Iraq Network Coverage

Iraq's mobile telecommunications sector emerged in the 1990s and early 2000s as GSM networks began to spread, initially in major cities and gradually expanding to provincial centers. The market was liberalized in the early 2000s, allowing multiple operators to compete and driving rapid network expansion. However, the 2003 invasion and subsequent conflicts caused significant damage to telecommunications infrastructure, with operators facing security threats, equipment destruction and operational challenges. Despite these difficulties, mobile networks became essential for communication and coordination, and operators worked to restore and expand services. 3G services were launched in the late 2000s and early 2010s, bringing mobile internet to Iraqi consumers, while 4G LTE deployments began in the mid-2010s, initially in Baghdad and other large cities. Throughout this period, operators have had to balance network expansion with security concerns, often deploying infrastructure in challenging conditions while serving a population that relies heavily on mobile connectivity for daily life, business and access to information.

Today, Iraq's mobile market is served by three major operators – Zain Iraq, Asiacell and Korek Telecom – all operating extensive 2G, 3G and 4G networks. Zain Iraq and Asiacell are the market leaders, with the most comprehensive coverage and largest subscriber bases, while Korek Telecom provides competitive services particularly in the Kurdistan region. 4G LTE is the primary technology for data in urban areas, supporting video streaming, social networking, messaging apps and e-commerce, while 3G and 2G remain important for voice and coverage in smaller towns and rural districts. Network quality and speeds can vary significantly by location, reflecting infrastructure challenges, security constraints and high user demand. Mobile connectivity is central to daily life in Iraq, enabling everything from business communications and online shopping to social interaction and access to news and information. While 5G trials have been discussed, commercial deployment has been limited by security concerns, economic challenges and infrastructure constraints. Nevertheless, operators continue to invest in 4G expansion and network optimization to meet growing data demand from Iraq's large and digitally active population, recognizing mobile networks as essential infrastructure for the country's recovery and development.