Iraqi musician Nasir Shamma
Celebrating designation as Arab Tourism Capital
Renowned musician Nasir Shamma to lead ‘exceptional’ musical performance in Baghdad
BAGHDAD — Renowned Iraqi musician Nasir Shamma announced plans for an exceptional musical performance in Baghdad to celebrate its designation as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2025. The event will feature musicians from 14 countries in what Shamma described as a grand showcase “befitting” the cultural and historical importance of the capital.
The date and further details of the event have yet to be announced.
In December 2024, the Arab Tourism Organization declared Baghdad as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2025, recognizing the city’s tourism potential and infrastructure.
“I have brought together world-class musicians from 14 countries, including some of the most prominent names in the music industry, to present an exceptional performance worthy of Baghdad and to draw global attention to its heritage and cultural importance,” Shamma told the state-run Al-Sabah newspaper.
The performance will feature a blend of global music styles, promising a unique experience for the Baghdad audience. “The performance will be fresh and unique, featuring global music that the Baghdad audience will enjoy. I hope the experience will be a success,” Shamma added.
Looking ahead, Shamma revealed plans to visit several Arab countries, including Bahrain and Qatar, to participate in artistic festivals. However, his primary focus remains on ensuring the success of events celebrating Baghdad’s selection as the Arab Tourism Capital.
Nasir Shamma is a celebrated Iraqi oud player and composer, renowned for his mastery of the oud—a traditional Middle Eastern string instrument—and his significant contributions to music. Born in Kut in 1963, Shamma began studying the oud at an early age and graduated from the Baghdad Academy of Music in 1987.