Aylul Park: Erbil's Green Oasis with a Past

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Erbil's largest park, a symbol of freedom and renewal, offering green spaces, recreation, and a peaceful escape from the city bustle.

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Aylul Park

Aylul Park, also known as Sami Abdulrehman Park, is one of the largest parks in the Middle East, offering a green escape in the heart of Erbil. Once the site of a notorious Iraqi army base, it has been transformed into a symbol of freedom and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Aylul Park

622C+QM9, Erbil, Erbil Governorate, IQ

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit during the early mornings or late afternoons to enjoy the cooler temperatures and avoid the midday heat.
Weekends, especially Fridays, can get crowded, so plan accordingly if you prefer a quieter experience.
Take advantage of the shaded picnic areas by bringing your own food and drinks for a relaxing day in the park.

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Getting There

Taxi

Taxis are a readily available and convenient way to reach Aylul Park from anywhere in Erbil. Negotiate the fare before starting your trip. A short taxi ride within the city should cost approximately 4,000 to 6,000 IQD. From Erbil International Airport to the park, expect to pay around 17 to 21 EUR.
Public Transport

While Erbil has some bus routes, they can be infrequent and challenging to navigate for tourists. Taxis are generally a more practical option. Bus fares are affordable, but the lack of designated stops can be tricky.
Walking

If you are already near 60 Meter Street, walking to Aylul Park is a viable option. The park is located on the west side of the street and is easily accessible on foot. Be mindful of the weather, as Erbil can get quite hot, especially during the summer months.

Discover more about Aylul Park

Aylul Park, officially named Sami Abdulrehman Park, is far more than just a typical urban green space; it's a landmark that embodies Erbil's transformation. Spanning 200 hectares, this expansive park provides a refreshing contrast to the bustling cityscape, offering a serene environment for relaxation and recreation. In the era of Saddam Hussein, this land was a military base for the Iraqi Army's Fifth Corps, a place of torture and death for Kurdish people, especially Peshmerga fighters and those critical of the regime. The park's transformation began in 1998 when the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) initiated a cleanup of the area, opening the first phase to the public on March 14, 2000. The park is named in honor of Sami Abdulrehman, the KRG's former deputy premier, who tragically died in a suicide bombing in 2004. Today, Aylul Park welcomes thousands of visitors daily, with numbers soaring on Fridays. The park features diverse attractions, including a rose garden, various wild animals and birds, a health club with an open-air swimming pool, a gym, a sauna, two lakes, and a public library. The grounds boast approximately 400,000 trees, with 150,000 strategically planted to offer shaded picnic spots. The park also hosts international events, such as trade fairs and book fairs. For the people of Erbil, Aylul Park is more than just a recreational space; it symbolizes freedom and victory over a dark past. The Martyr's Monument within the park bears the inscription "Freedom is not free," serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for Kurdish liberation.