Embassy of Iraq in Sofia, Bulgaria; address 21, Anton Tchekhov Street, 1113, Sofia; phone +35929733348. Head of mission: Lina Omar.
Head of mission: Lina Omar, Ambassador (as of 2024)
Iraq offers a unique appeal for some Bulgarian travelers, showcasing a blend of ancient history and cultural heritage, including sites like Babylonian ruins and the Mesopotamian plains. While the country faces modern infrastructure challenges, it remains an intriguing option for a segment of the 4.1 million Bulgarians who travel abroad annually.
Iraq is generally considered unsafe for tourists, including those from Bulgaria. According to the Global Peace Index, Iraq ranks 148th out of 160 countries, indicating significant safety concerns. In comparison, Bulgaria ranks 26th, reflecting a much safer environment. Crime statistics further highlight the risks: Iraq has a murder rate of 10.1 per 100,000 people, compared to Bulgaria's low rate of 1.3. Female murder rates also show a stark contrast, with Iraq at 3.3 and Bulgaria at 0.8. The Global Organized Crime Index reveals that Iraq faces severe challenges with organized crime, scoring higher on various crime indices compared to Bulgaria. For instance, Iraq scores 9.0 for foreign crime and 8.0 for human trafficking, while Bulgaria scores significantly lower in these categories. Overall, travelers from Bulgaria should exercise extreme caution and consider the safety risks when contemplating a visit to Iraq.