United States. A rabbi in the American army found an
abandoned, dilapidated synagogue in Mosul dating back to the 13th century.
Language
The Arabic of Mosul is considered to be much softer in its pronunciation than that of Baghdad,
bearing considerable resemblance to Levantine dialects, particularly Aleppan Arabic. Iraqis
sometimes describe it as the 'feminine version' of Iraqi Arabic.
Mosul Arabic is influenced largely by the languages of every ethnic minority group co-existing
in the city: Kurds, Turkmen, Armenians, Assyrians, as well as others – thus infusing Kurmanji
Kurdish, Turkmen, Armenian, and Neo-Aramaic. Each minority language is respectively spoken
alongside Arabic.
Arabic is the lingua franca of communication, education, business, and official work to the
majority of the city's residents. Upper class and university-educated residents usually have
varying degrees of proficiency in English as well.
Climate
Mosul experiences a hot semi-arid climate with extremely hot, almost rainless summers and
cool, rainy winters. Mosul, although not at a particularly high elevation, still receives much
more rain than most of Iraq. Rainfall is close to three times that of Baghdad and over twice
that of Basra, despite being much further from the Persian Gulf than either. It is in fact
adequate for rain-fed cropping of wheat and barley. The Kurdish regions to the north are even
wetter.
Education
The city's largest university, the University of Mosul was founded on 1 April 1967, by merging
with College of Medicine which was opened in 1959.
This considered as the main interest in the government of Nineveh which consists of Mosul
university and “AL Hadbaa” college as well as the college of technology and many technical
53
institutes. There are more than 263 high schools, 14 vocational schools:
(commercial agriculture industry).
Eight institutes for training. 45 nursery school for kids. 1328 primary school. Mosul university
is the most important university in Iraq which includes 22 colleges and 122 departments in
many fields.
Airports
Mosul International Airport (IATA: OSM, ICAO: ORBM) is an airport located at Mosul, Iraq,
with a concrete runway. It became a civil airport in 1992 with the construction of a new
terminal. After undergoing major renovations to be able to reach international standards and
category 1 status, it reopened as a civilian airport on December 2, 2007. The airport does not
offer any domestic flights; all commercial flights to and from the airport are to international
destinations outside of Iraq.
Hospitals and Medical Facilities
General Hospital Talla'fer (Telafer General Hospital)
General Hospital Sinjar
General Hospital Al Shikhan
General Hospital Al Hamdania
Private Hospital Al Rabi' Private
Private Hospital Al Rahmah Private
Private Hospital Ninawa Private
Private Hospital Al Zahrawi Private
Specialized Hospital Al Batool for Gynaecology & Obstetrics
Specialized Hospital Eben Al Athir for Children (Ibn Alatheer)
Specialized Hospital Al Khansaa Maternity & Children
Specialized Hospital Al Kamaliya (Specialized)
Specialized Hospital Hazem Al Hafez (Oncology and Nuclear Medicine)
Al-Salam Teaching Hospital
Ibn Seena Teaching Hospital
Al-Jamhuri Teaching Hospital
Mosul General Hospital
Al Shifaa Hospital for Infectious Diseases
institutes. There are more than 263 high schools, 14 vocational schools:
(commercial agriculture industry).
Eight institutes for training. 45 nursery school for kids. 1328 primary school. Mosul university
is the most important university in Iraq which includes 22 colleges and 122 departments in
many fields.
Airports
Mosul International Airport (IATA: OSM, ICAO: ORBM) is an airport located at Mosul, Iraq,
with a concrete runway. It became a civil airport in 1992 with the construction of a new
terminal. After undergoing major renovations to be able to reach international standards and
category 1 status, it reopened as a civilian airport on December 2, 2007. The airport does not
offer any domestic flights; all commercial flights to and from the airport are to international
destinations outside of Iraq.
Hospitals and Medical Facilities
General Hospital Talla'fer (Telafer General Hospital)
General Hospital Sinjar
General Hospital Al Shikhan
General Hospital Al Hamdania
Private Hospital Al Rabi' Private
Private Hospital Al Rahmah Private
Private Hospital Ninawa Private
Private Hospital Al Zahrawi Private
Specialized Hospital Al Batool for Gynaecology & Obstetrics
Specialized Hospital Eben Al Athir for Children (Ibn Alatheer)
Specialized Hospital Al Khansaa Maternity & Children
Specialized Hospital Al Kamaliya (Specialized)
Specialized Hospital Hazem Al Hafez (Oncology and Nuclear Medicine)
Al-Salam Teaching Hospital
Ibn Seena Teaching Hospital
Al-Jamhuri Teaching Hospital
Mosul General Hospital
Al Shifaa Hospital for Infectious Diseases
54
City: Kirkuk
Kirkuk
Kirkuk is a city in Iraq and the capital of Kirkuk Governorate.
It is located in the Iraqi governorate of Kirkuk, 236 kilometres (147 mi) north of the capital,
Baghdad. Kirkuk city lies 83 km south of Arbil, 149 km southeast of Mosul, 97 km west of
Sulaymaniyah, and 116 km northeast Tikrit
City: Kirkuk
Kirkuk
Kirkuk is a city in Iraq and the capital of Kirkuk Governorate.
It is located in the Iraqi governorate of Kirkuk, 236 kilometres (147 mi) north of the capital,
Baghdad. Kirkuk city lies 83 km south of Arbil, 149 km southeast of Mosul, 97 km west of
Sulaymaniyah, and 116 km northeast Tikrit
55
It stands on the site of the ancient Assyrian capital of Arrapha, which sits near
the Khasa River on the ruins of a 5,000-year-old settlement (Kirkuk Citadel). Arrapha reached
great importance under the Assyrians in the 10th and 11th centuries BC. Because of the
strategic geographical location of the city, Kirkuk was the battle ground for three empires—
the Neo-Assyrian Empire, Babylonia, and Media—which controlled the city at various times.
Kirkuk lies in a wide zone with an ethnically mixed population, which has moreover
experienced dramatic demographic changes in the course of the twentieth century. Kurds,
Turkmen and Arabs lay conflicting claims to this zone, and all have their historical accounts
and memories to buttress their claims.
Historically, the city has always been considered by Kurds and Turkmens as a cultural capital.
It was named the "capital of Iraqi culture" by the ministry of culture in 2010.
The city currently consists of Arabs, Assyrians, Iraqi Turkmens and Kurds.
Demographics
The most reliable census concerning the ethnic composition of Kirkuk dates back to 1957.
Kirkuk province borders were later altered, the province was renamed al-Ta'mim and Kurdish
dominated districts were added to Erbil and Sulamaniya provinces.
1957 Census results for Kirkuk Province
Mother
tongue
Kirkuk
City
Rest of Kirkuk
Province
Total Percentage of total
population
Kurdish 40,047 147,546 187,593 48.2
Arabic 27,127 82,493 109,620 28.2
Turkish 45,306 38,065 83,371 21.4
Syriac 1,509 96 1,605 0.4
Hebrew 101 22 123 0.03
Other 6,330 215 6,545 1.77
Total 120,420 268,437 388,857 100%
Language
Arabic is the lingua franca of communication, education, business, and official work to the
majority of the city's residents. Upper class and university-educated residents usually have
varying degrees of proficiency in English as well.
It stands on the site of the ancient Assyrian capital of Arrapha, which sits near
the Khasa River on the ruins of a 5,000-year-old settlement (Kirkuk Citadel). Arrapha reached
great importance under the Assyrians in the 10th and 11th centuries BC. Because of the
strategic geographical location of the city, Kirkuk was the battle ground for three empires—
the Neo-Assyrian Empire, Babylonia, and Media—which controlled the city at various times.
Kirkuk lies in a wide zone with an ethnically mixed population, which has moreover
experienced dramatic demographic changes in the course of the twentieth century. Kurds,
Turkmen and Arabs lay conflicting claims to this zone, and all have their historical accounts
and memories to buttress their claims.
Historically, the city has always been considered by Kurds and Turkmens as a cultural capital.
It was named the "capital of Iraqi culture" by the ministry of culture in 2010.
The city currently consists of Arabs, Assyrians, Iraqi Turkmens and Kurds.
Demographics
The most reliable census concerning the ethnic composition of Kirkuk dates back to 1957.
Kirkuk province borders were later altered, the province was renamed al-Ta'mim and Kurdish
dominated districts were added to Erbil and Sulamaniya provinces.
1957 Census results for Kirkuk Province
Mother
tongue
Kirkuk
City
Rest of Kirkuk
Province
Total Percentage of total
population
Kurdish 40,047 147,546 187,593 48.2
Arabic 27,127 82,493 109,620 28.2
Turkish 45,306 38,065 83,371 21.4
Syriac 1,509 96 1,605 0.4
Hebrew 101 22 123 0.03
Other 6,330 215 6,545 1.77
Total 120,420 268,437 388,857 100%
Language
Arabic is the lingua franca of communication, education, business, and official work to the
majority of the city's residents. Upper class and university-educated residents usually have
varying degrees of proficiency in English as well.
56
Climate
Kirkuk experiences a hot semi-arid climate with extremely hot and dry summers
and cool, rainy winters. Snow is rare but it has fallen on 1990,22 February 2004, and from 10
to 11 January 2008.
Hospitals and Medical Facilities
Kirkuk General Hospital
Azadi General Hospital
General Hospitals Huzairan/for Ministry of Oil
General Hospitals Al Hawija
General Hospitals Al Taamem General
General Hospitals Al-Daqoq
Private Hospital Dar Al Hekmah Private
Private Hospital Dar Al Salam Private
Specialized Hospital Pediatric Hospital
Kirkuk Military Hospital
Climate
Kirkuk experiences a hot semi-arid climate with extremely hot and dry summers
and cool, rainy winters. Snow is rare but it has fallen on 1990,22 February 2004, and from 10
to 11 January 2008.
Hospitals and Medical Facilities
Kirkuk General Hospital
Azadi General Hospital
General Hospitals Huzairan/for Ministry of Oil
General Hospitals Al Hawija
General Hospitals Al Taamem General
General Hospitals Al-Daqoq
Private Hospital Dar Al Hekmah Private
Private Hospital Dar Al Salam Private
Specialized Hospital Pediatric Hospital
Kirkuk Military Hospital
57
City:
Sulaymaniyah
Sulaymaniyah
Sulaymaniyah or Slemani, is a city in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and also known as the
cultural capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. It is the capital of Sulaymaniyah Governorate.
Sulaymaniyah is surrounded by the Azmer Range, Goyija Range and the Qaiwan Range in the
north east, Baranan Mountain in the south and the Tasluja Hills in the west. The city has a
semi-arid climate with very hot and dry summers and very cold winters. Sulaymaniyah served
as the historic capital of the Kurdish principality of Baban from 1784 to 1850.
City:
Sulaymaniyah
Sulaymaniyah
Sulaymaniyah or Slemani, is a city in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and also known as the
cultural capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. It is the capital of Sulaymaniyah Governorate.
Sulaymaniyah is surrounded by the Azmer Range, Goyija Range and the Qaiwan Range in the
north east, Baranan Mountain in the south and the Tasluja Hills in the west. The city has a
semi-arid climate with very hot and dry summers and very cold winters. Sulaymaniyah served
as the historic capital of the Kurdish principality of Baban from 1784 to 1850.
58
The modern city of Sulaymaniyah was founded on 14 November 1784 by the
Kurdish prince Ibrahim Pasha Baban who named it after his father Sulaiman
Pasha. Because it was founded as the capital of a powerful Kurdish principality, Sulaymaniyah
has developed into a large city with a population of about 1.500.000 people. It is an important
economic center for Iraqi Kurdistan and the cultural center for the Sorani-speaking Kurds. It
has been named cultural capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq continuously since 1992.
Demographics
In 1820 and after only 26 years of the creation of the city, a British man named Rech had
visited the city and estimated that the number of its residents is more than ten thousand,
containing 2,144 families of which 2,000 were Muslim, 130 Jewish, and 14 Christian families.
Ottoman documents dating back to 1907 suggest that there were 8,702 Muslim and 360 non-
Muslim residents living in the city. According to "Peshkawtin" newspaper which was
distributed in Slemani in 1920 estimated its population to be around ten thousand. According
to Iraqi government documents, by 1947 the number of residents had increased to 23,475; by
1998 to 548,747, and in 2009 to 1,000,000.
Geography and climate
The city is located in the northern part of the Iraq and although the weather in the summer is
rather warm, with temperatures ranging from 15 C (60 F) to 40 C (104 F) and some times up
until 45 C (113 F).[6] In the winters, there are a significant amount of snow and the Sulaymania
temperatures are both dense in the summer and dry and windy in the winter. The city is
actually known as the "windy-city" in the region among Kurds. One of the reasons for that is
the mountains that surround the city. From north, there are mountain Goizha and to the south
Chwarta, forcing the air in the city to be condensed and compacted and often quite rainy.
Snow is not frequent in winter, but it has fallen in January 2008, January 2010, February 2010,
February 2011, March 2012, and January 2013.
Education
Students outside the main administrative building of The American University of Iraq –
Sulaimani.
Education is free from primary school until graduation from university. The University of
Sulaymaniyah was opened in 1968 with instruction in Kurdish, Arabic, and English. It has
faculties in engineering, agriculture, the arts, science, and medicine.It is the largest university
in Iraqi Kurdistan. The University was moved during the 1980s to Erbil which is now known as
the Salahaddin University.
A new University of Sulaymaniyah was established in 1991, teaching in Kurdish, English and
Arabic.
The modern city of Sulaymaniyah was founded on 14 November 1784 by the
Kurdish prince Ibrahim Pasha Baban who named it after his father Sulaiman
Pasha. Because it was founded as the capital of a powerful Kurdish principality, Sulaymaniyah
has developed into a large city with a population of about 1.500.000 people. It is an important
economic center for Iraqi Kurdistan and the cultural center for the Sorani-speaking Kurds. It
has been named cultural capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq continuously since 1992.
Demographics
In 1820 and after only 26 years of the creation of the city, a British man named Rech had
visited the city and estimated that the number of its residents is more than ten thousand,
containing 2,144 families of which 2,000 were Muslim, 130 Jewish, and 14 Christian families.
Ottoman documents dating back to 1907 suggest that there were 8,702 Muslim and 360 non-
Muslim residents living in the city. According to "Peshkawtin" newspaper which was
distributed in Slemani in 1920 estimated its population to be around ten thousand. According
to Iraqi government documents, by 1947 the number of residents had increased to 23,475; by
1998 to 548,747, and in 2009 to 1,000,000.
Geography and climate
The city is located in the northern part of the Iraq and although the weather in the summer is
rather warm, with temperatures ranging from 15 C (60 F) to 40 C (104 F) and some times up
until 45 C (113 F).[6] In the winters, there are a significant amount of snow and the Sulaymania
temperatures are both dense in the summer and dry and windy in the winter. The city is
actually known as the "windy-city" in the region among Kurds. One of the reasons for that is
the mountains that surround the city. From north, there are mountain Goizha and to the south
Chwarta, forcing the air in the city to be condensed and compacted and often quite rainy.
Snow is not frequent in winter, but it has fallen in January 2008, January 2010, February 2010,
February 2011, March 2012, and January 2013.
Education
Students outside the main administrative building of The American University of Iraq –
Sulaimani.
Education is free from primary school until graduation from university. The University of
Sulaymaniyah was opened in 1968 with instruction in Kurdish, Arabic, and English. It has
faculties in engineering, agriculture, the arts, science, and medicine.It is the largest university
in Iraqi Kurdistan. The University was moved during the 1980s to Erbil which is now known as
the Salahaddin University.
A new University of Sulaymaniyah was established in 1991, teaching in Kurdish, English and
Arabic.
59
In 2007 The American University of Iraq – Sulaimani, The American University
of Iraq – Sulaimani (AUI-S) was a new addition to the American universities in
the Middle East, holding its first classes in October 2007. Instruction is in English
only.
In 2008 the University of Human Development was opened in Qaradax with three colleges
and four departments. Its first year courses include law, politics, computer engineering and
English language.
Kurdistan University of Science and Technology (KUST) - Sulaymani was established and
licensed by the Ministry of High Education and Scientific Research in Kurdistan Region
Government, by the official letter no. 17867/7 on October 18, 2009. KUST is a private
university governed by a Board of Trustees and run by an Administration Council. Its main
campus is located in the city of Sulaymani, in Kurdistan- Iraq.
KUST offered its first teaching classes in 2010 with an English language summer course (levels
1 and 3).
Culture
Adnan Karim in a joint concert with the Iraqi National Symphony Orchestra conducted by the
renowned Kurdish composer A.J.Sagerma performing classical Kurdish music
Sulaymaniyah is considered the center of the Sorani Kurdish culture in Kurdistan. It is
recognized officially as the cultural capital of Iraqi Kurdistan. Development of Sorani as a
modern literary language started in this city in the early 19th century, when many Kurdish
poets such as Nalî, Piramerd, Muhamed Amin Zaki, Abdulla Goran, Muhamad Salih Dilan,
Ahmad Hardi, Ibrahim Ahmad, Sherko Bekas, and Bachtyar Ali published their works.
The city is known for its open, relatively liberal and tolerant society when compared to other
cities of Kurdistan and Iraq.. In 2006 the Movement for Change started in Sulaymaniyah and
challenged what it called the "corrupt" and "nepotistic" Kurdish Government. The movement
gained massive support from the city.
The two independent newspapers Hawlati and Awena and the two independent political
magazines Lvin and Shock, are published and distributed in Slemani city.
Sulaymaniyah assumes its own style of music which have borrowed from traditions of the city,
Muhamad Salih Dilan is widely considered to be the greatest singer from the city and had the
greatest role in developing Kurdish maqam.The city is also considered to be the birthplace of
modern Kurdish music, the key figures in this field are Karwan Osman (born in 1968) who was
executed by the Ba'ath regime in 1991 after in his imprisonment for one year in the Abu
Ghraib prison and more academically Xalîd Reşîd.
It is the only city in Iraq that regularly celebrates world music day or Fête de la Musique. In
one trip to the city a journalist working for BBC writes about Sulaymaniyah's distinct culture:
"Culture is hugely important to Kurdish people, especially in Sulaymaniyah, but there is a
strong pull to the west – the modernisation and consumerism – driven perhaps by the satellite
televisions they have had access to since they started running their own affairs."
In 2007 The American University of Iraq – Sulaimani, The American University
of Iraq – Sulaimani (AUI-S) was a new addition to the American universities in
the Middle East, holding its first classes in October 2007. Instruction is in English
only.
In 2008 the University of Human Development was opened in Qaradax with three colleges
and four departments. Its first year courses include law, politics, computer engineering and
English language.
Kurdistan University of Science and Technology (KUST) - Sulaymani was established and
licensed by the Ministry of High Education and Scientific Research in Kurdistan Region
Government, by the official letter no. 17867/7 on October 18, 2009. KUST is a private
university governed by a Board of Trustees and run by an Administration Council. Its main
campus is located in the city of Sulaymani, in Kurdistan- Iraq.
KUST offered its first teaching classes in 2010 with an English language summer course (levels
1 and 3).
Culture
Adnan Karim in a joint concert with the Iraqi National Symphony Orchestra conducted by the
renowned Kurdish composer A.J.Sagerma performing classical Kurdish music
Sulaymaniyah is considered the center of the Sorani Kurdish culture in Kurdistan. It is
recognized officially as the cultural capital of Iraqi Kurdistan. Development of Sorani as a
modern literary language started in this city in the early 19th century, when many Kurdish
poets such as Nalî, Piramerd, Muhamed Amin Zaki, Abdulla Goran, Muhamad Salih Dilan,
Ahmad Hardi, Ibrahim Ahmad, Sherko Bekas, and Bachtyar Ali published their works.
The city is known for its open, relatively liberal and tolerant society when compared to other
cities of Kurdistan and Iraq.. In 2006 the Movement for Change started in Sulaymaniyah and
challenged what it called the "corrupt" and "nepotistic" Kurdish Government. The movement
gained massive support from the city.
The two independent newspapers Hawlati and Awena and the two independent political
magazines Lvin and Shock, are published and distributed in Slemani city.
Sulaymaniyah assumes its own style of music which have borrowed from traditions of the city,
Muhamad Salih Dilan is widely considered to be the greatest singer from the city and had the
greatest role in developing Kurdish maqam.The city is also considered to be the birthplace of
modern Kurdish music, the key figures in this field are Karwan Osman (born in 1968) who was
executed by the Ba'ath regime in 1991 after in his imprisonment for one year in the Abu
Ghraib prison and more academically Xalîd Reşîd.
It is the only city in Iraq that regularly celebrates world music day or Fête de la Musique. In
one trip to the city a journalist working for BBC writes about Sulaymaniyah's distinct culture:
"Culture is hugely important to Kurdish people, especially in Sulaymaniyah, but there is a
strong pull to the west – the modernisation and consumerism – driven perhaps by the satellite
televisions they have had access to since they started running their own affairs."
60
"And at the university, students mill around the campus, chattering with each
other and doing some last-minute cramming for their exams. Remarkably in this
part of Iraq, the war only stopped lectures for a few weeks. "There are probably
more women than men and they are happy to air their views to anyone who asks."
Transportation
The city is dependent on road transport. 0n 20 July 2005 Sulaimaniyah International Airport
opened, with regular flights to various eastern and European destinations such as Ankara,
Frankfurt, Stockholm, Malmö, Munich, Eindhoven and Düsseldorf as well as Middle Eastern
cities like Dubai, Amman, Doha, Beirut, Damascus and Istanbul.
Airport
In the absence of railway link for Sulaymaniyah with any of the other Iraqi cities, the province
relies on road and air transportation.
The Sulaimaniyah International Airport is situated at the western part of the city. The airport
was opened on July 21, 2006.
Hospitals and Medical facilities
Sulaimanyah Teaching Hospital
Sulaimanyah General Hospital
Sulaimanyah Pediatric Hospital
Sulaimanyah Gynecological and obstetric Hospital
Shaheed Aso Eye Hospital
Emergency Hospital
Shorsh Military Hospital
Sulaimanyah Maternity Hospital
Hewa Oncological Hospital
Kurdistan Gastrointestinal and hepatology center
Sulaimanyah Cardiac catheterization center
Sulaimanyah Cardiac surgery center
Breast care center
"And at the university, students mill around the campus, chattering with each
other and doing some last-minute cramming for their exams. Remarkably in this
part of Iraq, the war only stopped lectures for a few weeks. "There are probably
more women than men and they are happy to air their views to anyone who asks."
Transportation
The city is dependent on road transport. 0n 20 July 2005 Sulaimaniyah International Airport
opened, with regular flights to various eastern and European destinations such as Ankara,
Frankfurt, Stockholm, Malmö, Munich, Eindhoven and Düsseldorf as well as Middle Eastern
cities like Dubai, Amman, Doha, Beirut, Damascus and Istanbul.
Airport
In the absence of railway link for Sulaymaniyah with any of the other Iraqi cities, the province
relies on road and air transportation.
The Sulaimaniyah International Airport is situated at the western part of the city. The airport
was opened on July 21, 2006.
Hospitals and Medical facilities
Sulaimanyah Teaching Hospital
Sulaimanyah General Hospital
Sulaimanyah Pediatric Hospital
Sulaimanyah Gynecological and obstetric Hospital
Shaheed Aso Eye Hospital
Emergency Hospital
Shorsh Military Hospital
Sulaimanyah Maternity Hospital
Hewa Oncological Hospital
Kurdistan Gastrointestinal and hepatology center
Sulaimanyah Cardiac catheterization center
Sulaimanyah Cardiac surgery center
Breast care center
61
City:
Al Basrah
Basra - Basrah
Basra also written Basrah is the capital of Basra Governorate, in southern Iraq near Kuwait
and Iran. It had an estimated population of 952,441 as of 2007, and 2,009,767 as of 2012.
Basra is also Iraq's main port, although it does not have deep water access, which is handled
at the port of Umm Qasr.
The city is part of the historic location of Sumer, the home of Sinbad the Sailor, and a proposed
location of the Garden of Eden. It played an important role in early Islamic history and was
built in 636 CE or 14 AH. It is Iraq's second largest and most populous city after
City:
Al Basrah
Basra - Basrah
Basra also written Basrah is the capital of Basra Governorate, in southern Iraq near Kuwait
and Iran. It had an estimated population of 952,441 as of 2007, and 2,009,767 as of 2012.
Basra is also Iraq's main port, although it does not have deep water access, which is handled
at the port of Umm Qasr.
The city is part of the historic location of Sumer, the home of Sinbad the Sailor, and a proposed
location of the Garden of Eden. It played an important role in early Islamic history and was
built in 636 CE or 14 AH. It is Iraq's second largest and most populous city after
62
Baghdad. Basra is consistently one of the hottest cities on the planet, with
summer temperatures regularly at least 45 degrees celsius.
The city was called by many names throughout its history, Basrah being the most common.
Although some Chaldean Christians argue that the name has Akkadian roots, other sources
claim that the name is derived from the Persian word Bas-rah, which means "where many
paths meet". During the pre-Islamic era, the area was known to the Arabs as al-Khariba due
to the existence of an ancient city called al-Kharba. After the present city was built, it was
called by many names, including "the mother of Iraq", "the reservoir of Arabs", "the
prosperous city", and "al-Faiha".
Geography and climate
Basra is located on the Shatt-Al-Arab waterway, downstream of which is the Persian Gulf. The
Shatt-Al-Arab and Basra waterways define the eastern and western borders of Basra,
respectively. The city is penetrated by a complex network of canals and streams; vital for
irrigation and other agricultural use. These canals were once used to transport goods and
people throughout the city, but during the last 2 decades, pollution and a continuous drop in
water levels have made river navigation impossible in the canals. Basra is 110 km away from
the Persian Gulf.
Basra has a hot desert climate (Köppen climate classification BWh), like the rest of the
surrounding region, though it receives slightly more precipitation than inland locations due to
its location near the coast. During the summer months, from June to August, Basra is
consistently one of the hottest cities on the planet, regularly exceeding 45 °C (113 °F) and may
approach 50 °C (122 °F) during July. During the winter, Basra experiences mild weather with
average high temperatures around 20 °C (68 °F). In few winter nights, minimum temperature
lows below 0 °C (32 °F). High humidity is common due to the proximity to the marshy Persian
Gulf (may exceed 90%).
Economy
The city is located along the Shatt al-Arab waterway, 55 kilometers (34 mi) from the Persian
Gulf and 545 kilometers (339 mi) from Baghdad, Iraq's capital and largest city.
The area surrounding Basra has substantial large petroleum resources and many oil wells. The
city also has an international airport, with service into Baghdad with Iraqi Airways—the
national airline. Basra is in a fertile agricultural region, with major products including rice,
maize corn, barley, pearl millet, wheat, dates, and livestock. Iraq has the world's 4th largest
oil reserves estimated to be more 115 billion barrels (18.3×109 m3), most of it from Basra.
80% of Basra's oil potential is unexplored. A network of canals flowed through the city, giving
it the nickname "The Venice of the Middle East." The tides at Basra fall by about 2.7 meters
(8.9 ft).[citation needed] For a long time, Basra was known for the superior quality of its dates.
Baghdad. Basra is consistently one of the hottest cities on the planet, with
summer temperatures regularly at least 45 degrees celsius.
The city was called by many names throughout its history, Basrah being the most common.
Although some Chaldean Christians argue that the name has Akkadian roots, other sources
claim that the name is derived from the Persian word Bas-rah, which means "where many
paths meet". During the pre-Islamic era, the area was known to the Arabs as al-Khariba due
to the existence of an ancient city called al-Kharba. After the present city was built, it was
called by many names, including "the mother of Iraq", "the reservoir of Arabs", "the
prosperous city", and "al-Faiha".
Geography and climate
Basra is located on the Shatt-Al-Arab waterway, downstream of which is the Persian Gulf. The
Shatt-Al-Arab and Basra waterways define the eastern and western borders of Basra,
respectively. The city is penetrated by a complex network of canals and streams; vital for
irrigation and other agricultural use. These canals were once used to transport goods and
people throughout the city, but during the last 2 decades, pollution and a continuous drop in
water levels have made river navigation impossible in the canals. Basra is 110 km away from
the Persian Gulf.
Basra has a hot desert climate (Köppen climate classification BWh), like the rest of the
surrounding region, though it receives slightly more precipitation than inland locations due to
its location near the coast. During the summer months, from June to August, Basra is
consistently one of the hottest cities on the planet, regularly exceeding 45 °C (113 °F) and may
approach 50 °C (122 °F) during July. During the winter, Basra experiences mild weather with
average high temperatures around 20 °C (68 °F). In few winter nights, minimum temperature
lows below 0 °C (32 °F). High humidity is common due to the proximity to the marshy Persian
Gulf (may exceed 90%).
Economy
The city is located along the Shatt al-Arab waterway, 55 kilometers (34 mi) from the Persian
Gulf and 545 kilometers (339 mi) from Baghdad, Iraq's capital and largest city.
The area surrounding Basra has substantial large petroleum resources and many oil wells. The
city also has an international airport, with service into Baghdad with Iraqi Airways—the
national airline. Basra is in a fertile agricultural region, with major products including rice,
maize corn, barley, pearl millet, wheat, dates, and livestock. Iraq has the world's 4th largest
oil reserves estimated to be more 115 billion barrels (18.3×109 m3), most of it from Basra.
80% of Basra's oil potential is unexplored. A network of canals flowed through the city, giving
it the nickname "The Venice of the Middle East." The tides at Basra fall by about 2.7 meters
(8.9 ft).[citation needed] For a long time, Basra was known for the superior quality of its dates.
63
The city's economy is largely dependent on the oil industry. Some of Iraq's
largest oil fields are located in the province, and most of Iraq's oil exports leave
from Al Basrah Oil Terminal. The South Oil Company has its headquarters in the
city.
Substantial economic activity in Basrah is centered around the petrochemical industry, which
includes the Southern Fertilizer Company and The State Company for Petrochemical
Industries. The Southern Fertilizer Company produces ammonia solution, urea and nitrogen
gas, while the SCPI focus on such products as ethylene, caustic/chlorine, vinyl chlorine
monomer (VCM), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene, and high-density
polyethylene
Basra was known in the 1960s for its sugar market, a fact that figured heavily in the English
contract law remoteness of damages case The Heron II [1969] 1 AC 350.
Shipping, logistics and transport are also major industries in Basra. Basra is home to all of
Iraq’s six ports; Umm Qasr is the main deep-water port with 22 platforms, some of which are
dedicated to specific goods (such as sulfur, seeds, lubricant oil, etc.) The other five ports are
smaller in scale and more narrowly specialized. Fishing was an important business before the
oil boom.
Demographics
In Basra the vast majority of the population are ethnic Arabs of the Adnanite or the Qahtanite
tribes. The main tribes located in Basra are Al-Emarah, Bani Tamim, Bani Assad, Bani Ka'ab,
Bani Malik, Shammar, Bani Khalid, Bani Sa'ad, Al-shwelat `Anizzah, Suwa'id, Al-bo
Mohammed, Al-Jboor, Duwasir, Dhufair, Shreefat, Al-Badr[disambiguation needed], Al-Ubadi,
Ruba'ah Sayyid tribes (descendants of the Islamic prophet Muhammed) and hundreds of other
Arab tribes.
In 2006, Muslim adherents were about 85% Shiite and 15% Sunni,. A small number of
Assyrian/Chaldean/Syriac Christians also live there. There are remnants of the pre-Islamic
gnostic sect of Mandaeans, whose headquarters were in the area formerly called Suk esh-
Sheikh, with a small community of 3000 people or less. Basra is also home to a minority of
Afro-Iraqi peoples.
The city's economy is largely dependent on the oil industry. Some of Iraq's
largest oil fields are located in the province, and most of Iraq's oil exports leave
from Al Basrah Oil Terminal. The South Oil Company has its headquarters in the
city.
Substantial economic activity in Basrah is centered around the petrochemical industry, which
includes the Southern Fertilizer Company and The State Company for Petrochemical
Industries. The Southern Fertilizer Company produces ammonia solution, urea and nitrogen
gas, while the SCPI focus on such products as ethylene, caustic/chlorine, vinyl chlorine
monomer (VCM), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene, and high-density
polyethylene
Basra was known in the 1960s for its sugar market, a fact that figured heavily in the English
contract law remoteness of damages case The Heron II [1969] 1 AC 350.
Shipping, logistics and transport are also major industries in Basra. Basra is home to all of
Iraq’s six ports; Umm Qasr is the main deep-water port with 22 platforms, some of which are
dedicated to specific goods (such as sulfur, seeds, lubricant oil, etc.) The other five ports are
smaller in scale and more narrowly specialized. Fishing was an important business before the
oil boom.
Demographics
In Basra the vast majority of the population are ethnic Arabs of the Adnanite or the Qahtanite
tribes. The main tribes located in Basra are Al-Emarah, Bani Tamim, Bani Assad, Bani Ka'ab,
Bani Malik, Shammar, Bani Khalid, Bani Sa'ad, Al-shwelat `Anizzah, Suwa'id, Al-bo
Mohammed, Al-Jboor, Duwasir, Dhufair, Shreefat, Al-Badr[disambiguation needed], Al-Ubadi,
Ruba'ah Sayyid tribes (descendants of the Islamic prophet Muhammed) and hundreds of other
Arab tribes.
In 2006, Muslim adherents were about 85% Shiite and 15% Sunni,. A small number of
Assyrian/Chaldean/Syriac Christians also live there. There are remnants of the pre-Islamic
gnostic sect of Mandaeans, whose headquarters were in the area formerly called Suk esh-
Sheikh, with a small community of 3000 people or less. Basra is also home to a minority of
Afro-Iraqi peoples.
64
List of Hospitals in Basra:
• Basrah Paediatric Hospital
• Al - Jamhouria Hospital
• General Hospitals Om Al Maarik in Om Qaser
• General Hospitals Al Zubir
• General Hospitals Al Madina
• General Hospitals Saddamiya Al Qurna
• General Hospitals Al Fao
• General Hospitals Abi Al Khasib
• Private Hospital Al Saadi Private
• Private Hospital Al Saadoon Private
• Private Hospital Al Noor Private
• Private Hospital Eben Al Baitar Private
• Teaching Hospital Al Barah General Teaching
• Teaching Hospital Sader Teaching
• Teaching Hospital Al Tahir General Teaching
• Teaching Hospital Al Basrah Maternity & Children
• Al-Basrah Military Hospital
Basra Airports:
Basrah International Airport (IATA: BSR, ICAO: ORMM) is the second largest international
airport in Iraq, and is located in the southern city of Basra.
List of Hospitals in Basra:
• Basrah Paediatric Hospital
• Al - Jamhouria Hospital
• General Hospitals Om Al Maarik in Om Qaser
• General Hospitals Al Zubir
• General Hospitals Al Madina
• General Hospitals Saddamiya Al Qurna
• General Hospitals Al Fao
• General Hospitals Abi Al Khasib
• Private Hospital Al Saadi Private
• Private Hospital Al Saadoon Private
• Private Hospital Al Noor Private
• Private Hospital Eben Al Baitar Private
• Teaching Hospital Al Barah General Teaching
• Teaching Hospital Sader Teaching
• Teaching Hospital Al Tahir General Teaching
• Teaching Hospital Al Basrah Maternity & Children
• Al-Basrah Military Hospital
Basra Airports:
Basrah International Airport (IATA: BSR, ICAO: ORMM) is the second largest international
airport in Iraq, and is located in the southern city of Basra.
65
Airlines and destinations
Airlines Destinations
Air Arabia Sharjah
Emirates Dubai
Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi
flydubai Dubai
Iraqi Airways Amman-Queen Alia, Baghdad, Beirut, Damascus, Dubai, Erbil,
Istanbul-Atatürk, Sulaymaniyah, Delhi
Med Airways Beirut
Royal Jordanian
Airlines
Amman-Queen Alia
Qatar Airways Doha (begins June 3, 2013)
Turkish Airlines Istanbul-Atatürk
Airlines and destinations
Airlines Destinations
Air Arabia Sharjah
Emirates Dubai
Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi
flydubai Dubai
Iraqi Airways Amman-Queen Alia, Baghdad, Beirut, Damascus, Dubai, Erbil,
Istanbul-Atatürk, Sulaymaniyah, Delhi
Med Airways Beirut
Royal Jordanian
Airlines
Amman-Queen Alia
Qatar Airways Doha (begins June 3, 2013)
Turkish Airlines Istanbul-Atatürk
66
City:
Erbil - Arbil
Erbil also written Arbil, or Irbil, with a population of approximately 1.3 million (2009), the
fourth largest city in Iraq after Baghdad, Basra and Mosul.[2] It is located 80 kilometres (50
miles) east of Mosul, and is the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
Urban life at Erbil (Hewlêr) can be dated back to at least 6000 BC, and it is one of the oldest
continuously inhabited cities in the world. At the heart of the city is the ancient Citadel of
Arbil. The Hurrians were the first to establish Urbilum and expand their rule to the rest of
northern Mesopotamia. The city has since been under the rule of many regional powers,
including the Assyrians, the Babylonians, the Medes, the Persians, the Greeks, the Arabs, and
the Seljuk and Ottoman Turks. Erbil's archaeological museum houses a large collection of pre-
Islamic artifacts, and is a center for archaeological projects in the area.
City:
Erbil - Arbil
Erbil also written Arbil, or Irbil, with a population of approximately 1.3 million (2009), the
fourth largest city in Iraq after Baghdad, Basra and Mosul.[2] It is located 80 kilometres (50
miles) east of Mosul, and is the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
Urban life at Erbil (Hewlêr) can be dated back to at least 6000 BC, and it is one of the oldest
continuously inhabited cities in the world. At the heart of the city is the ancient Citadel of
Arbil. The Hurrians were the first to establish Urbilum and expand their rule to the rest of
northern Mesopotamia. The city has since been under the rule of many regional powers,
including the Assyrians, the Babylonians, the Medes, the Persians, the Greeks, the Arabs, and
the Seljuk and Ottoman Turks. Erbil's archaeological museum houses a large collection of pre-
Islamic artifacts, and is a center for archaeological projects in the area.
67
Etymology
The name Erbil was mentioned in Sumerian holy writings of third millennium BC as Urbilum,
Urbelum or Urbillum, which appears to originate from Hurrian Arbilum, who inhbited the area.
Later, the Akkadians by a folk etymology rendered the name as arba'ū ilū to mean four gods.
The city became a centre for the worship of the goddess Ishtar. In classical times the city
became known by its Aramaic name, Arbela. In Old Persian the city was called Arbairā.
Today, the modern Kurdish name of the city, Hewlêr, appears to be a corruption of the name
Arbel by a series of metatheses of consonants.
Climate
Erbil's climate is borderline between hot semi-arid (BSh ) and hot-summer Mediterranean
(Csa ), according to Köppen climate classification. Most of its precipitation lies in the colder
months.
Culture & Entertainment
If you were to follow the neighborhoods towards the airport, you will have reached the Sami
Abdurrahman Park. This area built around a lake is a meeting point where the people of Erbil
can spend a pleasant time with their families. There are playgrounds for kids and green areas
suitable for strolls. The park is so large that no matter how crowded it is, it appears calm and
quiet upon entrance. Guests can also take advantage of restaurants, cafes, and shopping areas
here.
Museum of Civilization, located on the Mound of Qalich Agha, must be included in the list of
places to see. In this museum, on Sharawany Street 1 km from the historical city walls, you
can see the artifacts and tools used by people who lived in 5 thousand BC. Also, Ary Kon –a
small archeological site to the west of the citadel- can be seen.
Etymology
The name Erbil was mentioned in Sumerian holy writings of third millennium BC as Urbilum,
Urbelum or Urbillum, which appears to originate from Hurrian Arbilum, who inhbited the area.
Later, the Akkadians by a folk etymology rendered the name as arba'ū ilū to mean four gods.
The city became a centre for the worship of the goddess Ishtar. In classical times the city
became known by its Aramaic name, Arbela. In Old Persian the city was called Arbairā.
Today, the modern Kurdish name of the city, Hewlêr, appears to be a corruption of the name
Arbel by a series of metatheses of consonants.
Climate
Erbil's climate is borderline between hot semi-arid (BSh ) and hot-summer Mediterranean
(Csa ), according to Köppen climate classification. Most of its precipitation lies in the colder
months.
Culture & Entertainment
If you were to follow the neighborhoods towards the airport, you will have reached the Sami
Abdurrahman Park. This area built around a lake is a meeting point where the people of Erbil
can spend a pleasant time with their families. There are playgrounds for kids and green areas
suitable for strolls. The park is so large that no matter how crowded it is, it appears calm and
quiet upon entrance. Guests can also take advantage of restaurants, cafes, and shopping areas
here.
Museum of Civilization, located on the Mound of Qalich Agha, must be included in the list of
places to see. In this museum, on Sharawany Street 1 km from the historical city walls, you
can see the artifacts and tools used by people who lived in 5 thousand BC. Also, Ary Kon –a
small archeological site to the west of the citadel- can be seen.
68
Hospital lists in Erbil
• Hawler Private Hospital with (Cardiac Center
"Local and German Team", French orthopedic and spine Team)
• Istanbul ENT and Aesthetic Center
• Rizgary Hospital, center
• Arbil Hospital, center
• Emergency Hospital, center
• Raparin Hospital, center
• Paediatric Hospital, center
• Shaqlawa Hospital, Shaqlawa district
• Shaheed Mulazim Kareem Hospital, Shaqlawa district, Salahaddin
• Hareer Hospital, Shaqlawa district, Hareer
• Soran Hospital, Soran district, Diana
• Rawanduz Hospital, Soran district, Rawanduz
• Choman Hospital, Choman
• Mergasoor Hospital, Mergasoor
• Sardam Private Hospital with MEDIJIN IVF Center
• Poush Goro center in erbil
Airports in Erbil
Erbil International Airport (IATA: EBL, ICAO: ORER), is the main airport of Erbil city in the
Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
It is administered by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) under a committee consisting
of the Prime Minister, Barzani, and is one of two international airports in the Kurdistan region
of Iraq. The new modern airport opened its doors in 2010.
Erbil International Airport offers the least expensive aviation fuel in Iraq. As of 2010, the EIA
selling price is 83 US cents per liter.
Hospital lists in Erbil
• Hawler Private Hospital with (Cardiac Center
"Local and German Team", French orthopedic and spine Team)
• Istanbul ENT and Aesthetic Center
• Rizgary Hospital, center
• Arbil Hospital, center
• Emergency Hospital, center
• Raparin Hospital, center
• Paediatric Hospital, center
• Shaqlawa Hospital, Shaqlawa district
• Shaheed Mulazim Kareem Hospital, Shaqlawa district, Salahaddin
• Hareer Hospital, Shaqlawa district, Hareer
• Soran Hospital, Soran district, Diana
• Rawanduz Hospital, Soran district, Rawanduz
• Choman Hospital, Choman
• Mergasoor Hospital, Mergasoor
• Sardam Private Hospital with MEDIJIN IVF Center
• Poush Goro center in erbil
Airports in Erbil
Erbil International Airport (IATA: EBL, ICAO: ORER), is the main airport of Erbil city in the
Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
It is administered by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) under a committee consisting
of the Prime Minister, Barzani, and is one of two international airports in the Kurdistan region
of Iraq. The new modern airport opened its doors in 2010.
Erbil International Airport offers the least expensive aviation fuel in Iraq. As of 2010, the EIA
selling price is 83 US cents per liter.
69
Airlines and destinations
Airlines Destinations
Air Berlin Düsseldorf
Air Arabia Sharjah
Atlasjet Istanbul-Atatürk
Austrian Airlines
operated by Tyrolean
Airways
Vienna
EgyptAir Cairo
Emirates Dubai
Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi
flydubai Dubai
FlyGeorgia Tbilisi
Georgian Airways Tbilisi
Germania Düsseldorf, Munich, Stockholm-Arlanda
Hermes Airlines Gothenburg-Landvetter, Manchester
Iraqi Airways Al Najaf, Amman-Queen Alia, Baghdad, Basra, Beirut, Cairo,
Damascus, Dubai, Düsseldorf Istanbul-Atatürk, Sulaymaniyah
Lufthansa Frankfurt
Mahan Air Tehran-Imam Khomeini
Middle East Airlines Beirut
Pegasus Airlines Ankara
Qatar Airways Doha
Royal Jordanian Amman-Queen Alia
Transavia.com Amsterdam
Turkish Airlines Istanbul-Atatürk
Cargo
Airlines Destinations
Emirates SkyCargo Dubai
Etihad Crystal Cargo Abu Dhabi
Royal Jordanian Cargo Amman-Queen Alia
Turkish Airlines Cargo Istanbul-Atatürk
Airlines and destinations
Airlines Destinations
Air Berlin Düsseldorf
Air Arabia Sharjah
Atlasjet Istanbul-Atatürk
Austrian Airlines
operated by Tyrolean
Airways
Vienna
EgyptAir Cairo
Emirates Dubai
Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi
flydubai Dubai
FlyGeorgia Tbilisi
Georgian Airways Tbilisi
Germania Düsseldorf, Munich, Stockholm-Arlanda
Hermes Airlines Gothenburg-Landvetter, Manchester
Iraqi Airways Al Najaf, Amman-Queen Alia, Baghdad, Basra, Beirut, Cairo,
Damascus, Dubai, Düsseldorf Istanbul-Atatürk, Sulaymaniyah
Lufthansa Frankfurt
Mahan Air Tehran-Imam Khomeini
Middle East Airlines Beirut
Pegasus Airlines Ankara
Qatar Airways Doha
Royal Jordanian Amman-Queen Alia
Transavia.com Amsterdam
Turkish Airlines Istanbul-Atatürk
Cargo
Airlines Destinations
Emirates SkyCargo Dubai
Etihad Crystal Cargo Abu Dhabi
Royal Jordanian Cargo Amman-Queen Alia
Turkish Airlines Cargo Istanbul-Atatürk
70
For all the Northern region of Iraq (Kurdistan), Auxilium has a signed
agreement for their insured personnel, to get treatment on cashless
bases with Life Support Team (LST), they can be reached on:
LST is providing medical services in Erbil city and all over Kurdistan region of Iraq.
For all the Northern region of Iraq (Kurdistan), Auxilium has a signed
agreement for their insured personnel, to get treatment on cashless
bases with Life Support Team (LST), they can be reached on:
LST is providing medical services in Erbil city and all over Kurdistan region of Iraq.
71
Distances Between Cities & main Airports
Distance between cities and main airports / KM (Allow 10 – 20 KM correction)
Airport
City Distance from Baghdad
Baghdad International Airport Baghdad (SDA) 26km (17mi)
Al Najaf International Airport Najaf (NJF) 142km (89mi)
Erbil International Airport Erbil (EBL) 333km (207mi)
Mosul Airport Mosul (OSM) 354km (220mi)
Distances Between Cities & main Airports
Distance between cities and main airports / KM (Allow 10 – 20 KM correction)
Airport
City Distance from Baghdad
Baghdad International Airport Baghdad (SDA) 26km (17mi)
Al Najaf International Airport Najaf (NJF) 142km (89mi)
Erbil International Airport Erbil (EBL) 333km (207mi)
Mosul Airport Mosul (OSM) 354km (220mi)
72
Airports
Baghdad International Airport
Baghdad International Airport, and also Saddam International Airport originally, (IATA: BGW,
ICAO: ORBI), is Iraq's largest airport, located in a suburb about 16 km (9.9 mi) west of
downtown Baghdad in the Baghdad Governorate. It is the home base for Iraq's national airline,
Iraqi Airways. It is often abbreviated BIAP, although BIAP is not an official airport code.
Airports
Baghdad International Airport
Baghdad International Airport, and also Saddam International Airport originally, (IATA: BGW,
ICAO: ORBI), is Iraq's largest airport, located in a suburb about 16 km (9.9 mi) west of
downtown Baghdad in the Baghdad Governorate. It is the home base for Iraq's national airline,
Iraqi Airways. It is often abbreviated BIAP, although BIAP is not an official airport code.
73
Airlines and destinations
Passenger
Airlines Destinations
Austrian Airlines
operated by
Tyrolean Airway
Vienna
Air Arabia Sharjah
Cham Wings Airlines Damascus
EgyptAir Cairo
Emirates Dubai
Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi
flydubai Dubai
Gulf Air Bahrain
Iran Air
operated by Iran
Airtour
Isfahan, Mashhad, Birjand, Sari
Iraqi Airways Amman-Queen Alia, Basra, Beirut, Cairo, Damascus, Delhi, Dubai,
Erbil, Isfahan, Istanbul-Atatürk, Kuwait, London-Gatwick, Mumbai,
Najaf, Sulaymaniyah, Tehran-Imam Khomeini
Jupiter Airlines Dubai
Kish Air Isfahan
Med Airways Beirut
Middle East Airlines Beirut
Qatar Airways Doha
Royal Jordanian Amman-Queen Alia
Syrian Air Damascus
Turkish Airlines Ankara, Istanbul-Atatürk
UM Airlines Kiev-Boryspil
Cargo
Airlines Destinations
Click Airways Erbil,
Sharjah
Coyne Airways Dubai
SNAS/DHL Bahrain
Etihad Crystal Cargo Abu Dhabi
Airlines and destinations
Passenger
Airlines Destinations
Austrian Airlines
operated by
Tyrolean Airway
Vienna
Air Arabia Sharjah
Cham Wings Airlines Damascus
EgyptAir Cairo
Emirates Dubai
Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi
flydubai Dubai
Gulf Air Bahrain
Iran Air
operated by Iran
Airtour
Isfahan, Mashhad, Birjand, Sari
Iraqi Airways Amman-Queen Alia, Basra, Beirut, Cairo, Damascus, Delhi, Dubai,
Erbil, Isfahan, Istanbul-Atatürk, Kuwait, London-Gatwick, Mumbai,
Najaf, Sulaymaniyah, Tehran-Imam Khomeini
Jupiter Airlines Dubai
Kish Air Isfahan
Med Airways Beirut
Middle East Airlines Beirut
Qatar Airways Doha
Royal Jordanian Amman-Queen Alia
Syrian Air Damascus
Turkish Airlines Ankara, Istanbul-Atatürk
UM Airlines Kiev-Boryspil
Cargo
Airlines Destinations
Click Airways Erbil,
Sharjah
Coyne Airways Dubai
SNAS/DHL Bahrain
Etihad Crystal Cargo Abu Dhabi
74
Al Najaf International Airport
Al Najaf International Airport (IATA: NJF; ICAO: ORNI) is the airport serving Najaf, Iraq, and is
located on the eastern side of the city. Formerly a military airbase, the facility consists of one
asphalt runway 3,000 meters (9,800 ft) long and 70 meters (230 ft) wide. The airport is
expanding to provide four departure gates, two arrival gates, immigration and passenger
services.
On 20 July 2008 the Najaf Authorities hosted the ceremonial opening attended by the Iraqi
Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki who stepped out of the first official plane.
The Najaf Governorate represented by the Deputy Governor Abd al-Husayn Abtan and Najaf
Investment Commission signed a Memorandum of Agreement dated 24 June 2008 with Al-
Aqeelah Holding authorizing it for one year to finalize the construction of the airport and five
years subject to renewal to manage the airport. Currently Aqeeq Aviation Holding a subsidiary
of Al-Aqeelah Holding is overseeing this.
Al Najaf International Airport
Al Najaf International Airport (IATA: NJF; ICAO: ORNI) is the airport serving Najaf, Iraq, and is
located on the eastern side of the city. Formerly a military airbase, the facility consists of one
asphalt runway 3,000 meters (9,800 ft) long and 70 meters (230 ft) wide. The airport is
expanding to provide four departure gates, two arrival gates, immigration and passenger
services.
On 20 July 2008 the Najaf Authorities hosted the ceremonial opening attended by the Iraqi
Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki who stepped out of the first official plane.
The Najaf Governorate represented by the Deputy Governor Abd al-Husayn Abtan and Najaf
Investment Commission signed a Memorandum of Agreement dated 24 June 2008 with Al-
Aqeelah Holding authorizing it for one year to finalize the construction of the airport and five
years subject to renewal to manage the airport. Currently Aqeeq Aviation Holding a subsidiary
of Al-Aqeelah Holding is overseeing this.
75
Airlines and destinations
Airlines Destinations
Air Arabia Sharjah
Al-Naser Airlines Baghdad, Kuwait
Cham Wings
Airlines
Damascus
Flydubai Dubai
Gryphon Airlines Baghdad, Kuwait
Gulf Air Bahrain
Iran Air Isfahan, Tabriz, Sari, Yazd
Iran Aseman
Airlines
Kermanshah, Mashhad
Iraqi Airways Baghdad, Damascus, Delhi, Dubai, Erbil, Isfahan, Mashhad, Mumbai,
Tehran-Imam Khomeini
Jazeera Airways Kuwait
Jupiter Airlines Dubai
Mahan Air Mashhad, Tehran-Imam Khomeini
Qatar Airways Doha
Royal Falcon Amman-Civil
Syrian Air Damascus
Taban Air Isfahan, Tehran-Imam Khomeini
Turkish Airlines Istanbul-Ataturk
Wings of
Lebanon
Beirut
Airlines and destinations
Airlines Destinations
Air Arabia Sharjah
Al-Naser Airlines Baghdad, Kuwait
Cham Wings
Airlines
Damascus
Flydubai Dubai
Gryphon Airlines Baghdad, Kuwait
Gulf Air Bahrain
Iran Air Isfahan, Tabriz, Sari, Yazd
Iran Aseman
Airlines
Kermanshah, Mashhad
Iraqi Airways Baghdad, Damascus, Delhi, Dubai, Erbil, Isfahan, Mashhad, Mumbai,
Tehran-Imam Khomeini
Jazeera Airways Kuwait
Jupiter Airlines Dubai
Mahan Air Mashhad, Tehran-Imam Khomeini
Qatar Airways Doha
Royal Falcon Amman-Civil
Syrian Air Damascus
Taban Air Isfahan, Tehran-Imam Khomeini
Turkish Airlines Istanbul-Ataturk
Wings of
Lebanon
Beirut
76
Erbil International Airport
Erbil International Airport (IATA: EBL, ICAO: ORER), is the main airport of Erbil
city in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
It is administered by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) under a committee consisting
of the Prime Minister, Barzani, and is one of two international airports in the Kurdistan region
of Iraq. The new modern airport opened its doors in 2010.
Erbil International Airport offers the least expensive aviation fuel in Iraq. As of 2010, the EIA
selling price is 83 US cents per liter.
Erbil International Airport
Erbil International Airport (IATA: EBL, ICAO: ORER), is the main airport of Erbil
city in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
It is administered by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) under a committee consisting
of the Prime Minister, Barzani, and is one of two international airports in the Kurdistan region
of Iraq. The new modern airport opened its doors in 2010.
Erbil International Airport offers the least expensive aviation fuel in Iraq. As of 2010, the EIA
selling price is 83 US cents per liter.
77
Airlines and destinations (Note: All Flights suspended until further notice)
Passenger
Airlines Destinations
Air Berlin Düsseldorf
Air Arabia Sharjah
Atlasjet Istanbul-Atatürk
Austrian Airlines
operated by Tyrolean Airways
Vienna
EgyptAir Cairo
Emirates Dubai
Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi
flydubai Dubai
Georgian Airways Tbilisi
Germania Düsseldorf, Munich, Stockholm-Arlanda
Hermes Airlines Gothenburg-Landvetter, Manchester
Iraqi Airways Al Najaf, Amman-Queen Alia, Baghdad, Basra, Beirut, Cairo, Damascus,
Dubai, Istanbul-Atatürk, Sulaymaniyah
Lufthansa Frankfurt
Mahan Air Tehran-Imam Khomeini
Middle East Airlines Beirut
Pegasus Airlines Ankara
Qatar Airways Doha
Royal Jordanian Amman-Queen Alia
SunExpress
operated by SunExpress
Deutschland
Düsseldorf (begins 3 May 2013)
Transavia.com Amsterdam
Turkish Airlines Istanbul-Atatürk
Cargo
Airlines Destinations
Emirates SkyCargo Dubai
Etihad Crystal Cargo Abu Dhabi
Royal Jordanian Cargo Amman-Queen Alia
Turkish Airlines Cargo Istanbul-Atatürk
Airlines and destinations (Note: All Flights suspended until further notice)
Passenger
Airlines Destinations
Air Berlin Düsseldorf
Air Arabia Sharjah
Atlasjet Istanbul-Atatürk
Austrian Airlines
operated by Tyrolean Airways
Vienna
EgyptAir Cairo
Emirates Dubai
Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi
flydubai Dubai
Georgian Airways Tbilisi
Germania Düsseldorf, Munich, Stockholm-Arlanda
Hermes Airlines Gothenburg-Landvetter, Manchester
Iraqi Airways Al Najaf, Amman-Queen Alia, Baghdad, Basra, Beirut, Cairo, Damascus,
Dubai, Istanbul-Atatürk, Sulaymaniyah
Lufthansa Frankfurt
Mahan Air Tehran-Imam Khomeini
Middle East Airlines Beirut
Pegasus Airlines Ankara
Qatar Airways Doha
Royal Jordanian Amman-Queen Alia
SunExpress
operated by SunExpress
Deutschland
Düsseldorf (begins 3 May 2013)
Transavia.com Amsterdam
Turkish Airlines Istanbul-Atatürk
Cargo
Airlines Destinations
Emirates SkyCargo Dubai
Etihad Crystal Cargo Abu Dhabi
Royal Jordanian Cargo Amman-Queen Alia
Turkish Airlines Cargo Istanbul-Atatürk
78
Mosul International Airport
Mosul International Airport (IATA: OSM, ICAO: ORBM) is an airport located at Mosul, Iraq,
with a concrete runway. It became a civil airport in 1992 with the construction of a new
terminal. After undergoing major renovations to be able to reach international standards and
category 1 status, it reopened as a civilian airport on December 2, 2007. The airport does not
offer any domestic flights; all commercial flights to and from the airport are to international
destinations outside of Iraq.
Mosul International Airport
Mosul International Airport (IATA: OSM, ICAO: ORBM) is an airport located at Mosul, Iraq,
with a concrete runway. It became a civil airport in 1992 with the construction of a new
terminal. After undergoing major renovations to be able to reach international standards and
category 1 status, it reopened as a civilian airport on December 2, 2007. The airport does not
offer any domestic flights; all commercial flights to and from the airport are to international
destinations outside of Iraq.
79
Airlines and destinations (Note: All Flights suspended until further notice)
Airlines Destinations
Iraqi Airways Dubai, Istanbul-Atatürk
Jupiter Airlines Dubai, Istanbul-Atatürk
Royal Falcon Amman-Marka, Amman-Queen Alia
Turkish Airlines Istanbul-Ataturk
Medical Evacuation
While health-care facilities have been rebuilt in most urban centers, facilities in rural and
remote areas remain in dire condition. Facilities already coping with a poor supply of
electricity or water frequently also have to deal with unreliable sewage or air-cooling systems
and with inadequate solid-waste disposal. Equipment is often old and poorly maintained, and
sometimes is not operated correctly.
Poor hygiene levels in many facilities have a severe impact on the quality of care delivered.
Frequently, minimum standards of nursing, sterilization and waste management are not
respected owing to a lack of resources. Substandard care is particularly worrisome when the
patients are trauma victims, pregnant women or children, as it leads to high rates of infection
and frequent ill-health. Medical and paramedical staff report that even minor accidents can
sometimes be fatal because of inappropriate care. The number of beds in specialized services
such as intensive care and dialysis units is insufficient, and shortages of trained nurses and
paramedical staff oblige hospitals to rely on relatives to provide the patients with care.
Following is a list of countries that are with-in our flight capability and range:
• Jordan
• Kuwait
• United Arab Emirates
• Turkey
Airlines and destinations (Note: All Flights suspended until further notice)
Airlines Destinations
Iraqi Airways Dubai, Istanbul-Atatürk
Jupiter Airlines Dubai, Istanbul-Atatürk
Royal Falcon Amman-Marka, Amman-Queen Alia
Turkish Airlines Istanbul-Ataturk
Medical Evacuation
While health-care facilities have been rebuilt in most urban centers, facilities in rural and
remote areas remain in dire condition. Facilities already coping with a poor supply of
electricity or water frequently also have to deal with unreliable sewage or air-cooling systems
and with inadequate solid-waste disposal. Equipment is often old and poorly maintained, and
sometimes is not operated correctly.
Poor hygiene levels in many facilities have a severe impact on the quality of care delivered.
Frequently, minimum standards of nursing, sterilization and waste management are not
respected owing to a lack of resources. Substandard care is particularly worrisome when the
patients are trauma victims, pregnant women or children, as it leads to high rates of infection
and frequent ill-health. Medical and paramedical staff report that even minor accidents can
sometimes be fatal because of inappropriate care. The number of beds in specialized services
such as intensive care and dialysis units is insufficient, and shortages of trained nurses and
paramedical staff oblige hospitals to rely on relatives to provide the patients with care.
Following is a list of countries that are with-in our flight capability and range:
• Jordan
• Kuwait
• United Arab Emirates
• Turkey
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Hypertension sign symptoms cmdt style with regime
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