Black Friday sales season transforms shopping culture across Kurdistan Region

Black Friday sales season transforms shopping culture across Kurdistan Region

Major year-end sales have rapidly become a defining economic trend across the Kurdistan Region, with shops, markets, and malls launching wide-ranging discounts throughout November. What began as an imported retail tradition has now evolved into one of the most anticipated commercial periods of the year.

Extended discount season reshapes consumer behavior

Businesses across the Region have rolled out significant price drops on nearly every category of goods—technology, cosmetics, clothing, food items, and household necessities. While global “Black Friday” originates from the United States and typically lasts only one day, local sellers have expanded it into a month-long discount season starting from early November.

This shift has changed buying habits, with many households now delaying large purchases until the end of the year, knowing that major markdowns will be available.

Discounts expand beyond markets into entertainment and services

The impact of the sales season goes far beyond retail. Entertainment centers and service providers have also joined the wave of promotions. Lana Hussein, a supervisor at a children’s games club, said her establishment launched a 50 percent discount to support schools, nurseries, and kindergartens.

She said the reduced rates make recreational trips more affordable, and that institutions bringing large groups — such as 100 children — pay as little as 500 dinars per student, totaling only 50,000 dinars. According to Hussein, the campaign is open to everyone, allowing families and schools to benefit equally.

Local sellers rebrand “Black Friday” with new names

While consumers eagerly await the massive discounts, sellers often avoid calling the event “Black Friday,” opting instead for names they feel resonate better culturally. Local vendor Peshawa Taha said many shops promote the event as “Gold Friday,” “White Friday,” or “Free Friday,” believing the original name sounds unappealing.

He added that customers are highly aware of the season and frequently ask about the timing of sales weeks in advance. “Sometimes a month before, people come and ask when the discounts will begin,” he said, noting that demand for sales is stronger each year.

Year-end sales become a permanent fixture in Kurdistan’s markets

Whether referred to as Black, White, or Gold Friday, the enthusiasm surrounding the discount season continues to grow. Markets remain busy as shoppers hunt for deals, solidifying year-end sales as a major tradition in the Kurdistan Region’s commercial life.