Baghdad selected as Capital of Islamic Culture for 2026
Iraq’s Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities announced on Thursday that Baghdad has been chosen as the Capital of Islamic Culture for 2026. The selection was confirmed during the 13th Conference of Ministers of Culture in Islamic Countries, held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from February 12-13, 2025.
Dr. Ahmed Karim Al-Ulayawi, Director General of the Iraqi Manuscripts House and head of the Iraqi delegation, stated that the ministry worked closely with the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) to secure this recognition.
Al-Ulayawi highlighted Baghdad’s historical role as a center of knowledge, science, literature, and intellectual contributions to Islamic civilization, emphasizing Iraq’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and reclaiming historical artifacts.
