The Department of Museums at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities announced on Saturday an extensive plan to develop and establish museums across Iraq’s governorates, alongside a comprehensive renovation of the Iraqi Museum in Baghdad. The department also outlined the expected completion dates for maintenance work and provided details about new exhibition displays.

Lama Yass, Director General of the Department of Museums, stated that the department continues to oversee the Iraqi Museum, the Museum of Leader Abdul Karim Qasim, and museums throughout the governorates. She confirmed that museums in Basra, Nasiriyah, and Samawah have reopened, restoration work at the Anbar Museum has been completed, and preparations are underway to reopen the Mosul Museum by the end of 2026.

Yass explained that the ministry’s current strategy focuses on developing and establishing museums in the governorates using the same historical sequence adopted by the Iraqi Museum — presenting artifacts from the oldest to the most recent periods. At the same time, each museum will preserve and highlight the unique historical identity of its respective governorate, enabling visitors to explore Iraq’s diverse heritage within their own regions.

She added that the Iraqi Museum is undergoing comprehensive maintenance and modernization, including upgrades to exhibition halls and display techniques. Special attention is being given to the Sumerian Hall, which has been closed since 2019 and will soon reopen with a redesigned presentation. Completion of the renovation work is expected in June or July.

Yass also revealed that a dedicated hall has been prepared to showcase a rare seven-meter-long Sumerian boat dating back to 3200 BC, discovered in the Uruk region. The boat is currently being restored through a joint effort between a German team and Iraqi specialists. For the first time, visitors will be able to observe the restoration process through glass barriers, offering a unique educational experience.