Is Kirkuk Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Since 2017, Kirkuk has been occupied by Iraqi forces due to the small battle that took place there.

Although Iraqi forces control the city, there have been several terrorist attacks in Kirkuk, including suicide bombings, vehicle explosions, and gunfire, which killed many innocent witnesses.

The city is not recommended for travel.

However, if you need to visit this city, you can visit Baba Gurgur (Eternal Flame)- that has been there for more than 4000 years.

Kirkuk Citadel – considered the oldest part of the city.

The citadel stands on an artificial mound 40 m high located on a plateau across the Khasa River.

Warnings & Dangers in Kirkuk

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Kirkuk is not safe for travelers; you can only move around in groups and preferably with paramilitary security. It is not recommended to walk alone. If possible, it is better not to go to this city at all.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

You can move around the city only in your car, while it should be armored and guarded. If you use taxi services, be extremely careful, and do not drive alone. Cars in the city are often attacked. Take increased security measures.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpockets operate in crowded places in Kirkuk, in bazaars, and near mosques. It is better to keep personal and precious things in the hotel safe, do not carry a lot of cash with you, and do not flash with jewelry. Compared to other problems in the city, pickpockets will not worry you much.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

There is a risk of earthquakes, floods, and droughts in the region, resulting in high summer temperatures. However, the risk of these disasters is low. The most significant inconvenience brings high temperatures in the summer and sandstorms.

MUGGING RISK: HIGH

Armed robberies are prevalent here. For your safety, do not travel alone, stick to groups. If you were attacked, give what you are required to save your life. Do not go out into the streets of the city at night; it is incredibly unsafe. There are cases of kidnapping in order to obtain a ransom.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Terrorism in the region is extensive, especially from Daesh, who are responsible for most terrorism in Iraq. The likelihood of attacks is higher during Muslim services and in the mosque area. Remain vigilant at all times. It’s a good idea to have a militarized guard while traveling.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Street beggars and poor people can turn to tourists. They should not be trusted and should be avoided. Try not to chat with strangers. In crowds and crowded places, watch your pockets.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: HIGH

Women are not recommended to travel to Kirkuk themselves. It is even more dangerous to appear on the streets of the city at night. If you need to go to this city, then take care of the company, preferably men. Wear only modest clothes and do not attract too much attention.

So... How Safe Is Kirkuk Really?

In terms of crime, Kirkuk can be considered a reasonably safe city.

Here, the low crime index for all types of crime.

However, due to the high risk of terrorism and hostilities in the region, the city cannot be considered safe for travel.

The city is known for the case of kidnapping.

Most often, the victims of kidnapping are careless tourists for the sake of obtaining a ransom.

It is strictly not recommended walking around the city alone.

Better to move around in groups.

For travel, it is better to have an armored car.

It is a good idea to take care of paramilitary guards while traveling around Kirkuk.

There may be increased attention on Western nationals and interests in Iraq.

If you’re in Iraq or decide to travel, make sure you have robust security arrangements and contingency plans in place and keep these under review.

You should keep up to date with the latest developments across the country, including via the media and this travel advice, avoid any rallies, marches or processions, and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Terrorists have previously targeted religious gatherings, so you should strictly avoid participation in it.

Before your trip here, carefully consider all options for the development of events and plan a safe stay in this city.

How Does Kirkuk Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

By the Iraqi law, citizens of all countries require a visa to visit Iraq. Visitors from certain countries are given a visa on arrival in select airports, and individual states are banned from entering Iraq. Nationals of Israel are forbidden from visiting Iraq in general. A valid passport is a must.

Currency

The Iraqi dinar is the currency of Iraq. It is issued by the Central Bank of Iraq and is subdivided into 1,000 fils. It has code: IQD. ATMs exist throughout the city and are mostly located outside of banks.

Weather

The best times to visit Kirkuk for ideal weather are March to May or mid-October to December. Average temperatures in Kirkuk vary drastically and the weather feels nice most of the year, excluding some hot weeks in the summer, with a very low chance of precipitation throughout the year.

Airports

The Al Hurriya Air Base is a military airbase located near Kirkuk, Iraq. In 2012, the Iraqi Transportation Ministry decided to move the military section to another location, a prerequisite for turning the airbase into a civilian airport. Kirkuk Airport is open for domestic and international flights since 2019.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Kirkuk Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Iraq - Safety by City