Az Zubayr, Iraq
Region: Basra Governorate
Geographic Coordinates: 30.383300, 47.700000
Climate: Hot and dry summers, mild winters with occasional rainfall.
Population: 370000
Language: Arabic
Az Zubayr is a city located in the Basra Governorate, In southern Iraq. It is situated approximately 20 kilometers southwest of the city of Basra and has a population of around 200, 000 people. The city was founded in the early 20th century by Sheikh Khazaal Al-Kaabi, Who was an influential tribal leader at that time. The economy of Az Zubayr is mainly based on agriculture and oil production. The region has fertile soil and ample water resources which make it ideal for growing crops such as wheat, Rice, Barley, And vegetables.
Additionally, There are several oil fields located near the city which provide employment opportunities for local residents. One of the most notable landmarks in Az Zubayr is the Al-Qibla Mosque. This mosque was built during the Ottoman era and features a unique architectural style that blends traditional Islamic design with modern elements. It is considered to be one of the most important religious sites in southern Iraq and attracts visitors from all over the country. Another interesting feature of Az Zubayr is its rich history dating back to ancient times.
Archaeological excavations have revealed artifacts from various civilizations including Sumerian, Babylonian, Persian, Greek, And Islamic periods. These artifacts include pottery shards, Coins, Jewelry items as well as human remains. The climate in Az Zubayr can be described as hot desert with temperatures reaching up to 50°C during summer months (June-August). However due to its proximity to water sources such as Shatt al-Arab river which flows into Persian Gulf , It experiences mild winters with temperatures ranging between 10-25°C from December through February .
Despite being affected by wars and conflicts over recent decades , Az-Zubair has been witnessing development projects aiming at improving infrastructure facilities including roads , Schools , Hospitals along with private investment projects targeting different sectors like tourism industry . In conclusion, Az-Zubair is a city that offers an interesting blend of history, Culture, And modern development. Its strategic location near Basra and the Persian Gulf makes it an important economic hub in southern Iraq. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins or experiencing the local culture, Az-Zubair has something to offer for everyone.
- Al-Qibla Mosque
- Al-Masjid al-Jamei
- Al-Husseinia Mosque
- The Old Market (Souq)
- The Historical House of Sheikh Abdul Razzaq
It’s worth noting that due to security concerns and ongoing conflicts in Iraq, traveling to Az Zubayr and other parts of the country may not be safe for tourists at this time; therefore it’s advisable always to check with your embassy before making any travel arrangements to Iraq or any other country with security issues.
- Oil and gas: Az Zubayr is located near the Basra oil fields, which are some of the largest in the world. As a result, oil and gas production is the primary industry in the region.
- Agriculture: The fertile land around Az Zubayr makes it an ideal location for agriculture. Farmers grow crops such as wheat, barley, rice, and vegetables.
- Construction: With ongoing development projects in the region, construction has become an important industry in Az Zubayr.
- Transportation: As a hub for trade between Iraq and neighboring countries like Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, transportation services are also significant to this region.
- Retail trade: There are several markets and shopping centers that cater to locals’ daily needs like food items or household goods.
- Tourism: Although less developed than other regions of Iraq due to security issues caused by conflicts over time still there exist historical places that attract tourists from different parts of Iraq as well as foreign countries who come to visit these sites such as Umm Qasir Port or Al Faw Palace which was once used by Saddam Hussein’s regime but now serves as a tourist attraction site after its renovation by US forces during their occupation period (2003-2011).
- Battle of Az Zubayr: In 2003, during the Iraq War, British forces fought Iraqi insurgents in Az Zubayr.
- Abbasid Caliphate: During the Abbasid Caliphate (750-1258), Az Zubayr was an important trading center.
- Al-Mansur: Al-Mansur (ruled 754-775), the second Abbasid caliph, built a palace in Az Zubayr.
- Ottoman Empire: During the Ottoman Empire (1517-1917), Az Zubayr was an important center for trade and commerce.
- Sheikh Khaz’al Khan al-Kaabi: Sheikh Khaz’al Khan al-Kaabi was a powerful tribal leader who controlled much of southern Iraq in the early 20th century and had his headquarters in Az Zubayr.
- Oil industry: The discovery of oil in southern Iraq transformed its economy, including that of Az-Zubair, in the early 20th century.
- Gulf War: Coalition forces led by the United States conducted air strikes on military targets near Az-Zubair during the Gulf War (1990-1991).
- Marsh Arabs: The area around Az-Zubair is home to Marsh Arabs who have lived there for thousands of years and are known for their unique way of life living off fishing and agriculture while residing on man-made islands called mudhifs or floating reed houses called mashoof.
Overall, these events and people have played significant roles in shaping both history and culture within this important city located within Southern Iraq over many centuries.
- Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated nationwide.
- Ashura commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, an important figure in Shia Islam.
- Baghdad International Film Festival showcases movies from around the world and attracts filmmakers globally.
- Babylon International Festival celebrates Iraqi culture through music, dance, and art.
- National Day on October 3rd marks Iraq’s independence from Britain in 1932.
- Iraqi Airways Festival celebrates aviation history with air shows and vintage aircraft displays annually.
- Mesopotamian Marshes Festival highlights traditional music performances featuring local artists as well as boat races on marshes waterways near Basra city.
Please note that some events may not be held regularly or may be cancelled due to political unrest or security concerns without notice.
- Masgouf Al-Safina: This restaurant is well-known for its grilled fish dish called masgouf, which is a traditional Iraqi food.
- Al-Najaf Restaurant: It serves various local dishes such as biryani and kabab.
- Abu Shaker Restaurant: This restaurant specializes in lamb stew and rice with chicken, among other traditional Iraqi dishes.
- Al-Bashaer Restaurant: It’s famous for its seafood dishes like shrimp curry and fish soup.
- Al-Furat Restaurant: This place offers delicious kebab and falafel with hummus, among other classic Iraqi meals.
- Al-Mahdiya Bakery: Locals love this bakery because of its freshly baked bread that goes well with any meal.
- Al-Sheikh Ali Sweets Shop: It’s the perfect place to satisfy your sweet tooth with their delicious Arabic sweets like baklava and kunafa.
Please note that the information provided may not be up-to-date or accurate due to the lack of recent updates on the current situation in Iraq; therefore, it’s advisable to check before visiting any place mentioned above due to safety reasons or other factors affecting business operations during this time period (2021).
- Al-Zubair Park: This park is located in the city center and offers green spaces for picnics and relaxation.
- Al-Ma’arid Sports Club: This club provides facilities for football (soccer), basketball, volleyball, and tennis.
- Al-Salam Swimming Pool: This pool is open to the public and offers swimming lessons for children.
- Az Zubayr Zoo: The zoo houses a variety of animals including lions, tigers, monkeys, birds etc.
- Al-Faw Palace Museum: A historical monument that showcases the ancient civilization of Mesopotamia.
- Marshlands of Southern Iraq: A unique ecosystem that can be explored through guided tours by boat or foot.
Please note that these are only suggestions based on available information about Az Zubayr at this time; it’s always best to check with local authorities or travel guides for accurate information before planning any outings or activities in unfamiliar places.
