Baghdad — Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa Al-Sudani has officially laid the foundation stone for the Baghdad International Hospital, a major healthcare project to be developed by Apex Health, a subsidiary of Qatar’s Estithmar Holding — one of the Gulf region’s leading investment firms.
During the ceremony, Al-Sudani welcomed the Qatari delegation, describing the hospital as a new milestone in Iraq–Qatar relations and a symbol of deeper regional cooperation.
The Prime Minister recalled the recent visit of Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who announced an investment package valued between $5 billion and $7 billion, covering multiple sectors across Iraq — including healthcare, energy, infrastructure, and tourism.
Creating a Pro-Investment Environment
In his speech, Al-Sudani reaffirmed his government’s determination to make Iraq a hub for international investors by streamlining procedures and reforming outdated regulations.
“We are building a business-friendly environment,” he said, “by reducing bureaucracy, updating investment laws, and ensuring that all investors receive transparent and fair treatment.”
The Prime Minister stressed that Iraq has now opened its doors to reputable global firms, highlighting Qatari Investment Holding as a key partner.
He added that Iraq’s private sector revitalization program has already attracted over $102 billion in investments, despite ongoing regional challenges.
Health Sector Takes Center Stage
Al-Sudani noted that the Baghdad International Hospital represents a cornerstone in Iraq’s broader healthcare modernization plan.
He emphasized that the health sector remains a top national priority, pointing to several key initiatives:
- The full implementation of the Health Insurance Law, aimed at expanding affordable coverage for Iraqi citizens.
- New partnerships with leading US and UK pharmaceutical companies to ensure medicine availability and improve production standards.
- Ongoing support for local drug manufacturers to increase self-sufficiency.
- Nationwide programs to upgrade hospitals, introduce modern management systems, and attract international expertise.
Al-Sudani added that Iraq’s cooperation with major investors like Estithmar Holding and Apex Health will bring world-class medical services and training opportunities, strengthening Iraq’s capacity to meet growing health demands.
Part of a Larger Growth Vision
The Prime Minister placed the project within the context of Iraq’s wider investment-driven development strategy.
He referenced the Development Road Project, a multibillion-dollar transport and trade corridor linking the Gulf to Turkey and Europe, calling it one of the most significant opportunities for global investors in the region.
Despite regional instability, Al-Sudani said Iraq is determined to stay on its reform path, focusing on long-term stability and prosperity through strategic partnerships and sustainable investments.
“Our goal is not only to rebuild,” he said, “but to build better — in health, infrastructure, and industry — with the help of trusted partners from around the world.”
The Baghdad International Hospital is expected to set new standards for medical care in Iraq, featuring advanced technology, modern facilities, and internationally certified specialists.
Officials say construction will begin immediately, with the hospital designed to serve thousands of patients annually and create hundreds of local jobs during and after completion.
The project marks another major step in Iraq’s broader efforts to diversify its economy, modernize essential services, and reconnect with global investors.
