Gift Giving Etiquette

Gifts play a significant role in culture. Bring a box of cookies, pastries, or a box of chocolates if you are welcomed to a residence in Iraq. Fruit baskets are also welcomed. More and more people are giving flowers to hostesses solely, though.

When buying gifts for your Iraqi coworkers, keep religion in mind. Avoid alcohol, meat items, and offensive packaging (i.e. containing images of partly dressed people, people drinking alcohol, pigs, dogs, physical intimacy). If a guy must present a lady with a gift, he should claim that it comes from his wife, mother, sister, or another female relative. A simple present for the kids is always appreciated. Gifts are presented using both hands. Gifts are typically not opened right away. Be aware that giving very expensive items can be misinterpreted as bribery.

Be careful that an Iraqi may feel compelled to offer you the item as a gift if you express admiration for it or complement one of their possessions. Therefore, it is recommended to refrain from making too many remarks on pricey and movable items found in people's homes.