Erbil, Iraq’s "Little Dubai" – Ultimate Travel Guide
Visa Note ✔️ Entering Kurdistan from Baghdad? No additional visa needed. ✖️ But entering from outside Iraq requires a separate Kurdistan visa (different from Iraq’s!). Why Erbil? Dubbed "Iraq’s Dubai", Erbil’s skyscrapers, shopping malls, and buzzing cafés feel worlds apart from the rest of Iraq. Yet its 6,000-year-old soul lingers in every corner. 📍 Must-Do’s 1. Erbil Citadel 🏰 UNESCO-listed & the oldest continuously inhabited place on Earth. Climb up for panoramic views of the old town. Night Market: Bustling with grilled meats, crispy potatoes, and spice stalls. Pro Tip: Exchange money here (rate: 1,450 IQD/$1)—reliable and easy! 2. Stay Near the Citadel 🏨 Budget-friendly guesthouses (~20,000 IQD/person). No frills, but perfect for soaking up the atmosphere. 3. Getting Around 🚖 Use Careem (watch for drivers taking detours!). Citadel → Airport: Fixed 10,000 IQD by regular taxi. 💰 Why It’s Budget-Friendly Meals: Street food for ~5,000 IQD. Transport: Cheap taxis everywhere. Vibes: Free citadel walks + free sunset views! #IraqTravel #Kurdistan #Erbil #BudgetTravel #MiddleEastHiddenGems