Find out how to obtain SIM Card at Baghdad Airport (BIAP) easily, as well as prices, choices, and places to acquire.
This comprehensive guide will give you important details about the many carriers available, where to obtain a SIM card at Baghdad Airport (BIAP), and an outline of available prices. This guide will also assist you in making an informed choice and keeping in touch during your trip, regardless of whether you are an experienced tourist or a first-time visitor to Iraq.
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There are three main ways that you can get a SIM card at Baghdad Airport (BIAP). You have the following options:
At Baghdad Airport, you can purchase a SIM card from several locations: Arrival Hall, Mobile Network Provider Shops and Duty-Free Shops. Travelers often recommend using Asiacell or Zain for better coverage and customer service. Researching these providers beforehand can help you make an informed decision.
Asiacell is one of the major mobile network providers in Iraq and has a dedicated presence at Baghdad Airport. The kiosk will have prominent signage displaying the Asiacell logo, making it easy to spot. Staff members are usually available to assist you with any inquiries or to help you select the right plan.
Korek Telecom is another major mobile network provider in Iraq with a presence at Baghdad Airport. Similar to Asiacell, you can easily purchase a Korek SIM card at the airport kiosk.
Location: the Korek Telecom kiosk is located near other telecommunications providers and in the terminal’s shopping area.
Opening Hours: The kiosk usually operates during the airport’s business hours.
Price: The cost of the SIM card typically ranges from IQD 5,000 to IQD 15,000 (around $3 to $10)
Zain has two official stores/booths at Baghdad Airport where you can easily purchase an Iraq SIM card upon arrival.
Location:
Opening Hours: Both stores open from Saturday – Thursday, 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Price: The Zain bundle fee ranges from 5,000IQD – 30,000IQD (3.82$US – 22.92$US)
► Recommendation for tourists: If you’re unsure which network to select, we recommend Zain. Zain offers extensive network coverage across Iraq, and provides competitive pricing for tourists, with a range of packages.
No. The SIM card shops at Baghdad International Airport typically do not operate 24 hours. Most shops, including those that sell Korek Telecom SIM cards, usually open around 8 AM and close by midnight.
Advice: However, specific hours can vary, so it’s advisable to check upon arrival or confirm in advance if possible. If you arrive after midnight, you may need to wait until the shops open in the morning to purchase a SIM card.
At Baghdad Airport, SIM cards typically start at around 10,000 IQD (approximately $7) for basic prepaid plans. Prices may vary depending on the amount of data and call minutes included, with higher-tier plans offering more extensive packages available for around 20,000 IQD to 30,000 IQD (about $14 to $21). It’s advisable to check with the provider for the latest offers and specific plan details.
Here’s a table summarizing the SIM card options and prices available at Baghdad Airport:
| Provider | SIM Card Option | Price (IQD) | Includes | Validity | Notes |
| Asiacell | Basic Prepaid | 10,000 | 1 GB data + 50 call minutes | 7 days | Additional plans available for more data. |
| Medium Prepaid | 20,000 | 3 GB data + 100 call minutes | 15 days | Check for promotions at the kiosk. | |
| High Prepaid | 30,000 | 5 GB data + unlimited calls | 30 days | Best for longer stays. | |
| Zain | Basic Prepaid | 10,000 | 1 GB data + 50 call minutes | 7 days | Various plans may be available. |
| Medium Prepaid | 20,000 | 2 GB data + 100 call minutes | 15 days | Ideal for moderate usage. | |
| High Prepaid | 30,000 | 5 GB data + unlimited calls | 30 days | Inquire for additional features. | |
| Korek Telecom | Basic Prepaid | 10,000 | 1 GB data + 50 call minutes | 7 days | Good coverage in urban areas. |
| Medium Prepaid | 20,000 | 3 GB data + 100 call minutes | 15 days | Check for promotional offers. | |
| High Prepaid | 30,000 | 5 GB data + unlimited calls | 30 days | Recommended for extensive use. |
Note: Prices and offerings may vary, so it’s advisable to check directly at the kiosks for the most current options and details upon arrival at the airport.
To buy a SIM card at Baghdad Airport, tourists need to prepare the following:
This process can be complex, and many tourists may feel uncomfortable sharing personal information during registration.
For those seeking a simpler alternative, consider purchasing an international SIM card online before departure or opting for an eSIM. Both options typically do not require the disclosure of passport information, making them more convenient.
► Recommendation: If you want to avoid the hassle of registration at the airport, using an eSIM is an excellent choice. To use an eSIM, ensure your phone is eSIM-compatible and that you have access to Wi-Fi for activation.
When traveling to Iraq, purchasing an eSIM online is a convenient way to have internet connection. You can buy an Iraq eSIM from local mobile network operators that provide services for tourists or from trusted eSIM retailers. While both options are available, it’s often better to buy from a reputable eSIM retailer, as they offer a simpler purchasing process.
One recommended provider for travelers is Gigago. It is easy to activate your Gigago Iraq eSIM before your trip starts. You can get started with as minimum as 1GB of data for 7 days, priced affordably at around $10.50 .
Yes. You can buy Iraq SIM cards from major mobile operators like Zain, Asiacell, and Korek at Baghdad Airport.
Yes. Most Iraq providers provide traveler SIM card and eSIM as data-only.
For the most ultimate convenience, consider using an Iraq eSIM. If your phone doesn’t support eSIM technology, then using a local Iraq SIM card is the best choice.
In summary, getting a SIM card at Baghdad Airport is a convenient way for travelers to ensure immediate connectivity upon arrival in Iraq. With various prepaid options available from major local providers, visitors can easily choose plans that fit their needs. By preparing the necessary identification and understanding the activation process, travelers can enhance their experience in Iraq with seamless communication and access to essential services.
Everything you need to buy prepaid Iraqi SIM cards is available in this guide, including information on varieties, where to buy, the best deals, and the most recent pricing.
