Choosing the right domain extension is one of the first and most important steps when setting up a business online. Should you go with a .IQ domain, or is a .COM domain the better option?

Many businesses assume that .COM is the default choice, but with local SEO and branding playing a bigger role than ever, a .IQ domain offers advantages that a .COM simply can’t match.

In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between .IQ and .COM and why businesses targeting Iraq should consider registering a .IQ domain.

What is a Top-Level Domain (TLD)?

A top-level domain (TLD) is the ending of a website address, such as .com, .net, .org, or .IQ.

TLDs are more than just website addresses—they affect SEO, branding, and customer trust.

For businesses operating in Iraq, a .IQ domain is a country-code top-level domain (ccTLD), which helps local businesses rank higher and attract more local customers.

Why Does Your Domain Extension Matter?

Your domain name is the first thing customers see when they visit your website. It tells them:

✔ Where your business is based.

✔ Whether your company is local or international.

✔ How trustworthy your brand is.

If your business is targeting Iraq, choosing a .IQ domain instead of a .COM domain can help you:

✅ Rank higher in local Google searches.

✅ Build stronger trust with Iraqi customers.

✅ Protect your brand identity and avoid confusion.

Let’s take a closer look at why .IQ is often the better choice for businesses in Iraq.

Why Iraqi Businesses Should Choose .IQ Over .COM

1️⃣ .IQ Domains Rank Higher on Google in Iraq

Google prioritises local domains in country-specific searches. This means that businesses using a .IQ domain are more likely to appear on the first page of Google when Iraq-based users search for products or services.

🔹 Better local SEO – .IQ domains help businesses outrank global competitors.

🔹 More relevant results – Customers searching in Iraq see local businesses first.

🔹 Higher click-through rates – Users are more likely to trust and click on a local website.

📌 Example: A law firm using BaghdadLaw.IQ will rank higher for “law firms in Baghdad” than BaghdadLaw.com.

If Google search traffic is important for your business, choosing .IQ can give you a real competitive edge.

2️⃣ A .IQ Domain Shows Customers You Are Local

When customers see a .IQ domain, they instantly know your business is based in Iraq. This helps build trust and credibility, which is especially important for:

✅ Government & legal services

✅ Banks & financial institutions

✅ Retail businesses & eCommerce stores

A .COM domain can feel more generic, and customers might wonder if your business is truly operating in Iraq. A .IQ domain removes any doubt and shows that you are established locally.

📌 Example: A real estate agency with IraqHomes.IQ instantly signals to customers that it is an Iraqi company, while IraqHomes.com could be an international business with no local presence.

3️⃣ .IQ Helps Protect Your Brand & Business Identity

One of the biggest challenges for businesses is securing a short, brandable domain name.

Many businesses struggle to find available .COM domains because most of the good ones have already been taken. This forces companies to use long or complicated names, which are harder for customers to remember.

A .IQ domain gives you more options and helps you:

✅ Get a shorter, more professional domain name.

✅ Protect your brand name in Iraq.

✅ Avoid legal issues with domain squatting.

📌 Example: If you own a tech startup, you might find that FastTech.com is already taken. But FastTech.IQ is likely available, making it a better option.

If your ideal .COM domain name is unavailable, securing a .IQ domain ensures you get the right name for your business.

4️⃣ .IQ Domains Are Required for Certain Businesses in Iraq

In some industries, having a .IQ domain is not just an option—it’s a requirement.

✅ Government contracts & tenders often require companies to have a .IQ domain.

✅ Banks & financial institutions prefer local domains for security reasons.

✅ Certain industries must use a .IQ domain as part of local regulations.

If your business operates in any regulated industry in Iraq, securing a .IQ domain is a must.

5️⃣ Easy & Secure Domain Management with Alshamil

Registering and managing a .IQ domain should be simple. That’s why Alshamil makes the process easy and hassle-free.

✅ Instant domain availability check – WhatsApp us, and we’ll find the best domain for you.

✅ Fast registration & approval – We handle everything with the Communications and Media Commission (CMC).

✅ Full DNS management – Easily update settings and manage your domain.

✅ 24/7 customer support – Our team is always here to help.

If you need a .IQ domain but don’t know what’s available, WhatsApp us now, and we’ll find the perfect name for your business!

How to Register a .IQ Domain

Getting a .IQ domain with Alshamil is quick and simple:

1️⃣ Pick a name – Not sure what’s available? We’ll help you find the right one.

2️⃣ Check availability – We search for the best options for your business.

3️⃣ Submit your documents – Business registration or ID verification.

4️⃣ CMC Approval – We take care of the paperwork.

5️⃣ Go live – Once approved, your website is ready!

📌 Need help? WhatsApp us now for a free domain consultation.

Final Verdict: .IQ or .COM – Which One Should You Choose?

If your business is focused on Iraq, a .IQ domain is the better choice for:

✅ Higher Google rankings in Iraq.

✅ More trust and credibility with local customers.

✅ Stronger brand identity and local recognition.

✅ More availability for short and memorable names.

.COM is great for global businesses, but if you want to stand out in Iraq and reach more customers locally, a .IQ domain is the best option.

Get Your .IQ Domain Today!

A .IQ domain helps your business grow in Iraq by improving SEO, trust, and branding.

✅ Boost your visibility in local searches.

✅ Show customers you are a trusted Iraqi business.

✅ Protect your brand with a unique, local domain name.

📲 WhatsApp us now for instant availability and registration help!