Erbil, Iraq
What 90% of solo women don't know about staying safe in Erbil.
The nightlife street that stays open until sunrise. Young crowd, restaurants, clubs. Gets uncomfortable late at night when it's mostly men. Go earlier (7-10pm) if you're alone.
Iskan Street is where Erbil goes for nightlife - stays open until sunrise. Restaurants, cafes, social venues all active late. Draws young Kurds and visitors who want evening entertainment. While most of Erbil shuts down by 9pm, this place keeps going. Younger crowd pushing the boundaries of Kurdish conservatism, though still relatively modest. Better lit than traditional areas with more security because of all the commercial activity. But the late-night party scene can feel uncomfortable as a woman alone - after midnight it's mostly men, which means more attention. More English speakers among the young crowd and staff. It's modern Kurdish youth trying to balance tradition with wanting a nightlife scene. Better to visit earlier (7-10pm) when it's busy but not yet dominated by the late-night party crowd.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
ModerateHarassment Risk
HighPublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
ModerateDrug Activity
HighHomelessness Visibility
Very HighGetting By in English
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"Interesting scene but I felt weird after 10pm alone"
"Late night it's all guys and you get a lot of attention"
"7-9pm was okay, more mixed crowd then"
"More liberal than downtown but still pretty conservative"
"Left by Careem around 10 before it got too late"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
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 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.
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.
Help other women stay safe in Iskan Street
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.