Wondering if I need cash for taxis in Iraq or if I can just pay with card or app like in other countries?
My taxi driver in Baghdad was a great guy named Ali. He picked me up near the Al-Shaheed Monument and took me to the Tahrir Square area. He was surprised when I asked if he took cards and told me that cash was the only way. He said it was just too much hassle and fees with the card companies. The ride was smooth, and the cost was a fair 7,000 IQD. He even gave me a recommendation for a local tea shop. It was a pleasant experience that reminded me of the importance of carrying local currency.
Unless you're using a major ride-hailing app, cash is the only way to pay for a taxi in Iraq. I found the Obr app to be the most consistent in Baghdad, and it gives you a fare estimate, which helps with budgeting. However, it's not a complete solution. I always withdraw a good amount of Iraqi Dinars from a bank ATM, like the National Bank of Iraq, to be safe. It’s a cash-based economy, so having small notes like the 5,000 IQD or 10,000 IQD is essential for taxis and other small purchases.
I've been to Baghdad multiple times and can confirm you need cash for taxis. Don't rely on cards. I've tried to use my Visa card with ride-hailing apps like Bolt, and the drivers often tell you their machine is down or they would prefer cash. It's just easier for everyone to use cash. From Baghdad International Airport to the Green Zone, the fixed price is usually around $25 USD. I recommend having a mix of USD and IQD, as many shops and taxis will accept either. You should also negotiate the price before starting the ride.
For taxis in Iraq, cash is the primary and most reliable form of payment. The local currency is the Iraqi Dinar (IQD), but US Dollars (USD) are also widely accepted, especially in major cities. There are a few ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Obr, particularly in Baghdad and Erbil, that do offer in-app card payments. However, even with these apps, drivers may sometimes prefer cash. It's always best to have a mix of Iraqi Dinars and US Dollars on you. You can withdraw cash from ATMs at banks like the Bank of Baghdad or Capital Bank of Iraq.