The Iraqi capital is currently witnessing its most significant hotel development surge ever, with more than 20 luxury hotels and resorts under construction throughout the city. This remarkable construction wave is drawing major international hospitality brands such as Rixos, Rotana, Mövenpick, and Hyatt, indicating a renewed confidence in Baghdad’s tourism and commercial prospects.
This growth is poised to reshape the city’s hospitality scene, challenging the dominance of existing hotels and fostering a more competitive environment that promises improved services at more affordable prices. The developments are primarily focused in key areas along both the Rusafa and Karkh sides of the Tigris River, with the neighborhoods of Jadriyah and Karrada emerging as new centers for luxury accommodations.
Overview of Key Projects
Rusafa Side (13 Hotels): The majority of new developments are concentrated on the Rusafa side. Notable projects include the Hyatt Baghdad located opposite the Zaha Hadid-designed CBI tower, the upcoming Doo Hotel in Jadriyah, and the Mirage by Rotana. Historic hotels like Al-Sadeer and Ishtar are undergoing extensive renovations, with Ishtar set to be managed by River Rock Hospitality. Other initiatives involve several five-star hotel towers in Jadriyah and Karrada, the Platinum Hotel near Dijlah Village, and a new hotel within the Nawas Tower development.
Karkh Side (7 Hotels): On the Karkh side, especially within and around the International Zone, large-scale resorts are taking shape. These include the expansive Rixos Baghdad resort, Mövenpick Al-Zaytoun Hotel & Resort, and the Centro by Rotana within the Baghdad Residences project. Further south in Al-Dura, the Jewel of Baghdad Hotel is under construction as part of the Iraq Mall development.
This wave of hotel development extends beyond mere construction; it aims to establish modern infrastructure for tourism, commerce, and leisure. As these projects progress toward completion, they are expected to serve as catalysts for attracting more global brands, elevating Baghdad’s status as a regional destination.
Source: IraqiNews.com
