The vertical growth of buildings and its impact on the urban landscape in the city of Baghdad

Abstract

This research examines the phenomenon of vertical growth of buildings in the city of Baghdad and its impact on shaping the urban landscape during the period (2003-2025). Baghdad has witnessed fundamental transformations in its urban structure, represented by the gradual transition from horizontal to vertical building patterns, in response to multiple factors including rapid population growth exceeding 8 million inhabitants, limited land suitable for construction in central areas, and the economic and investment transformations that Iraq has experienced since 2003. The research adopted the analytical descriptive approach and quantitative methods, in addition to employing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) using ArcGIS 10.8 and remote sensing techniques for spatial data analysis. The study also included a field survey with a questionnaire distributed to 400 residents of areas adjacent to high-rise buildings. The research found that the number of high-rise buildings in Baghdad reached 247 buildings with an average height of 13.2 floors, and that vertical growth has significantly contributed to changing the urban landscape features of Baghdad through its impact on the skyline and traditional urban fabric. The research revealed a clear spatial disparity in the distribution of high-rise buildings, primarily concentrated in Al-Karada (18.2%), Al-Mansour (15.4%), Zayouna (13.0%), and Al-Jadriya (11.3%). The research concluded with comprehensive recommendations, most notably the need for regulatory controls for vertical construction that consider Baghdad's urban, environmental, and heritage specificity.