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local etiquette and traditions: how not to offend people in al bazrah

@Mila Sanders2/8/2026blog

al bazrah, i just got back from a week-long stint in this amazing city in iraq and i'm still reeling from the experience. like, i know what you're thinking - iraq? isn't that a bit of a no-go zone these days? but trust me, this place is a whole different story. so, i've compiled some crucial tips on how not to offend the locals, based on what i overheard from my hotel bartender, a group of travelers on the hostel rooftop, and a few willing participants in my ridiculous games of ' iraqi customs ' with my hostel mates.

first off, let's talk about the weather. it's currently a heatwave, with temps soaring past 45 degrees celcius (113 fahrenheit). like, i'm pretty sure i saw a bird just lie down and die in the middle of the sidewalk. anyway, if you're planning on visiting, make sure to pack your sunscreen, a hat, and a nice pair of socks (you'll appreciate the air-con in your hotel room, trust me).

now, about those local customs. so, i've been told that in al bazrah, it's considered impolite to point with your right hand (use your left instead, or just wave with your whole arm like a madman - i mean, who needs subtlety, right?). also, don't even get me started on the importance of removing your shoes before entering someone's home (i saw a family just literally drag their shoes across the floor - it was like a united nations security council meeting in there).

but the real kicker was when i tried to take a photo of a local's grandkid without permission. let's just say i won't be invited to any family gatherings anytime soon. something a local warned me about: 'don't take pictures of our kids, they're like our security cameras - everyone's always watching'.

some other nuggets of info from my barfly barometer (that's a thing, right?):
the cheapest meal in town is at this tiny little place on the corner of a side street - go for the 'mawzeh' (stuffed grape leaves). don't ask me what's in it, just trust me on this one.
 the best place to buy a souvenir is at this bustling market on the outskirts of town - just watch out for the vegans (i saw someone selling 'halal' spices, but i'm pretty sure that's just a euphemism for ' spices').
* the local football team, naft al-jourd, is on fire this season (sorry, had to). but seriously, if you can catch a match at the stadium, it's an experience you won't soon forget.

see you in al bazrah!

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About the author: Mila Sanders

Believes that every problem has a solution (or at least a workaround).

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