Baghdad Layover Guide (SDA)

What are you looking for in SDA?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Baghdad Airport (SDA) is an international airport located in Baghdad, Iraq. It’s situated about 16 km (10 miles) west of downtown Baghdad. The airport officially opened in 1982. Baghdad is the capital and largest city of Iraq, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city has long been a center of learning and art in the Arab world and offers a unique blend of tradition and modern life.

Can you leave Baghdad Airport (SDA) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Passengers transiting through Baghdad International Airport (SDA) cannot exit the secure zone without a valid Iraqi visa. If you wish to leave the airport during a layover, you must obtain a visa in advance, using the official e-visa portal. Processing times vary by nationality. Fees apply. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Al-Mutanabbi Street Explore Baghdad’s historic booksellers’ quarter, bustling with street vendors, cafés, and cultural energy. Browse rare manuscripts, enjoy mint tea, and immerse yourself in local literary heritage for a memorable experience. (Time required: 1–2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi ride approximately 30 minutes.)
• National Museum of Iraq Discover ancient Mesopotamian artifacts, including Sumerian tablets, Babylonian relics, and Assyrian treasures. Engage with immersive exhibits that showcase Iraq’s rich archaeological heritage and centuries of civilization in a captivating setting. (Time required: 1½–2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi ride approximately 40 minutes.)
• Al-Kadhimiya Mosque Visit one of Baghdad’s holiest Shiite shrines, adorned with golden domes and intricate tilework. Experience peaceful courtyards, devotional rituals, and admire exquisite Islamic architecture that inspires spiritual reflection and awe. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi ride approximately 45 minutes.)
• Zawra Park Escape into lush greenery, amusement rides, and lakes at Iraq’s oldest public park. Stroll botanical gardens, ride a Ferris wheel, and sample street snacks for local flavor with family-friendly activities. (Time required: 2–3 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi ride approximately 35 minutes.)
• Al-Shaheed Monument Marvel at the iconic split dome monument honoring Iraqi martyrs, surrounded by reflective pools and gardens. Learn about its symbolism and pay respects at this national landmark steeped in history. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi ride approximately 30 minutes.)
• Baghdad Zoo Discover local and exotic wildlife in spacious enclosures, from lions to giraffes. Enjoy educational exhibits, feeding sessions, and shaded pathways ideal for a leisurely afternoon visit amid safe, family-friendly surroundings. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi ride approximately 40 minutes.)
• Mustansiriya Madrasah Admire the 13th-century educational complex featuring stunning brickwork, muqarnas ceilings, and tranquil courtyards. Explore its museum displays narrating Baghdad’s Islamic scholarly legacy for architectural enthusiasts seeking cultural insights and inspiration. (Time required: 1–1½ hours. / Airport to here: Taxi ride approximately 30 minutes.)
• Tigris River Cruise Embark on a scenic boat cruise along the Tigris River, passing historic bridges, riverside cafes, and greenery. Capture panoramic city views as you glide past Baghdad’s vibrant waterfront districts memorable. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: Taxi ride approximately 35 minutes.)

Things to Do in Baghdad Airport (SDA)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Baghdad International Airport features the Ahlein Premium Lounge, open 24/7 in the departures terminal after security. It offers complimentary snacks, hot buffet dishes, soft drinks and coffee, plus comfortable seating, flight information displays, fast internet, newspapers, magazines and dedicated rest areas. Access is available via lounge membership cards or pay-per-use. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Baghdad International Airport Hotel sits within the airport perimeter a five-minute drive from passenger terminals. Its 100 refurbished rooms span Deluxe, Superior and Executive categories, each offering en-suite facilities, mini bar and round-the-clock room service. Onsite outlets include a lobby café, shisha lounge and restaurant, plus fitness and luggage storage. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Baghdad International Airport does not offer dedicated rest zones. Travellers can use benches and seating near gates 5 and 9 for short naps, although these lack padding. Two onsite hotels within the secure area—the Airport Hotel and Palm Hotel—provide comfortable rooms. Travel pillows are recommended. 24-hour cafés offer occasional respite.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Baghdad International Airport lacks free public Wi-Fi. Instead, local and international travellers can purchase 3.9G prepaid or daily data passes from Zain, Asiacell or Korek kiosks in the arrival hall. Alternatively, hotel rooms and lounges offer complimentary Wi-Fi. Roaming and eSIM data packages can securely ensure connectivity swiftly after landing.

SIM/eSIM Card: Visitors can buy physical SIM cards from Asiacell, Zain or Korek kiosks in the arrival hall after customs. Plans require passport registration and start at approximately USD 10 for basic data. Kiosks operate daily from 8 AM to 8 PM. Alternatively, eSIMs can be purchased online via Airalo or websites for immediate use. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Outside baggage claim, regulated taxi booths provide 24/7 service. Fares are not metered; passengers must agree flat rates—typically USD 30–45 to downtown Baghdad. Drivers accept cash only. Pre-booked private transfers guarantee fixed prices and English-speaking drivers. Ride-hail apps like Baly require local SIM and offer alternatives within city upon airport arrival.

Train: Baghdad International Airport is not served by rail. There is no train station on site; travellers must use taxi or bus to reach Baghdad Central Station for Iraqi Republic Railways services. Future high-speed rail line plans remain under development. For network routes and timetables, visit the Iraqi Republic Railways site more info.

Bus: Baghdad Municipality operates Bus route 1 between Baghdad International Airport and central districts such as Al-Jadriya, Karada and Al-Mansour. Local services run approximately every 30 minutes during daytime hours. Fares average 500 IQD payable with a Baghdad Card, available at kiosk sales points. Service hours are daily from 6 AM to 8 PM.

Shuttle: Baghdad International Airport offers a free internal shuttle service linking all passenger terminals and the Palm Jet VIP terminal around the clock. Major hotels like the Airport Hotel and Palm Hotel provide complimentary airport shuttles for guests. Private shuttle operators also run scheduled services between the airport and central Baghdad.

Car rentals: Major car rental companies including Avis, Budget, Hertz and Sixt operate desks in the arrivals hall of Baghdad International Airport. Self-drive rentals include collision damage waiver and mileage. Drivers must be at least 25 years old with a valid international driving licence. Pre-booking online is recommended to secure vehicle availability. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Baghdad International Airport provides short-term parking directly outside both passenger terminals. The first 30 minutes are free; thereafter an hourly rate applies. Long-term parking lots are located at the airport perimeter with a complimentary shuttle to terminals. All parking areas are under 24-hour surveillance and regular security patrols by staff.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

Baghdad International Airport lacks public luggage lockers. Travellers requiring storage can leave bags at the Airport Hotel’s luggage room for a nominal daily fee. Select lounges provide short-term baggage holding. Aramex designated cargo offices in the arrivals area also offer secure luggage storage services. Arrangements via hotel reception are advised. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Baghdad Airport (SDA) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks