Iraq to Establish Six Airports and 15 Industrial Cities

The New Region

A map showing the path of the Development Road in Iraq.

Iraq's Ministry of Transportation announced on Friday, 25 July 2025, that six new airports and 15 industrial cities are planned as part of the country’s landmark Development Road project, following a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al Sudani.

Speaking to the Iraq's state media (INA), Maitham al-Safi, Director of Public Relations and Media at the Ministry, confirmed that strategic discussions are underway involving key ministries and international consultants, including Italian firm BTB and global economic consultancy Oliver Wyman.

Safi noted that the Prime Minister has called for strict adherence to directives and timelines, particularly the formation of a committee to finalise the route of the corridor between Iraq and Turkey. The route selection will be based on technical and economic feasibility.

During the meeting, Oliver Wyman presented the project's economic and financial model—developed in partnership with the Ministry of Transportation—which will be finalised ahead of being offered to international investors. The project has already completed its preliminary design phase and is now in the detailed design stage. It will be segmented to allow competitive bidding from international firms that meet global standards.

Safi emphasised that countries including Türkiye, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates are already involved through memoranda of understanding. Further cooperation is being pursued with European nations via a council comprising Türkiye, Hungary, Serbia, and Bulgaria. Interest has also been expressed by China, France, and Australia, with official visits made to explore potential investment or participation.

“This project will generate thousands of job opportunities for Iraqis, increase national GDP, and promote both domestic and international economic integration,” Safi stated. “Its goal is to connect all sectors of the Iraqi economy.”

He added that the Development Road currently includes three operational airports—Baghdad, Basra, and Najaf—and will integrate three more: Nasiriyah, Karbala, and the recently inaugurated Mosul airport. In addition, 15 industrial cities will be established along the corridor to reinforce its economic impact.

“The Development Road is not merely a transit route,” Safi said, “but a comprehensive economic initiative designed to benefit the provinces along its path through effective resource utilisation and coordinated investment opportunities involving local governments and institutions.”

The Iraq Development Road is a major infrastructure initiative designed to connect Asia with Europe through a comprehensive network of railways, roads, ports, and industrial cities. The project aims to link the Grand Faw Port in southern Iraq to the Turkish border, creating a strategic corridor that extends into Europe and enhances regional and international trade.



PUKMEDIA