Iraq Launches Restoration Plan Ahead of Baghdad’s 2026 Islamic Tourism Capital Title

Iraq Launches Restoration Plan Ahead of Baghdad’s 2026 Islamic Tourism Capital Title
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Iraq’s Ministry of Culture is advancing preparations for Baghdad’s designation as the Capital of Islamic Tourism in 2026 through a comprehensive plan to restore and rehabilitate historical and archaeological sites across the capital and several provinces.

Mohammed al-Bayati, Director General of the Maintenance and Preservation Department at the State Board of Antiquities and Heritage, said several key sites have been added to the restoration program, including Khan al-Mahmoudiya, Bab al-Wastani, Taq Kasra, and Aqarquf, as well as a number of traditional houses in Baghdad. He confirmed that all sites are expected to be fully restored within two years, reflecting the city’s cultural and historical significance.

The plan also includes restoring two churches in Mosul and continuing work on the historic Mustansiriya School in Baghdad. Al-Bayati noted that restoration efforts follow UNESCO standards, relying on traditional techniques to preserve architectural authenticity.

He added that the ministry plans to launch digital applications for virtual tours of heritage sites and to enhance museum security with advanced monitoring systems, aligning with Iraq’s broader efforts to modernize its cultural infrastructure ahead of the 2026 celebrations.