The Iraq data center project officially started this week as the Ministry of Communications signed a deal with Nokia. The agreement will establish Iraq’s first state-owned data centers in Baghdad. Officials said the partnership marks a critical step in securing national data and enabling digital transformation.
The project includes two advanced facilities. One will be built at the Al Intisar site, while the other will rise inside the Al Rasheed exchange in Baghdad’s Al Senak district. According to the ministry, both centers will meet international standards and operate under Iraqi management.
Moreover, the facilities will serve not only government agencies but also private sector companies. Leaders stressed that citizens’ and businesses’ data must remain inside Iraq. By hosting sensitive information locally, the government hopes to strengthen both sovereignty and security.
Communications Minister Hiyam Al Yasiri described the initiative as a cornerstone of digital reform. She said that building modern data centers complements the expansion of fiber optic networks and faster internet services. For her, reliable infrastructure remains the backbone of e-government and economic growth.
Nokia has prior experience in Iraq. The company previously developed a smaller center for the Ministry of Planning to support the national census. That success encouraged broader cooperation. Officials emphasized that Nokia’s global expertise will ensure Iraq benefits from the latest technologies.
According to Nokia, the Baghdad centers will support governance, digitalization, and e-services. They will also expand Iraq’s ability to process information, host applications, and provide secure platforms for innovation.
Transitioning from concept to execution, the ministry confirmed that construction will follow strict international benchmarks. Once operational, the centers will improve efficiency across government agencies. At the same time, they will offer new tools for private firms seeking digital solutions inside Iraq.
The Iraq data center project represents more than just technology. It reflects a national strategy to modernize public services, protect data sovereignty, and attract global partnerships. By combining local oversight with international standards, Iraq hopes to build long-term trust in its digital future.
Ultimately, officials believe the Iraq data center project will transform the country’s digital landscape and place Iraq on the regional technology map.
