Baghdad Named Arab Tourism Capital for 2025

The Arab Tourism Organisation has officially selected Baghdad as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2025. The announcement was made during the 27th session of the Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism, held at the League of Arab States headquarters in Cairo, Egypt. The decision highlights Baghdad’s readiness to embrace its role as a central hub for tourism in the region. This was endorsed by the Arab Ministers of Tourism Council.

Baghdad’s selection came after the city successfully fulfilled a set of rigid criteria established by the Arab Tourism Organisation. The criteria includes assurance of safety and health standards, rich tourism resources and diverse activities, strong tourism management infrastructure, and finally, a commitment to environmental conservation and responsiveness to global tourism trends. With this criteria, and Baghdad’s historical significance and cultural richness, it was an ideal choice for the title.

Dr. Bandar bin Fahd Al Fuhaid, President of the Arab Tourism Organisation, congratulated both the Iraqi people, and leadership, emphasising the significance of this decision. He highlighted the goals of the initiative were to strengthen inter-Arab tourism and encourage cultural connections whilst showcasing Baghdad’s unique history and contributions to Arab culture. 

To mark this occasion, a series of events and programmes will take place in Baghdad throughout 2025. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will collaborate with the Arab Tourism Organisation to host an introductory ceremony at the beginning of the year, celebrating Baghdad’s status as the Arab Tourism Capital.

This recognition positions Baghdad not only as a cultural and historical treasure but also as a modern destination, ready to play a crucial role in revitalising tourism across the Arab world. With its storied past, vibrant culture, and ongoing developments, Baghdad is set to welcome tourists eager to explore its beauty and heritage, strengthening its role in the Arab tourism industry.

Baghdad’s designation as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2025 reflects the city’s resilience and cultural importance, signalling a promising future for tourism in Iraq and the broader Arab region.

Source: Arab Tourism Organisation