For generations, cinemas have been more than places where people watch movies. They have served as gathering spaces where families create memories, friends share experiences, and communities connect through storytelling. In Iraq, years of conflict and instability disrupted much of that tradition, leaving a noticeable gap in the country’s entertainment landscape. Yet from that challenge emerged an opportunity to rebuild not only an industry but also a sense of normalcy and shared cultural experiences.
At the center of that transformation is Zaid Jawad, CEO of Iraqi Cinema, whose vision has helped revive movie-going culture across Iraq. Through persistence, innovation, and a deep understanding of the role entertainment can play in society, Zaid has transformed Iraqi Cinema into one of the region’s most recognized cinema chains. More importantly, he has helped create safe spaces where families and young people can gather, enjoy cultural experiences, and reconnect with a tradition that had largely disappeared for many years.
Bringing Entertainment Back to Iraq
Zaid’s journey into the entertainment industry was inspired by a challenge he observed within Iraqi society after 2003. During a period when many forms of entertainment had become scarce, families found themselves with limited opportunities for recreation and cultural engagement.
“The inspiration was after 2003, when most forms of entertainment in Iraq were absent,” Zaid explains. “Families had very limited entertainment options available inside Iraq, including movie theatres.”
Recognizing this need, he set out to create something that extended beyond commercial success. His goal was to provide people with safe, modern entertainment experiences while helping restore an important social tradition. What began as a business venture gradually evolved into a mission focused on cultural revival and community impact.
Over the years, Iraqi Cinema has grown into one of Iraq’s leading cinema chains. What makes this achievement particularly significant is that it was accomplished in a market where cinema-going culture had largely disappeared for more than a decade. By bringing audiences back into theatres, Zaid helped reintroduce an experience that many Iraqis had not enjoyed for years.
Reviving Cinema as a Cultural Experience
For Zaid, cinema has always represented more than entertainment. He believes it can play a meaningful role in shaping communities and creating positive experiences for younger generations.
“We were able to provide a secure environment for the youth and help them avoid extreme ideas which armed groups were spreading among young people,” he says. “We revived cinema as a cultural part of the family’s outings.”
This belief has guided Iraqi Cinema’s growth from the beginning. Rather than focusing solely on expansion, Zaid remained committed to creating spaces where families could spend quality time together and enjoy shared experiences. In a country where many entertainment options had disappeared, the return of cinemas became a symbol of cultural renewal.
Today, Iraqi Cinema is recognized as one of the leading cinema brands in the region. The company has helped restore confidence in movie-going while introducing a new generation to the experience of watching films on the big screen.
Overcoming Challenges and Learning Along the Way
Building a cinema chain in Iraq came with significant challenges. Yet many of those obstacles became valuable lessons that shaped Zaid’s leadership approach.
“We faced many challenges,” he recalls. “First, I had no experience in the cinema world.”
One of his earliest discoveries was that operating a cinema involved far more than securing a location.
“At the beginning, I thought the movie theatre was about the building and seats,” he explains. “After the first project, I discovered that the equipment cost more than the location itself.”
Another major challenge involved earning the trust of international film distributors.
“The distribution companies didn’t accept providing movies to the Iraqi market initially, which took a huge effort to earn their trust,” Zaid says.
Rather than allowing these difficulties to slow his progress, he treated them as opportunities to learn and improve. Through persistence and relationship-building, he gradually established Iraqi Cinema as a credible and respected brand.
Balancing Commercial Success with Creative Responsibility
As a privately owned company, Iraqi Cinema must maintain financial sustainability while continuing to support artistic and cultural initiatives.
“Being in the private sector, we don’t take any funds from the government,” Zaid explains. “Earning profit is crucial in order to survive, but that does not mean we are not ready to provide assistance to Iraqi movies and young directors.”
This commitment is reflected in the company’s support for emerging filmmakers, screenings, premieres, and festival opportunities.
“We do so to back young talents in this field,” he says.
His approach demonstrates that business success and cultural contribution can work hand in hand, creating value for both the company and the broader creative community.
Creating Moments That Matter
Among all of Iraqi Cinema’s accomplishments, one achievement remains especially meaningful to Zaid.
“The achievement that stands out is that I was able to create a safe and entertaining environment for families and youth,” he says.
He points to recent screenings that brought together audiences from different backgrounds to enjoy the same experience. Those moments reinforced the impact he hoped to create.
“It made me feel that I was able to change some things in my community where they can enjoy entertainment and cultural moments,” Zaid reflects.
His definition of success reflects that same philosophy.
“My criteria of success is the families and youth that visit our branches and spend special moments watching the latest movies on the silver screen rather than watching them through pirated channels at home,” he explains.
Embracing Innovation and Expanding Cultural Horizons
Innovation continues to play a central role in Iraqi Cinema’s growth strategy.
“We supply state-of-the-art technologies into our chain,” Zaid says.
The company has introduced Iraq’s first IMAX theatre, advanced laser projection systems, Dolby Atmos sound technology, and premium viewing experiences that align with international standards.
Yet his vision extends beyond technology. Zaid sees Iraqi Cinema as a broader cultural platform capable of hosting theatrical productions, artistic performances, and appearances by actors, directors, and producers from across the region.
“Iraqi Cinema is not just an exhibitor,” he asserts. “We are pushing for more cultural events and expanding horizontally towards art and culture.”
Looking Toward the Future
As Iraqi Cinema continues to grow, Zaid remains focused on a vision that extends beyond cinema screens. He hopes the organization will continue showcasing global entertainment while supporting local talent and reflecting Iraq’s cultural identity.
“The legacy is that Iraqi Cinema keeps playing a major role in showing the latest movies and hosting local and regional actors, directors, and producers,” he says. “It should reflect the real cultural image of Baghdad and Iraq.”
His advice to aspiring leaders reflects the mindset that has guided his own journey.
“The most important thing is to believe in the business idea you want to pursue and fight with all your might to achieve your dream,” Zaid says. “With persistence, determination, and always finding solutions, you will reach your goal.”
Zaid Jawad’s story is one of vision, resilience, and purpose. By helping restore cinema culture in Iraq, he has done more than build a successful business. He has contributed to the revival of shared experiences, cultural engagement, and community connection. As Iraqi Cinema continues to expand its influence, Zaid’s leadership stands as a strong example of how determination and innovation can transform challenges into lasting opportunities.
