Identity Verification

Last updated: June 2026

To maintain a safe and trusted marketplace for guests and hosts in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, Sheda requires identity verification before users can book stays or list properties.

Why we verify identity

• Safety — Both guests and hosts deserve to know who they are interacting with. Verified identities reduce fraud, scams, and safety risks.
• Trust — A verified community encourages honest reviews, fair pricing, and better experiences for everyone.
• Compliance — Identity verification helps us comply with local regulations governing short-term rental marketplaces in Iraq.

What you provide

1. A photo of your government-issued ID — Iraqi national ID card (unified card), passport, or driver's license. The document must be valid and show your full name clearly.
2. A selfie — A live photo of yourself for comparison with the ID photo.

How verification works

1. You upload your ID photo and selfie through the Sheda app.
2. An automated system (Google Gemini) analyzes the documents to confirm the ID appears genuine and matches the selfie.
3. A Sheda administrator reviews the automated result and makes the final approval or rejection decision.
4. You receive a notification of the outcome in the app.

How your documents are stored

• ID photos and selfies are stored in a private, access-controlled storage bucket. They are never publicly accessible.
• Only you, authorized Sheda administrators, and (for confirmed bookings) the host you are staying with can view your verified identity.
• Documents are permanently deleted when you delete your account (see our Data Deletion Support page).

If verification is rejected

Common reasons for rejection include:

• The ID photo is blurry, partially covered, or expired.
• The selfie does not clearly show your face or does not match the ID.
• The document type is not accepted.

If rejected, you can re-submit clearer photos from the Identity Verification section in the app.

Questions?

Contact us on WhatsApp at +964 750 709 8669.