Job Market Overview: Employment Statistics in Iraq

    Understanding Iraq's job market is crucial for both job seekers and employers. The country's current employment indicators show:


    Key Metric Current Status
    Total Population 40.222.493 residents
    Employment Rate 38.8% (below OECD average)
    Unemployment Rate 14.2% (moderately competitive market)
    Workforce Size 15.606.327 active workers

    These Iraq employment statistics reveal a balanced labor market where candidates should highlight specialized skills. The 38.8% employment rate suggests moderate job availability across sectors.

    Living & Working in Iraq: Economic Insights

    Before relocating or applying for jobs in Iraq, consider these key economic factors:

    Economic Indicator Value Comparison to U.S.
    Average Monthly Salary 517,32 USD 11% of U.S. average (significantly lower)
    Purchasing Power 23.9 moderate compared to U.S. (100)
    Source: World Bank, Numbeo - Last updated May 2025

    With 23.9 purchasing power, salaries in Iraq provide adequate but budget-conscious lifestyles. The average monthly salary of 517,32 USD is particularly attractive in the Petroleum sector.

    Top Industries & Job Opportunities in IQ

    Iraq's thriving job market spans these key sectors:

    Leading Industry Petroleum (growing at 5% annually)
    Emerging Sector Construction, Manufacturing (25% of workforce)
    Service Sector Tourism, Services (60% of GDP)
    Major Employers Iraq National Oil Company, Zain Iraq, Trade Bank of Iraq (hiring year-round)

    Job seekers should focus on Petroleum for the most opportunities, while Construction, Manufacturing offers growth potential. Major companies like Iraq National Oil Company, Zain Iraq, Trade Bank of Iraq frequently post openings for skilled professionals.


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    Working in Iraq - FAQs

    1. What's the employment situation in Iraq?

    With a population of 40,222,493 and an employment rate of 38.8%, Iraq offers a growing job market. The unemployment rate currently stands at 14.2%.

    2. Which are the top companies in Iraq?

    The leading employers in Iraq include Iraq National Oil Company, Zain Iraq, Trade Bank of Iraq. These companies offer diverse opportunities across multiple sectors.

    3. How far does salary go in Iraq?

    The purchasing power ratio in Iraq is 23.9, meaning cost of living should be carefully considered when evaluating job offers.

    4. How can I find jobs in Iraq?

    Search our listings filtered for Iraq. Focus on industries where Iraq National Oil Company, Zain Iraq, Trade Bank of Iraq are active, and consider that the 38.8% employment rate suggests moderate competition for positions.

    5. What should I know about working in Iraq?

    With Iraq National Oil Company, Zain Iraq, Trade Bank of Iraq as major employers, the job market tends to favor Construction, Manufacturing and Tourism, Services.

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