Security and health
The government formally recommends Australians not to travel to Iraq at this time (See specific travel advice for Iraq).
Australians planning to travel, or who are currently visiting or resident in Iraq, are urged to exercise care and monitor developments that may affect their safety through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's (DFAT) current general travel advice and bulletins. Individuals should take sensible precautions and ensure that travel documentation, including passports and any necessary visas, for themselves and their dependents are valid and up-to-date.
Security is a major concern. Should companies and individuals decide to travel to Iraq. Austrade would encourage you to consult with the Australian Embassy in Baghdad. You must plan your movements and security requirements in advance. There are Australian security firms operating in the region that can provide assistance including bodyguards, hardened vehicles, due diligence on property and potential Iraqi business partners, and security for staff, goods and buildings.
Health
Australians in Iraq should be aware of the health risks posed by infectious diseases, such as typhoid and cholera, and the poor capacity of Iraqi hospitals to extend medical care.
For information on prevalent diseases and inoculations, travellers should consult their doctor, travel clinic or the World Health Organization (WHO) website. Further information can be found in the 'Travelling Well' brochure.
Travel and health insurance is strongly recommended for all overseas travel. Travellers should check with their insurer to make sure that their policy meets their needs. In particular, travellers should seek advice from their insurer on what type of circumstances and activities are the subject of exclusions in their policy.
Visitors must not assume medical insurance coverage is valid in Baghdad. We suggest visitors must verify the extent and validity of their medical insurance coverage while in Iraq prior to travel.
Medical care is available in Iraq through 240 public hospitals and 70 private hospitals but all services are not up to Australian standard due to lack of equipment. All fees must be paid in cash. Many would be extremely dangerous places to stay from a security perspective.
The best public hospitals in Baghdad are Al-Yermouk in Mansour, Al-Kindi on Palestine Street in 7th Nissan, and Al-Shaheed Adnan on Baba Muadham Street in Rusafa.
Private hospitals in Baghdad would provide better care and service than public hospitals, but they have no emergency rooms and charge a higher fee. The best private clinics in Baghdad are al-Hayat on 52 Street in Karada, al-Rahebat in Karada, and Karkh hospital for surgery.
The best-known and well-stocked pharmacies in Baghdad with English-speaking pharmacists are Hunnudi and Al-Shaiklee.
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