Baghdad hosts 3rd Utnapishtim International Festival
Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The 3rd Utnapishtim International Festival for Creativity launched in Baghdad on Monday (May 26, 2025), drawing a host of prominent artistic, cultural, and political figures. This year's edition honors the esteemed Iraqi artist Mohsen Al-Ali.
The festival saw significant attendance from across the Arab world, including celebrated Kuwaiti actress Hayat Al-Fahad and Saudi actor Abdul Mohsen Al-Nimr. Returning to Baghdad after over three decades, Al-Fahad expressed her joy at the warm reception and the city's impressive urban development, hoping Iraq remains a hub for festivals.
Festival founder Farid Lafta described the event as a 'message of love and peace from Baghdad,' showcasing Iraq as a continued wellspring of art and creativity. Festival Director Hussein Al-Taie added that it embodies Baghdad's cultural identity and restores its prominence as an Arab arts capital, fostering creative dialogue.
The Utnapishtim Festival, dedicated to an Iraqi arts icon and graced by regional stars, highlights Baghdad's vibrant cultural resurgence and its role in celebrating Arab creativity.
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