Erbil, Iraq
What 90% of solo women don't know about staying safe in Erbil.
British-built compound that feels like a suburb anywhere. Maximum security and Western comforts, but completely isolated from actual Erbil and you need a car to go anywhere.
English Village is a British-built compound with 410 villas and 48 apartments that could be anywhere in the world - gardens, quiet streets, suburban feel. Popular with upper-class locals, business people, and aid workers. Most villas are actually offices for international companies. It overlooks Sami Abdulrahman Park and sits near the Divan and Rotana hotels, so security is good. More English speakers here and the whole vibe is international, not Kurdish. There are restaurants, bars, the Neon Zone electronics mall, and Holland bazaar inside. Very safe with compound security, but zero cultural experience. Good if you want somewhere familiar and peaceful, but you'll need to go elsewhere to actually see Erbil. It's isolated - you need Careem or a car to get anywhere.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
LowScam Risk
LowPolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
GoodDrug Activity
Very HighHomelessness Visibility
Very HighGetting By in English
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"Super safe but honestly doesn't feel like Iraq at all"
"Nice if you want something familiar but kind of defeats the point"
"You're stuck here without a car, everything requires driving"
"Total expat bubble - might as well be anywhere"
"Zero worries about safety but also zero culture"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
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.
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 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.
Help other women stay safe in English Village
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.