First-time Iraq Ziyarat checklist

Your first Ziyarat to Iraq is a once-in-a-lifetime journey, and good preparation lets you focus on the shrines instead of logistics. Work through this list in the order below.

8 or more weeks before

• Check every passport. Make sure each traveler’s passport is valid for well beyond your return date and has blank pages. Renew early; US passport processing can take weeks.
• Choose your group and dates. School breaks such as Thanksgiving and winter break are popular with families. See our upcoming trips.
• Reserve your seats. Occasion trips like Shaban and Arbaeen fill first.

4 to 6 weeks before

• Book flights with the group. Flying together from JFK means you land and leave with the KBM team.
• Apply for your Iraq e-visa. US citizens need an electronic visa before travel. Read our Iraq visa guide.
• Buy travel and medical insurance that covers Iraq, and enroll in the US State Department’s STEP program.
• Read the current US travel advisory and our safety guide.

1 to 2 weeks before

• Pack light and modest. Use our packing list.
• Bring US dollars in clean, newer bills for spending and exchange.
• Make copies of passports and visas, and keep a photo of each on your phone.
• Download your dua and Ziyarat books or bring printed copies.
• Tell your bank you are traveling.

When you land

Our team meets the group in Baghdad. Most groups begin with Kazmain, then travel south to Najaf and Karbala. Hotels are close to the Harams, so you can walk to the shrines for namaz. Expect crowds at the shrines, separate entrances for men and women, and security checks at every gate.