The next phase of Baghdad's rehabilitation is a new masterplan, named Baghdad Sustainable Forests, which will act as a potent catalyst for the city's environmental restoration and revitalization.

In an ambitious new endeavor, Gensler and Emkanat have unveiled a historic vision to turn Baghdad into a global model for urban resilience. 

With an area of more than 10 million square meters, Baghdad Sustainable Forests aims to turn abandoned land into a flourishing neighborhood that will revitalize the city by establishing urban clusters and mixed-use villages surrounded by a vast forest.

"This is an exciting next step in the reconstruction of Baghdad and will provide a powerful catalyst for the regeneration of the wider city. The project will become a beacon for the rebirth of one of the most ancient cities in the world," said Glenn Wilson, Design Manager, Senior Associate at Gensler.

Arts & Culture Forest

According to Gensler, a pivotal metropolis in human history, Baghdad has suffered from physical and social deterioration throughout the ages, including desertification and soil degradation. 

Through the restoration of the land in the former Al-Rasheed military camp, which was once home to over 45 million tons of garbage, Baghdad Sustainable Forests hopes to spur urban renewal.

Developing a new destination for Baghdad to enhance the city's identity, embracing innovation to tackle future problems, and restoring the city's ecosystem with restorative settings are the three main tenets of Gensler's masterplan. 

The development supports Iraq's 2023–2030 National Environmental Strategy as the nation attempts to address current ecological challenges. It was created under the sponsorship of the Prime Minister's Office and the Government of Iraq, and it is being carried out in close coordination with the Baghdad Municipality and the National Investment Commission.

Forest Path

With a significant investment supporting the project, Baghdad Sustainable Forests will provide 1.5 million square meters of retail, commercial, and recreational facilities, opening up new avenues for job creation and economic growth. 

It has unique lifestyle villages and gateways to accommodate an expanding metropolitan population, such as: An majestic 260-meter landmark commercial and hospitality skyscraper serves as the cornerstone for the Al Rasheed Gateway. River Gateway, which restores public access to a section of the Tigris River.

The city's revitalization is symbolized by the National Pavilion, a 110-meter municipal icon situated among formal gardens. In addition, there are centers for education, entrepreneurship, and teamwork at the Science & Education Village, Tech & Innovation Village, and Creative Village. Vitality Village and Family Resort offers recreational opportunities and services geared toward wellbeing.

Health & Wellness Forest

"This is an exciting next step in the reconstruction of Baghdad and will provide a powerful catalyst for the regeneration of the wider city. The project will become a beacon for the rebirth of one of the most ancient cities in the world," said Glenn Wilson, Design Manager, Senior Associate at Gensler.

The masterplan's ecological design serves as its cornerstone, with parks, forests, and green spaces forming the district's structural core. With the help of more than a million trees, 22,000 metric tons of CO2 are expected to be captured each year, cooling the microclimate, enhancing air quality, and providing immersive experiences in anything from peaceful walks to lively public plazas. 

Kids & Entertainment Forest

In addition, a vast micro-mobility network that prioritizes e-scooters, walking, and cycling allows for easy, low-impact travel around the site while maintaining the ecological fabric.

While a network of gardens, water features, and gathering areas promote biodiversity and seasonal change, a number of themed forests—including Arts & Culture, Health & Wellness, Kids & Entertainment, Sports & Fitness, and a dedicated Ladies Forest—offer areas for creativity, wellbeing, and communal life.

Ladies Forest

Luxury Resort

"At Emkanat, we believe that the Baghdad Sustainable Forests is more than just a project or an urban masterplan; it is the first and largest of its kind in Iraq and the wider region. As one of our flagship initiatives, it reflects our broader vision as a company to lead transformative urban development across Iraq — creating destinations that balance sustainability, innovation, and quality of life," said Fadi Shoughri, CEO at Emkanat.

"This landmark initiative carries a message of hope for all Iraqis, marking a new chapter in the capital’s history by transforming neglected, waste-burdened land into a thriving oasis and a genuine opportunity for growth and innovation." 

"Our vision is for Baghdad — the beating heart of Iraq — to stand as a model for the region and a gateway that reflects a nation regaining its vitality and rising confidently toward the future. And while this project opens new horizons — from job creation and cleaner air to better quality of life — it also embodies the promise that Emkanat carries: to leave behind not just buildings but living legacies that inspire future generations," Shoughri added.

All images courtesy of Gensler.

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Baghdad Gensler masterplan sustainability urban resilience urbanism