Currency
Iraqi dinar (IQD)
Cash is widely used; carry US dollars to exchange.
About Iraq
Meet in Baghdad—a historic capital and the host city for four days of regional scientific exchange.
Congress destination
Baghdad, Iraq
A meeting place with a long intellectual history.
Baghdad welcomes ArLAR27 as colleagues from across the region gather to exchange knowledge and shape what comes next for rheumatology. The Tigris, the city’s cultural life, and Iraq’s tradition of scholarship form a distinctive setting for the congress.
Confirmed venue, accommodation, travel, and local congress information will be added here as planning advances.
Good to know
Iraq at a glance.
The practical details worth knowing before you pack for Baghdad.
Official languages
Arabic and Kurdish
The congress language is English.
Time zone
UTC+3
Iraq does not observe daylight saving.
Electricity
230 V · 50 Hz
Plug types C, D and G.
Dialling code
+964
Local SIM cards are sold at the airport.
Airport
Baghdad International (BGW)
About 16 km west of the city centre.
Gallery
Glimpses of Iraq.
A first look at the country hosting ArLAR27. Hover to pause the strip.
Entry and visas
Arrange your visa before you travel.
Federal Iraq no longer issues visas on arrival. Eligible travellers apply online through the government portal and arrive with the visa already approved.
Open the official visa portal01
Apply online, before you fly
Around 37 nationalities can apply through the official portal. Visa on arrival ended for federal Iraq on 1 March 2025.
02
Cost
Approximately US$160 for a single-entry visa, including the mandatory health insurance.
03
When to apply
At least 24 hours before departure, though two weeks ahead leaves room for questions.
04
Passport
Valid for at least six months from arrival, with at least one blank page.
Entry rules change. Confirm the current requirements on the official portal, and with the Iraqi diplomatic mission in your country, before booking travel.
Weather
March in Baghdad.
Spring arrives with warm afternoons and cool evenings — comfortable conditions for four days of congress, and for exploring the city between sessions. Bring a light jacket for the evenings.
- Average high
- 25°C
- Average low
- 10°C
- Rainfall
- Low
- Humidity
- 27–43%
Plan your visit
Travel information, as it is confirmed.
Venue
The congress venue and recommended accommodation will be announced once arrangements are confirmed.
Travel
Airport, transfer, and arrival guidance will be published for registered participants.
Entry requirements
Travellers should verify current passport and visa requirements with the relevant Iraqi authorities before travel.
Local information
Practical guidance for your time in Baghdad will be added closer to the congress.