Building Connections – A Guide to the Iraqi Community in the UK
Whether you’re an Iraqi expat, a second-generation British Iraqi, or simply someone with ties to Iraq planning to visit the UK, connecting with the diaspora community can transform your experience. The UK is home to an estimated 350,000-450,000 Iraqis, with vibrant communities in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Cardiff, and Glasgow.
This guide explores the resources, organisations, and platforms that help Iraqis in Britain stay connected—both to their heritage and to each other.
Community Organisations and Support
The backbone of the Iraqi diaspora in Britain consists of several well-established organisations that have been serving the community for decades.
The Iraqi Association (Al Muntada Al Iraqi) has been supporting Iraqis in the UK since 1987. Based in London, they handle over 10,000 cases annually, offering welfare advice, immigration support, and integration services in Arabic, Kurdish, and English. They’re accredited by the Advice Quality Standards and the Office of Immigration Services Commissioner.
For families and youth activities, the Iraqi Welfare Organisation organises children’s summer camps, annual family gatherings, and publishes Al Mahjar magazine for the community. They also run a business directory connecting Iraqi entrepreneurs across the UK.
Those interested in the academic and cultural relationship between Iraq and Britain should explore the Anglo-Iraqi Studies Centre, which hosts cultural events, workshops, and maintains an extensive bibliography of English-language books about Iraq.
Cultural Events and Learning
London’s Arab British Centre has been running courses in Arabic music, calligraphy, and language for nearly two decades. Their library is open to the public and they regularly host lectures on Arab art history, including dedicated courses on Iraqi modern art.
Keep an eye on Arabic Events for listings of Iraqi Cultural Day celebrations, art exhibitions, and community gatherings across the UK. The annual Iraqi Cultural Day, typically hosted in partnership with the Iraqi Embassy, showcases everything from fine art to traditional bazaars featuring handmade Iraqi products.
Making Social Connections
One challenge many diaspora members face—particularly those who’ve been in the UK for years or arrived as children—is meeting others from similar backgrounds outside of family circles.
For Middle Eastern and Arab singles, platforms like LoveHabibi and ArabLounge cater specifically to the Arab diaspora, with millions of members across Europe, the US, and the Middle East.
The South Asian community in Britain has its own dedicated platforms. Dil Mil serves over two million users across the UK, US, and Canada, while LocalAunty takes a refreshingly different approach—focusing on mature desi singles in the UK with a forum-style community feel rather than the typical swipe-based format.
For those preferring a more traditional matchmaking approach, GoForDesi offers verified profiles for Indians and South Asians across the UK, US, Canada, and Australia.
Staying Informed
Understanding the broader context of Iraqi migration to Britain enriches our appreciation of the community. The UK has welcomed Iraqis since the late 1940s—initially intellectuals and professionals, later refugees fleeing political persecution, and more recently those displaced by conflict.
For academic perspectives on diaspora mobilisation and community dynamics, the Arab Reform Initiative’s research provides valuable insights into how UK-based Iraqis engage with homeland politics and community building.
The UK Government’s Iraq development partnership outlines ongoing support for displaced Iraqis, women’s empowerment initiatives, and economic development—relevant context for anyone with ties to both nations.
Final Thoughts
The Iraqi community in Britain has built robust networks over seven decades. Whether you’re seeking practical support, cultural enrichment, or simply want to connect with others who understand your background, the resources exist.
If you’re travelling to Iraq from the UK, understanding these diaspora connections can also help you navigate dual identities—many British Iraqis maintain strong ties to family back home while building lives here.
Have we missed any organisations or resources? Get in touch and let us know.
| Platform | Focus | Audience |
|---|---|---|
| LoveHabibi | Arab & Muslim Dating | Global Arab diaspora |
| ArabLounge | Middle Eastern Singles | Arabs worldwide since 2002 |
| Dil Mil | South Asian Dating | 2M+ users in UK, US, Canada |
| LocalAunty | Mature Desi Community | UK-based South Asian singles |
| GoForDesi | Indian Matrimonial | NRIs in UK, US, Canada, Australia |
