Baghdad: The Cradle of Islamic Civilization

• Helloمرحبا
  [Marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [Wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [Naam]
• Noلا
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [Min fadlak]
• Thank youشكرا لك
  [Shukran lak]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [A'ithrana]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bikhayr. Wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatakallam al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [Ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [Arid an ara alqaimah, min fadlak]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا أكل لحم
  [Ana la akl lahm]
• Cheers!صحتين!
  [Sahatayn!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [Aawad an adfa', min fadlak]

• Help!النجدة!
  [Alnijdah!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [Izhab baedan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Itsal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [Itsal bitalib!]
• I'm lostأنا ضائع
  [Ana dhaa'ie]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [Arid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [Ana faqat atatala]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [Kam si'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غاليا جدا
  [Hatha ghaliyan jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuk khafdh alsir?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [Kam alsaa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [Alsaa'ah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد (10)
  [Alnisf baed (10)]
• Morningالصباح
  [Alsubah]
• Afternoonالمساء
  [Almasa']
• Eveningالمساء
  [Almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [Ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [Alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [Ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [Wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [Ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [Arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [Khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [Sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [Sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [Thamaniya]
• 9تسعة
  [Tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [Asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين ...؟
  [Ayna ...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [Ma huwa al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [Hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala alkhareeta)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [Mata yaati alhafilat altaliat?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [Tazkirah (ila ...)]

Founded in 762 AD by the Abbasid caliph Al-Mansur, Baghdad was strategically located along the Tigris River. Designed to be the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate, the city was intended to be a symbol of Islamic power and culture. The circular layout of the city, also known as the Round City, was unique for its time and included the caliph's palace at its center, surrounded by grand mosques and administrative buildings.

During the 8th to 13th centuries, Baghdad flourished as a center of learning and culture under the Abbasid Caliphate. Known as the 'Golden Age of Islam,' this period saw the establishment of the House of Wisdom, where scholars from various cultures gathered to translate and expand upon knowledge in fields such as science, mathematics, medicine, and philosophy. The city's bustling bazaars, libraries, and schools made it a beacon of intellectual and cultural development.

In 1258, Baghdad faced a catastrophic event when it was invaded by the Mongol Empire under Hulagu Khan. The city was sacked, and its libraries, including the House of Wisdom, were destroyed. This invasion marked the end of the Abbasid Caliphate and caused a significant decline in Baghdad's status as a cultural and intellectual hub. The devastation also led to a considerable loss of life and infrastructure.

In the 16th century, Baghdad came under the control of the Ottoman Empire. The city experienced periods of prosperity and decline during Ottoman rule, which lasted until the early 20th century. During this time, Baghdad served as an important administrative center, and the Ottomans invested in the city's infrastructure, including the construction of new buildings and the restoration of old ones. Despite being part of the larger Ottoman geopolitical landscape, Baghdad retained its unique cultural identity.

Following World War I and the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire, Baghdad became part of the British Mandate of Mesopotamia. In 1921, the Kingdom of Iraq was established under British influence, with Baghdad as its capital. This period saw significant modernization efforts, including the introduction of new educational institutions, healthcare systems, and infrastructural developments. The city began to expand beyond its historical boundaries and incorporated modern urban planning elements.

In 1958, the monarchy in Iraq was overthrown, and Baghdad became the capital of the newly established Republic of Iraq. This era was marked by rapid industrialization and modernization, though it also faced political instability and conflict. Significant architectural projects, such as the Baghdad Tower and the development of wide boulevards, reflected the city's modernization efforts. Baghdad continued to grow as a cultural, economic, and political center in the region.

The late 20th and early 21st centuries brought significant challenges to Baghdad, including the Iran-Iraq War, the Gulf War, and the US-led invasion in 2003. These conflicts resulted in extensive damage to the city's infrastructure and cultural heritage. Since then, efforts have been underway to rebuild and restore Baghdad. Despite ongoing challenges, the city remains a vibrant center of Iraqi culture and resilience, with ongoing projects aimed at revitalizing its historical sites and modern amenities.

Baghdad is accessible via Baghdad International Airport (BGW), which is located approximately 16 kilometers from the city center. Several international airlines offer flights to Baghdad. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a hotel shuttle to reach your destination. Alternatively, there are bus services available, but taxis are generally the preferred mode of transport for convenience and safety.

Within Baghdad, transportation options include taxis, buses, and private cars. Taxis are widely available and are a convenient way to get around. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Public buses are another option, though they can be crowded and less comfortable. For a more personalized experience, consider hiring a private car with a driver, which can be arranged through your hotel or a local travel agency.

The official currency in Iraq is the Iraqi Dinar (IQD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Baghdad, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash for your needs. Currency exchange services are also available at the airport and in the city.

Baghdad has areas with varying levels of safety. It is advisable to stay in well-secured areas and avoid neighborhoods with high crime rates, such as Sadr City and certain parts of East Baghdad. Always stay vigilant, avoid walking alone at night, and keep an eye on your belongings. It is also recommended to stay updated on local news and follow any travel advisories issued by your home country.

In case of emergency, dial 104 for the police and 122 for medical emergencies. It is essential to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Hospitals and medical facilities are available in Baghdad, but the quality can vary. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Ensure you know the location of your country's embassy or consulate in case you need assistance.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering a mosque. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake, but be mindful that some people may prefer not to shake hands with the opposite gender. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Baghdad like a local, visit the bustling markets such as the Al-Mutanabbi Street book market and the Shorja market for a taste of local shopping. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the historic Al-Mustansiriya School and the beautiful Al-Kadhimiya Mosque. For a unique experience, take a walk along the Tigris River and enjoy the local cafes and restaurants.