Iraq Launches the National Housing Policy 2025–2030

The policy places people at the centre of housing reform. It prioritises the needs of vulnerable groups, boosts economic activity through the construction sector, and strengthens collaboration between public institutions, communities, and the private sector. It ensures housing is addressed not in isolation but as part of a broader effort to build thriving, well-connected urban and rural communities across Iraq.

The NHP sets out a series of programmes and projects aimed at delivering affordable housing units with essential services, improving infrastructure, promoting sustainable construction, and enhancing institutional coordination. Implementation will be led by the Ministry of Construction, Housing, and Public Municipalities, under the leadership of H.E. Minister Mr. Bangen Rekani.

“The new NHP establishes the foundation for balanced urban planning and equitable access to housing and services. It presents a unified framework for delivering inclusive, data-driven, and sustainable housing solutions, implemented through coordinated efforts across government, the private sector, and development partners to ensure long-term improvements in quality of life through safe urban environments, inclusive housing, and access to public amenities,” said Minister Rekani.  

The National Housing Policy was developed through strong collaboration between Iraq’s institutions and international partners, ensuring it reflects both national priorities and community needs. Guided by Iraq’s National Development Plan, Vision 2030, and the Sustainable Development Goals, the policy advances a unified vision for sustainable, inclusive growth. It was made possible through the European Union–funded Building Equitable and Inclusive Transformation (BEIT) programme, implemented by UN-Habitat, in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Trade Centre (ITC). 

“Iraq is entering a new phase focused on long-term development and sustained economic prosperity. Now is the time to build essential linkages between housing, decent work, and sustainability. The European Union is proud to support this effort through the BEIT programme,” said the Charge d' Affaires of the EU Delegation to Iraq, Mr. Adam Janssen.

At the launch of Iraq’s National Housing Policy 2025–2030, UN-Habitat’s Regional Director for the Arab States, Ms. Rania Hedeya, saluted the Government of Iraq for its leadership in adopting a housing policy that places people, sustainability, and resilience at the centre of national development. She emphasised that the policy represents a model for how countries can link housing to climate action, economic opportunity, and social stability.  “This policy marks a defining moment for Iraq and for the region. It shows that housing is not only about providing shelter but about building pathways to dignity, prosperity, and resilience. By connecting housing to climate adaptation, economic growth, and social inclusion, Iraq is helping to shape the future of sustainable urban development across the Arab world.”

Mr. Ghulam Isaczai, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Resident Coordinator for Iraq, highlighted the policy’s inclusive and people-centred design:  “With this policy, Iraq is placing housing at the heart of its national development vision and affirming that every citizen deserves a safe and affordable home. The UN will continue to stand with Iraq as it turns this vision into reality, building homes, hope, and a more prosperous future for all.”

The full National Housing Policy document, including implementation strategies, roles, and responsibilities, is available in Arabic and English:

Arabic Version: [LINK] | English Version: [LINK]

For further information, please contact:

Marcus Tudehope | UN-Habitat Iraq Project Manager | marcus.tudehope@un.org

Ana Paes | UN-Habitat Iraq Communication Officer | ana.paes@un.org