Dollar Dives Below 159k in Iraq Amid Volatility

The US dollar has continued its downward trend in Iraq's parallel currency exchanges. On September 21, 2026, it dropped below the 159,000-dinar threshold, a correction from previous market volatility.

Market tracking shows that despite this downward trend, parallel trading rates remain elevated above the Central Bank of Iraq's official statutory rate of 131,000 dinars per $100. In Baghdad, private exchange houses posted selling prices of 158,500 dinars per $100 against purchase rates of 157,900 dinars.

In Erbil and Basra, currency desks mirrored Baghdad's selling level at 158,500 dinars per $100, with buying rates settling slightly lower. The continued retreat across major trading hubs indicates a brief easing in panic-buying and currency speculation following last week's sharp climb toward 160,000 dinars.