Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – Iraq has unveiled plans for a vast new urban district that will see more than one million trees planted, transforming a former military site in the capital into a sustainable hub.
The Baghdad Sustainable Forests masterplan, designed by global architecture firm Gensler for Iraqi developer Emkanat, will span 10 million square metres on the grounds of the former Al Rasheed military camp in the city’s southern Al Rasheed district, west of the Tigris River.
The project will feature expansive parks, retail space, and modern high-rises, including a landmark tower expected to rise 260 metres.
According to Gensler, the district’s extensive tree planting could capture 22,000 metric tons of CO2 annually.
Emkanat, which began as a designer of villas and commercial properties, has in recent years shifted its focus toward large-scale regeneration projects. By working with international partners and Iraqi authorities, the company has positioned itself at the forefront of sustainable urban development, aiming to blend ecological restoration with modern infrastructure.
