Baghdad: Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities, Ahmed Fakak Al-Badrani, announced today the selection of Baghdad as the Capital of Culture for Islamic Countries for 2026.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Badrani stated that Baghdad has been chosen as the Capital of Culture for Islamic Countries for 2026. The decision was made by the Arab League Educational, Cultural, and Scientific Organization (ALECSO) at its headquarters in the Maghreb. He noted that ALECSO is focused on the Islamic world and has decided to designate Baghdad for this cultural honor.

Al-Badrani mentioned that extensive preparations are underway, with the Ministry of Culture collaborating with the Ministries of Education and Higher Education, other ministries, and the House of Wisdom to organize the event. He also highlighted the influx of foreign tourists in Baghdad and their visits to significant sites such as Ur, Babylon, Ashur, and Hatra. The minister emphasized that there are ongoing statistics on tourist numbers visiting these archaeological sites, which will be announced by the end of the year.