Car Rental in Erbil

Where to drive

• Drive to Rawanduz Canyon and Bekhal Waterfall: Approximately 110 km (about 2 hours drive) northeast of Erbil, offering breathtaking natural beauty and scenic routes.
• Visit the Gali Ali Beg Waterfall and Shanidar Cave: Continue past Rawanduz for another 30 km (≈45 minutes) to witness these iconic natural wonders and historical sites.
• Explore Duhok and Amadiya: A longer trip, about 170 km (≈2.5-3 hours) northwest of Erbil, leading to the picturesque city of Duhok and the ancient mountaintop town of Amadiya.
• Journey to the archaeological site of Dwin Castle: Located about 60 km (≈1.5 hours) southeast of Erbil, this less-visited site offers a glimpse into the region's past.
• Relax at Lake Dukan: Approximately 100 km (≈1.5 hours) east of Erbil, a large reservoir popular for picnics and relaxation, especially during warmer months.

What documents you need

To rent a car in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, you will generally need a valid passport, a valid national driving license from your home country, and an International Driving Permit (IDP). Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 or 23 years old, with at least one or two years of driving experience. Some companies may have higher age limits for certain vehicle categories.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Erbil vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 EUR per day during off-peak seasons, while mid-range sedans could be 40-60 EUR. SUVs, popular for the region's varied terrain, typically range from 60-90 EUR daily. Premium vehicles can exceed 100 EUR per day. Expect prices to be 20-40% higher during the peak summer months (July-August) and around public holidays.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In the Kurdistan Region, driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas, 80-100 km/h on rural roads, and up to 120 km/h on highways, though these can vary and are often signposted. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is effectively zero. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Child safety seats are recommended for young children, but local regulations might not always strictly enforce specific types for tourists.

Parking

In Erbil, parking can be found in designated lots and sometimes on streets. Paid parking is common in central areas, often managed by attendants or parking meters. Free parking can be found further from the city center or at larger shopping malls. Always check signs and be aware of local parking restrictions to avoid fines.

Fuel stations

Fuel (petrol/gasoline and diesel) is widely available across Erbil and throughout the Kurdistan Region. Fuel stations are plentiful, particularly along main roads. Prices are generally affordable compared to European standards, though they can fluctuate. Payment is usually made in Iraqi Dinars (IQD), but some larger stations might accept US Dollars. Credit card acceptance is not universal, so carrying local currency is advisable.

Which car to choose

For driving within Erbil and to major nearby attractions on paved roads, an economy or compact car is usually sufficient. However, if you plan to venture into mountainous areas or less developed routes, especially to reach some waterfalls or historical sites, an SUV or a vehicle with higher ground clearance is highly recommended. Manual transmission cars are very common, but automatic options are usually available, though they might be slightly more expensive.

Frequently asked questions