Abu Haloub café: A hub in the heart of Baghdad’s Karrada

BAGHDAD — Strolling through Karrada on a Friday has become a cherished tradition for Baghdad’s residents and visitors alike. As sunset approaches, the district transforms into a bustling hub of activity, with locals gravitating toward its iconic landmarks. Among the favorites is Abu Haloub Café, known for its welcoming ambiance, rich history, and cultural significance.

The café’s owner, Mazen Hashem, better known as Abu Zahraa, shared with 964media the poignant story behind its name. Originally called Jamal Arkhita after its location, the café was renamed Abu Haloub in memory of Hashem’s younger brother, Aqeel Hashem Mohsen, who was killed in a bombing in 2014.

“The café was named after my younger brother, who was martyred in 2014 and whom my father used to call Abu Haloub,” Hashem explained.

Since its establishment in 1993, Abu Haloub Café has grown into a cultural institution. Initially serving tea, the café later introduced argileh (hookah), becoming a favorite gathering spot for intellectuals, artists, and activists. Regulars describe it as a space for open-air discussions and creative exchanges. Recently, the café expanded, adding a larger section across the street to accommodate its growing clientele.

Hashem proudly refers to the café as his “kingdom,” now boasting three branches in Karrada. Over the years, Abu Haloub Café has become a magnet for Baghdad’s cultural elite, including poets, writers, and artists.

Amar Karim, a journalist and decade-long patron, praised the establishment’s unique charm. “Abu Haloub Café is the heartbeat of Karrada,” he said. “Its outdoor seating and vibrant atmosphere draw a diverse crowd of journalists, writers, and poets from across Baghdad and beyond.”

Despite its evolution, Abu Haloub Café remains a cornerstone of Baghdad’s cultural landscape, offering a place where history, art, and community converge.