Capital city in Baghdad Governorate, Iraq
Air quality in Baghdad
Severely polluted
The annual average PM2.5 in Baghdad was 48.5 µg/m³ in 2021, about 9.7 times the WHO guideline of 5 µg/m³. Dust storms in spring and summer, plus traffic and generator pollution, regularly push air quality into unhealthy levels.
Key facts
- PM2.5: 48.5 µg/m³ yearly average (2021). Measured at Baghdad.
- Nitrogen dioxide: 63.2 µg/m³ (2021), mostly from traffic.
- Worst months: Apr–Aug.
Quick answers
Is the air in Baghdad bad?
Severely polluted: 48.5 µg/m³ of PM2.5 on average, 9.7× the WHO guideline. It's usually worst in Apr–Aug.
When is the air worst in Baghdad?
Dust storms in spring and summer, plus traffic and generator pollution, regularly push air quality into unhealthy levels.
How does Baghdad compare with the rest of Iraq?
People in Iraq breathe 49 µg/m³ of PM2.5 on average (2023, World Bank/WHO), against 48.5 µg/m³ measured here.
More about Baghdad
Going to Baghdad solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Baghdad meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- WHO Ambient Air Quality Database
- WHO air quality guidelines (2021)
- Live air quality map (WAQI)
- Iraq e-visa portal
- UK FCDO travel advice: Iraq
Annual averages are measured values reported to the WHO; check a live map for today's air. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.