Local Customs & Etiquette in Baghdad, Baghdād, Iraq

1. Greeting etiquette

Iraqis often greet each other with a handshake or a light hug. Avoid physical contact until invited to do so.

Respectful Greeting: Show respect by using titles like 'Shaikh' for men and 'Umm' for women when addressing elders.
Non-Verbal Communication: Eye contact is important in conversations, but avoid prolonged staring.
Gender Segregation: In some conservative settings, gender segregation may be practiced. Be aware and respectful of local customs.

Modest clothing is appreciated in Baghdad. Women should cover their heads and avoid revealing clothes. Men should dress conservatively as well.

Respectful Dressing: Dress modestly to show respect for local culture and customs.
Avoid Offensive Clothing: Avoid clothing with religious or political symbols as they may offend locals.
Weather Adaptation: Baghdad's climate can be hot, so dress lightly but modestly during summer months.

Use your right hand for eating and passing food. Avoid pointing with your finger; use a bent hand instead.

Right Hand Use: Use your right hand for dining to avoid offense.
No Finger Pointing: Avoid pointing with your finger as it is considered rude.
Eating Slowly: Eat slowly and savor the food to show respect for your hosts.

Iraqis are known for their hospitality. Accepting an invitation to a home means entering a family's private space.

Respectful Acceptance: Accept invitations graciously, but let your host set the agenda.
Gift Giving: Bring small gifts like chocolate or coffee to show appreciation for your host's hospitality.
Family Privacy: Respect family privacy during home visits, and follow the lead of your hosts.

Smoking is common in Iraq, but it's impolite to smoke around women or elderly people.

Avoid Smoking Around Women: Respect local customs by not smoking around women.
Smoke Breaks: Expect frequent smoke breaks during conversations and meetings.
Public Smoking Areas: Use designated smoking areas in public places to avoid causing offense.

Tipping is common in Iraq. In restaurants, a service charge may be added to the bill.

Service Charge: Check your bill for any included service charge before tipping.
Rounding Up: Round up the total amount to a convenient number when tipping.
Tipping Taxi Drivers: Tipping taxi drivers is appreciated but not always expected.

Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially women. Avoid photographing government buildings and military installations.

Permission for Photos: Always ask permission before taking photos of people.
No Government Buildings: Avoid photographing government buildings and military installations without permission.
Respect for Women: Be particularly careful when photographing women, as this may be seen as disrespectful.

Bargaining is expected and even enjoyed in Baghdad's markets. Be polite and persistent, but not aggressive.

Polite Bargaining: Be polite when bargaining to maintain a good relationship with the vendor.
Persistence: Don't be afraid to persist in your bargaining, but do so respectfully.
Knowing the Price Range: Know the price range for items before bargaining to avoid paying too much.

Arabic is the official language. English is understood by some but not widely spoken.

Arabic Language Proficiency: Learn a few Arabic phrases to show respect and make connections.
English as a Second Language: Expect some communication difficulties due to English not being widely spoken.
Translation Apps: Consider using translation apps for easier communication.

Alcohol is prohibited in Iraq due to religious reasons.

No Alcohol Availability: Do not expect to find alcohol easily available.
Respect for Local Laws: Respect local laws and customs regarding alcohol consumption.
Cultural Sensitivity: Be culturally sensitive when discussing or asking about alcohol.

Business meetings in Iraq are formal and punctuality is expected. Build relationships before discussing business.

Relationship Building: Spend time building a relationship before discussing business.
Punctuality: Arrive on time for meetings to show respect.
Gift Giving in Business: Bring small gifts as a sign of appreciation for the meeting.

Iraqi cuisine is rich and flavorful. Eating with your right hand is common in some settings.

Right Hand Eating: Familiarize yourself with the custom of eating with your right hand.
Tasting Food: Accept food when offered and reciprocate by offering something in return.
Food Variety: Expect a variety of dishes, including meat, vegetables, and rice.

Iraq observes several public holidays. Understand these to avoid inconvenience.

Religious Holidays: Many Iraqi holidays are based on Islamic traditions.
National Holidays: Understand national holidays such as the Iraqi National Day (October 3).
Business Impact: Expect businesses to close or operate on reduced hours during holidays.

Roads in Baghdad can be chaotic. Be cautious and patient when driving or navigating traffic.

Driving Caution: Drive with caution due to unpredictable traffic patterns.
Traffic Laws: Follow local traffic laws and signs to avoid accidents.
Public Transport: Consider using public transportation for easier navigation of the city.

Iraqi weddings are elaborate affairs filled with music and dance. Weddings often last for multiple days.