Money

Accepted Currencies

The official currency is the Iraqi Dinar but the American Dollar is also widely accepted.

Accessing Money

ATM (cash) machines in Iraqi Kurdistan are very rare so it is a good idea to withdraw money before you arrive. Useful currencies are the American dollar, Euro and Turkish lira. Make sure not to keep your money all in one place.

There is a functioning ATM machine in the Tablo Mall (Kirkuk Road) in Erbil that accepts Visa (and presumably Master-) cards. (April 2013)

The Rotana Hotel in Erbil claims to have ATM machines in their hotel that accept both Visa and Master card.

Changing Money

There are money exchange businesses in the cities but the best rates are often found in bazaars. Look out for men sitting on the kerb with large bundles of cash. Make sure you agree on a good rate before handing your money over.

Tipping

There is no wide practice or expectation of tipping - it is OK to pay the price requested for a product or service, or leave some small change as a thank you.