How to Call Iraq
Complete guide to dialing Iraq (country code +964)
Planning to connect with friends, family, or business contacts in Iraq? Learning how to call Iraq doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're making your first international call or need a quick refresher, this comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling Iraq from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions to ensure your call goes through successfully, highlight common mistakes that could cost you time and money, and share essential phone etiquette tips to help you communicate effectively. You'll also find a helpful list of important numbers for emergencies, businesses, and services. By the end of this guide, you'll feel confident making calls to Iraq and staying connected with ease.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Iraq, you'll need to follow this format: Exit Code + 964 + Area Code (without 0) + Local Number. Iraq's country code is 964, and you must drop the leading zero from local numbers when dialing internationally.
Dialing from Different Countries
From USA:
Dial 011 (US exit code) + 964 + area/mobile code + local number
From UK:
Dial 00 (UK exit code) + 964 + area/mobile code + local number
From other countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's international access code (commonly 00 or +).
Step-by-Step Examples
Example 1: Calling a Baghdad landline
- Local format: 01 234 5678
- From USA: 011-964-1-234-5678
- From UK: 00-964-1-234-5678
- Note: Drop the leading "0" from "01"
Example 2: Calling an Iraqi mobile (Zain network)
- Local format: 0780 123 4567
- From USA: 011-964-780-123-4567
- From UK: 00-964-780-123-4567
- Note: Iraqi mobile codes start with 7 (after dropping the 0)
Example 3: Calling an Erbil landline
- Local format: 066 123 4567
- From USA: 011-964-66-123-4567
- From UK: 00-964-66-123-4567
Example 4: Calling another mobile (Korek network)
- Local format: 0750 987 6543
- From USA: 011-964-750-987-6543
- From UK: 00-964-750-987-6543
Important Tips
- Always remove the leading zero from Iraqi area codes and mobile numbers when dialing internationally
- Major Iraqi mobile prefixes include 750, 770, 780 (after dropping zero)
- Baghdad's area code is 1, Basra is 40, Erbil is 66, Mosul is 60
- You can replace exit codes with the "+" symbol on mobile phones
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Common Mistakes
When calling Iraq, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero: Iraqi phone numbers start with 0 domestically (like 0770 123 4567), but you must remove this zero when calling internationally. The correct format is: +964 770 123 4567, not +964 0770 123 4567.
Using the wrong exit code: Different countries have different exit codes to dial internationally. Use 011 from the US/Canada, 00 from most European countries, or simply use the + symbol which works universally on mobile phones.
Confusing the country code with area codes: +964 is Iraq's country code and must always be included. Don't confuse it with city codes like 1 for Baghdad or 30 for Basra, which come after the country code.
Incorrect digit count: Iraqi mobile numbers should have 10 digits after removing the leading zero (typically starting with 7). Landlines vary by city but generally have 7 digits after the area code. If your total number seems too short or long, double-check.
Adding unnecessary spaces or characters: While spaces help readability, some phone systems reject them. If experiencing issues, try entering the number without spaces or special characters.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Iraq, understanding local customs helps build stronger relationships and shows respect for the culture.
Greetings Matter
Always begin calls with "As-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you), the traditional Islamic greeting. Wait for the response "Wa alaykum as-salam" before proceeding. Taking time for initial pleasantries is essential—asking about health and family shows genuine interest and is expected before discussing business.
Formality Levels
Use formal language and titles when calling business contacts or elders. Address people as "Mr." (Sayyed) or "Dr." (Doktor) with their surname. Personal calls with friends allow more casual conversation, but maintaining respect is always important.
Timing Considerations
Avoid calling during prayer times, which occur five times daily. Friday afternoons are reserved for communal prayers. The best calling times are mid-morning or early evening. During Ramadan, avoid calling during fasting hours; evenings after breaking fast are preferable.
Business vs. Personal
Business calls require more formality and patience. Decisions may take longer as Iraqis value consensus and relationship-building. Personal calls tend to be lengthy, as abruptly ending conversations is considered rude.
Voice Messages
Many Iraqis prefer speaking directly rather than leaving voicemails. If you must leave a message, keep it brief and expect the person may call back rather than listen to it.
Cultural Sensitivity
Speaking loudly may be interpreted as anger, so maintain a moderate tone throughout your conversation.
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Emergency Numbers
Emergency Numbers in Iraq:
- Police: 104
- Ambulance: 122
- Fire Department: 115
- Emergency Services (General): 911 (available in some areas)
- Traffic Police: 130
Important Notes:
These emergency numbers can be dialed from mobile phones and landlines throughout Iraq. However, service reliability varies significantly by region, with better coverage in major cities like Baghdad, Erbil, and Basra. English-speaking operators are rarely available, so having an Arabic speaker assist with calls is highly recommended.
Response times can be slow due to infrastructure challenges and security situations. Consider also having contact information for your embassy, local hospitals, and private ambulance services. In the Kurdistan Region, emergency services may be more reliable. Calls to these numbers are free of charge where service is available.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance: Dial 104 for local directory inquiries and general telephone number information throughout Iraq.
International Operator: Call 143 to reach the international operator for assistance with overseas calls and connections.
Tourist Information: Contact the Iraqi Tourism Board at +964 1 887 6181 for travel guidance, site information, and general tourist assistance.
U.S. Embassy (Baghdad): +964 760 030 3000 for American citizen services and consular assistance.
U.K. Embassy (Baghdad): +964 781 926 280 for British nationals requiring support.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs: +964 1 537 9068 for visa inquiries and official matters.
Baghdad International Airport Information: +964 1 887 1300 for flight schedules and general airport services.
Telecommunications Complaints: 115 for reporting issues with phone or internet services throughout the country.
Tips for Calling Iraq
When calling Iraq, factor in their UTC+3 time zone year-round (they don't observe daylight saving time). For optimal connection quality, call during off-peak hours: early mornings (7-9 AM Iraq time) or evenings (after 7 PM) when networks are less congested. Peak afternoon hours often experience higher traffic and potential connectivity issues.
For business calls, always schedule appointments in advance. Iraqi business hours typically run Sunday through Thursday, 8 AM to 3 PM, with offices closed Friday and Saturday. Avoid calling during prayer times, particularly Friday midday prayers, which are culturally significant.
Plan around major holidays: Ramadan (month-long, requiring adjusted schedules), Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Iraqi national holidays like Independence Day (October 3). During Ramadan, business hours shift considerably, usually 9 AM to 2 PM.
For clearer communication, speak slowly and confirm important details via follow-up email. Connection quality can vary by region, so consider using internet-based calling apps as backup options. If working with Kurdish regions, note that some areas follow slightly different holiday observances. Always verify your contact's preferred calling times beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Iraq is +964. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Iraq from anywhere in the world.
To dial Iraq from your cell phone, enter + (or 011 in the US), then 964 (Iraq's country code), followed by the area code without the leading zero, and finally the local number. For example: +964-XXX-XXX-XXXX.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from the area code when calling Iraq internationally. If the local number starts with 0770, you would dial +964-770 followed by the remaining digits.
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In Iraq, the main emergency numbers are: 112 (general emergency), 122 (police), 115 (ambulance), and 113 (fire department). These numbers can be dialed free of charge from any phone within Iraq.
Yes! ZippCall allows you to make calls to Iraq directly from your web browser on any computer. Simply visit the ZippCall website, add credit to your account, and start calling Iraq without any software downloads or installations required.
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