Is Baghdad safe to visit right now? (November 2026)

Travel advisories for Iraq

What the advice says

• The US State Department advisory is Level 4 - Do Not Travel, dated October 23, 2026, and it applies at the country level rather than specifically to Baghdad.
• The UK FCDO notes a high threat of terrorist attack throughout Iraq, with foreign nationals considered high-value targets; attacks have included large-scale bombings, rockets and mortars, shootings, suicide bombs, and vehicle bombs, and can occur in airports, markets, hotels, restaurants, religious sites, and other places visited by foreign nationals.
• There is a high threat of kidnapping across Iraq from Daesh and other militant groups, and the UK government's policy is not to make concessions to hostage takers, so travelers should not assume rescue or negotiation will occur.
• Some areas have experienced artillery, drone, and rocket attacks, including strikes in the Kurdistan Region around Rawanduz and Koya, and the security situation can change with little warning, sometimes requiring travelers to shelter in place with food, water, and medicine on hand.
• Protests occur regularly, including near the International Zone, and have led to casualties in clashes with security forces; curfews and vehicle bans can be imposed at short notice around protests, religious holidays, or elections, so travelers should avoid demonstrations and follow local authority instructions.
• Carrying photographic identification such as a passport or residence permit is a legal requirement, and checkpoints for ID checks are common within cities and on main roads; cooperation with officials at these checkpoints is advised.
• Given the widespread availability of guns and the risk of indiscriminate attacks, solo travelers should avoid unfamiliar areas after dark, stay alert in crowds, and keep travel documents current in case a rapid departure becomes necessary.