Sami Abdulrahman Park is the largest green space in Erbil, spread over about 200 hectares. Its open lawns, walking paths and two lakes give the city a quiet place to walk, run or ride a bike. Families come for the playgrounds, boat rides and horse riding, and small shops sell snacks and drinks across the grounds. Look for the waterfalls and the water show, and save time for the rose garden and the Martyrs Monument.
From military base to public park
The park stands on the former site of a military base in Iraqi Kurdistan. The base was the 5th Corps Army base of Saddam Hussein's regime, and construction to convert the site into a park began in 1998.
The park is named after Sami Abdul Rahman, who was killed in a suicide bombing in 2004. Its name is the main reason many older residents still call it by the name of the man rather than the base.
Lakes, monument and rose garden
Two lakes are the centre of the park, and the water is used for fountains and boat rides. The lake edges are the easiest place to sit, with open views across the grounds.
The Martyrs Monument is also inside the park, and the rose garden is one of the calmer areas to walk through. Both are good stops if you want a slower pace between the sports areas and the play zones.
Walking, play and sport
The grounds have multiple walking paths, cycling lanes and open lawns. There is also a skateboarding area, a basketball court, a volleyball court and a tennis court, so the park suits people who want to be active.
A dog park is on the grounds, and there are playgrounds for younger children. You can rent a bike, and the park also offers horse riding.
Getting around and access
The park has a free parking lot and a paid parking lot. The entrance and the parking lot are both wheelchair accessible, and there is a public restroom on site.
Card, mobile and NFC payments are among the accepted methods, but the park also lists cash-only areas, so carry some cash for the small shops and kiosks.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
The input does not list an entry fee. The park has a free parking lot as well as a paid one.
Is the park good for children?
Yes. The park has playgrounds, slides and swings, and it lists kid-friendly hikes and a birthday-friendly setting.
Can I bring a dog?
Yes. The park has a dog park on the grounds.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
The entrance and the parking lot are both listed as wheelchair accessible.
