Book flights to Sulaymaniyah (ISU) from Istanbul(IST)

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When you fly from Istanbul to Sulaymaniyah with Qatar Airways, every detail is carefully designed to make your journey exceptional from the moment you board. Experience renowned hospitality as our attentive cabin crew welcomes you, ensuring you are well cared for throughout your flight. Step into a modern aircraft interior, where spacious seating and elegant design create a relaxing atmosphere. Settle in and explore Oryx One, our award-winning in-flight entertainment system, offering thousands of movies, TV shows and games. Whether you prefer a light snack or full-course meal, enjoy a menu of gourmet cuisine, freshly prepared and inspired by global flavours. With plush pillows, soft blankets and luxury amenity kits, you can rest in unmatched comfort and arrive feeling refreshed.

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport provides a modern and efficient starting point for your international travels from Istanbul. Located on the Asian side, this departure point ensures a relaxed experience thanks to friendly staff focused on outstanding passenger service. When planning your journey, remember that IST is one of two Istanbul airports, so ensure you are at the correct one.

For transport, regular buses connect the airport to the nearest Metro station and the city centre, typically taking 30-45 minutes. Taxis are widely available, but consider asking your hotel concierge to book an official metered taxi for you, or use SAWKOOP taxis for fixed-price transfers. Parking is available in the four-storey car park next to the main terminal, which offers 4,700 spaces.

Allow ample time for your departure, as security checks are particularly tight; aim for one and a half to two hours before boarding to complete check-in and security. Within the main terminal, you will find 112 check-in desks and 24 online check-in counters, along with several VIP and business/first-class passenger lounges. Comfort is key here, with spacious waiting areas, mother and baby rooms as well as prayer rooms. Stay connected using the airport Wi-Fi, available for a fee, or use the fixed internet kiosks. Before you board your flight, explore the shopping area, which houses several high-quality outlets selling watches, perfumes, leather goods and accessories.

Discover Sulaymaniyah, often called Slemani, the cultural capital of Iraq. This dynamic city, framed by the beautiful Zagros Mountains, is celebrated for its literary legacy, which has produced renowned Kurdish poets.

The region’s stunning natural scenery is perfect for outdoor activities, such as hiking in the nearby Azmar and Goizha mountains. You can immerse yourself in local culture by exploring the historic Old Town. Wander through the large, bustling open bazaars where you can taste delicious regional food specialties and shop for traditional crafts.

To learn about the region's past, visit the Sulaymaniyah Museum, which houses a significant collection of Mesopotamian and ancient Persian artifacts. End your trip by admiring the scenic landscape around the largest lake in the region, Lake Dukan.