Language and Culture

The Kurdistan Region’s official languages are Kurdish and Arabic. Kurdish is the most widely spoken language and Arabic is also widely spoken and understood. The two main dialects of Kurdish are Soranî and Kurmanji.

Kurdish culture is a group of distinctive cultural traits practiced by Kurdish people. The Kurdish culture is a legacy from the various ancient peoples who shaped modern Kurds and their society, but primarily Iranian. Among their neighbours, the Kurdish culture is closest to Persian culture. For example they celebrate Newroz as the new year day, which is celebrated on March 21. It is the first day of the month of Xakelêwe in Kurdish calendar and the first day of spring. Other peoples such as Assyrians, Armenians, Shabaks and Mandeans have their own distinctive cultures.