Erbil, Iraq
What 90% of solo women don't know about staying safe in Erbil.
The modern dining and entertainment hub with restaurants, bars, and trendy spots. More cosmopolitan than traditional areas, better English, good for solo dining. Still follows Kurdish standards though.
Dream City is the dining and entertainment area on 100 Meter Street, about 5 minutes from the airport. It's where people go for restaurants and socializing - everything from Kurdish food to international places. Stays busy late into the evening. More relaxed than traditional areas but you still need modest dress. Mix of young professionals, families, and some internationals. Well-lit with decent security since it's commercial and near the airport. More English speakers than downtown, and restaurant staff are used to foreigners. Solo dining works at the nicer places. It's become trendy - lots of people taking Instagram photos. More liberal than traditional neighborhoods but still Kurdish standards. The evening crowds make it feel safer, but use Careem instead of walking far after dark.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
LowScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
GoodDrug Activity
Very HighHomelessness Visibility
Very HighGetting By in English
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"Lots of restaurant options and felt safe with all the people around"
"Definitely more chill than downtown"
"Still had to dress modestly but got fewer stares"
"Nice to have somewhere to eat in the evening with lights and activity"
"Careem there and back was easy"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Erbil's big park with lakes and gardens. Safe during the day, family-friendly, government security nearby. Good for getting outside, but still need conservative dress.
The real Kurdish experience - ancient Citadel, traditional bazaar, local crowds. Very conservative dress required, almost no English. Fine for daytime sightseeing, but not comfortable in the evenings.
The Christian district with the most relaxed atmosphere in Erbil. U.S. Embassy means good security, dress code is more casual, and there are actual bars and restaurants. Doesn't feel very Kurdish though.
Help other women stay safe in Dream City
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.