Kurdistan bans use of Sheikh, Mullah, Sayyid in business signs and names
ERBIL,— Iraqi Kurdistan Region authorities have prohibited businesses from using religious titles and national symbols in their names, the Ministry of Trade and Industry announced.
The General Directorate of Companies Registration at the Ministry of Trade and Industry of the Kurdistan Region has imposed a complete ban on the use of religious titles such as Sheikh, Mullah, and Sayyid, as well as personal names and national symbols, on commercial signs and business establishments.
Authorities said violations will result in financial penalties.
Blnd Mam, Director General of Companies Registration, told media outlets on Thursday, June 4, 2026, that the measure is enforced under Regulation No. 15 of 2022.
The regulation prohibits the registration of religious names and national symbols for use in company names, business locations, and commercial signage.
He stated that the decision applies to all commercial establishments across the region and specifically bans the display of religious titles and national symbols on shop and market signs.
Businesses using such names without official approval and registration will face immediate fines ranging from 100,000 dinars to 1 million dinars.
He added that business names must correspond clearly to the type of activity and the commercial location.
The ban does not apply to businesses that had already registered such names and obtained official licenses before the regulation was issued.
Those establishments will not face legal action because their registrations predate the new rule.
The director also said that no further permissions will be granted for the use of religious names or national symbols in commercial contexts, stating that the policy is intended to preserve the dignity of such names.
(With files from Rudaw | NRT)
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