For Baghdad, it's recommended to hire a local guide for first visits, stay in secure hotels (Green Zone, Karrada), use only Careem app or hotel taxis, avoid walking alone after dark, and carry your passport due to frequent checkpoints. In the holy cities, modest dress is mandatory (abaya for women, long trousers for men), and visitors should respect religious rituals and behavior. For transportation, use Careem which operates in major cities with safety features, or hotel taxis and official airport stands. For communication, purchase SIM cards from Zain, Asiacell, or Korek with tourist packages for $10-$20. Always dress appropriately for the region - Kurdistan accepts normal Western clothing with shoulders preferably covered, while Baghdad and the south require long, loose-fitting clothing covering shoulders and knees. For more: Iraq Safety: 2025 Travel Guide