Iraqi Dinar Exchange Rates Hold Near Record Highs on Parallel Market
The parallel market exchange rates for the US dollar against the Iraqi Dinar have remained elevated across major trading hubs in Iraq. On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, the rates were trading at 154,500 IQD per $100 in Baghdad and Basra, and 153,750 IQD in Erbil, according to price sheets published by the 964 Network.
The parallel market pricing is significantly higher than the Central Bank of Iraq's official benchmark rate of 131,000 IQD per $100. This spread reflects ongoing demand for physical cash dollars in local retail commerce and informal merchant transactions, while institutional cross-border wire transfers and formal import financing continue clearing through the Central Bank's electronic compliance portal at the official rate.
The rates held steady across Baghdad and Basra, with a uniform selling level of 154,500 IQD. Erbil posted a slightly narrower margin at 153,750 IQD per $100.