Iraqis have always been a thriving community in Iran, with well-established populations in Ahvaz, Abadan and Ilam,[citation needed] but many have fled and settled in other countries because of events such as the 1979 Islamic Iranian revolution and the Iran–Iraq War.

In total, more than 11,500 Iraqis have returned in convoys facilitated by UNHCR from Iran, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon since the end of the war that led to the downfall of Saddam Hussein.

The majority of Iraqis have opted for life in Tehran, due to its high standards of living and greater job availability.

Another well-known Iraqi neighbourhood in Iran is Marvi Alley, a shopping area located in the centre of Tehran.

It is believed to have been the largest city in the world from 570 to 637 A.D.[5] The Iranian Ambassador to Iraq recently announced that Iran is committed to working with Iraqi national and provincials governments on a restoration of the great palace at Ctesiphon.