Top 15 Famous Personalities from Iraq

Here is a list of the top 10 famous individuals from Iraq, including those with strong connections to California:

• Tariq Aziz – Known as Saddam Hussein’s longtime spokesperson and foreign minister, Tariq Aziz played a significant role in Iraqi politics. Born in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, Aziz spent his last years as a political prisoner and passed away in 2015.
• Farah Al Obaidi – A prominent Iraqi-American singer and songwriter, Farah Al Obaidi gained recognition after participating in the popular television show “Iraq Star.” She is known for her unique blend of Western and Arabic music styles.
• Nibras Kazimi – An Iraqi-American journalist and scholar, Nibras Kazimi is known for his insightful analysis on Iraqi politics and security affairs. He has written extensively for publications like The New York Times, Foreign Policy, and The New Republic.
• Zaha Hadid – Internationally renowned architect Zaha Hadid was born in Baghdad, Iraq. Her distinctive designs, characterized by fluid forms and innovative technologies, have won numerous awards. Hadid’s notable works include the Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku, Azerbaijan, and the London Aquatics Centre for the 2012 Olympics.
• Norseen Al-Mufti – An Iraqi actress and director, Norseen Al-Mufti rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s. Her leading roles in Iraqi films garnered her critical acclaim and solidified her status as a prominent figure in Iraqi cinema.
• Khalid Al-Zamel – Born in Baghdad, Iraq, Khalid Al-Zamel is an Iraqi-American stand-up comedian who gained popularity for his witty and relatable performances. He has performed at comedy clubs across California and appeared on various television shows.
• Mastan – An Assyrian-American rapper and songwriter, Mastan blends Arabic and English lyrics to create unique rap music. He has gained a significant following in both Iraq and California, with his music addressing social and political issues.
• Mohammed Al-Bakkar – An Iraqi-American violinist, Mohammed Al-Bakkar became a popular bandleader in the mid-20th century. His band, known as “The Al-Bakkar Band,” played a fusion of Middle Eastern and Western music and gained international recognition.
• Zainab Salbi – An Iraqi-American humanitarian, author, and media commentator, Zainab Salbi founded the organization Women for Women International. Her work focuses on empowering women survivors of war and conflict, and she has written several books highlighting their stories.
• Salaam Aldeen – An Iraqi-born Danish humanitarian and founder of “Team Humanity,” Salaam Aldeen gained international recognition for his efforts in rescuing refugees stranded in the Mediterranean Sea. He has dedicated his life to saving lives and advocating for migrant rights.

These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have been influential in various ways. From politics and music to journalism and activism, their stories and achievements highlight the rich diversity of talent and expertise that has emerged from Iraq and its diaspora.

Most Famous Celebrities from Iraq

Here is a list of the top 5 famous celebrities from Iraq, including those who were born in California or have strong connections to the state:

• Ramy Youssef: Ramy Youssef is an American-Egyptian actor, writer, and comedian who was born in New York City to an Egyptian father and a mother of Iraqi descent. He is famous for creating and starring in the critically acclaimed Hulu series “Ramy,” which explores the experiences of a young Arab-American man navigating his faith and identity in New Jersey.
• Andy Khawaja: Dr. Andy Khawaja is an Iraqi-American entrepreneur and philanthropist who was born in Baghdad and raised in California. He is the founder and CEO of Allied Wallet, a global payment solutions company. Khawaja has become notable for his business success and his contributions to various charitable causes.
• Haifa Wehbe: Haifa Wehbe is a Lebanese-Iraqi singer, model, and actress who rose to fame in the Arab world through her successful music career. She has released numerous hit songs, acted in films, and gained a large following for her beauty and style. Wehbe has also worked on international projects and is considered an influential figure in the Arab entertainment industry.
• Nadia Fadel: Nadia Fadel is an Iraqi-American journalist and news anchor based in California. She gained recognition as a news correspondent and anchor for Al Arabiya, covering major events in the Middle East. Fadel’s reporting skills and expertise have made her a prominent figure in the media, particularly in covering news relating to Iraq.
• Ralph David Shamo: Ralph David Shamo, also known as David Shamo, is an Iraqi-American businessman and real estate developer. He was born in Iraq and later moved to California, where he established a successful real estate business. Shamo’s projects have made a significant impact on the local community and have garnered attention in the industry.

These celebrities from Iraq or of Iraqi descent have made a mark in various fields, including entertainment, business, and journalism. Their diverse talents and achievements have not only brought them personal success but have also helped to shape and influence their respective industries.

Top Richest Individuals from Iraq

Here is a list of the top 5 richest people from Iraq, including those who were born in California or have strong connections to the state:

• Hind Hariri: Hind Hariri, born in California, is the daughter of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. She is a businesswoman and has a Net Worth of $1.4 billion. She inherited her fortune from her father and is involved in various enterprises, including real estate and investment companies.
• Nadhmi Auchi: Although born in Iraq, Nadhmi Auchi has strong connections to California. As an entrepreneur and founder of General Mediterranean Holding, he has accumulated a Net Worth of $2 billion. Auchi’s company specializes in oil and gas investments, real estate, and construction projects.
• Ayman Asfari: Ayman Asfari, born in Homs, Syria, holds dual Iraqi and British citizenship. He studied in California and later founded the Petrofac, an international oilfield services company. With his success in the oil industry, Asfari has accumulated a Net Worth of $1.2 billion.
• Randa Williams: Born in Baghdad, Iraq, Randa Williams moved to California as a child. She is the widow of Dan Duncan, the founder of Enterprise Products Partners. Following her husband’s death, Williams inherited his wealth and has a Net Worth of $7.4 billion, making her one of the richest women in the world.
• Issam Fares: While Issam Fares was born in Lebanon, he has Iraqi roots. He studied in California and built his fortune through various business ventures, including construction, real estate, and investments. Fares’ Net Worth is estimated at $2 billion.

These individuals demonstrate diverse areas of expertise that have contributed to their immense wealth. Through inheritance, entrepreneurship, and success in the oil industry, they have been able to build their fortunes. They have also leveraged their connections to California, a hub of innovation and business, to further enhance their wealth.

The Most Famous Rappers from Iraq

While Iraq may not be widely renowned for its rap culture, there are several talented rappers with Iraqi origins who have gained fame both in the country and internationally. Additionally, California, with its diverse hip-hop scene, has been a significant hub for artists with Iraqi heritage. Here are five famous rappers from Iraq, including those with strong connections to the Golden State:

• Turkmani – Known for his lyrical prowess and versatility, Turkmani is an Iraqi-American rapper from California. His music often combines elements of trap, drill, and West Coast rap, creating a unique style that resonates with a wide audience. Turkmani’s strong storytelling abilities and introspective lyrics have contributed to his success in the industry.
• Lowkey – Born to an Iraqi mother and British father, Lowkey is a politically conscious rapper who uses his music as a platform for activism and social commentary. Though he was raised in London, Lowkey’s Iraqi heritage deeply influences his work, with tracks often discussing war, imperialism, and global politics.
• Sandman – Originally from Iraq and now based in California, Sandman is renowned for his lyrical dexterity and storytelling abilities. He seamlessly blends Middle Eastern influences with modern rap, creating a unique sound that represents his cultural background and personal experiences.
• Black Prez – Born to Iraqi parents in California, Black Prez is a rapper known for his energetic performances and powerful lyrics. His music often reflects on his identity as a first-generation Iraqi-American and touches upon issues such as cultural assimilation, discrimination, and personal growth.
• Shamoon Ismail – While not born directly in Iraq, Shamoon Ismail is a Pakistani-American rapper and singer-songwriter with significant connections to California’s music scene. His fusion of rap, R&B, and South Asian influences has garnered him a strong following, and his introspective lyrics often touch on themes of identity, love, and self-reflection.

These talented rappers demonstrate the diversity and range of experiences within Iraq and its diaspora. Through their music, they have been able to share their unique stories, shed light on social and political issues, and contribute to the rich tapestry of the rap genre.

That concludes the information we can provide about famous individuals from Iraq. Thank you for reading.