Urban Landscape Design for Riverfronts in Iraqi Cities a Comparative Study Between Local and Regional Legislation

Abstract

Iraq has multiple water resources, so it urgently needs legislation to develop its river bank and benefit from its water resources. The purpose of this study is to investigate the shortcomings in the lack of development of the urban landscape of riverfronts in Iraqi cities by reviewing the legislative aspect of the laws regulating them, which are supposed to improve the quality of life for its citizens and achieve better environmental, social, economic and urban exploitation. This research was carried out using a qualitative approach, by analyzing the content of legislation and guidelines for urban landscapes for waterfronts in regional countries, finding urban design principles in them, and comparing them with the current Iraqi laws through the checklist. The results show that there are shortcomings in the Iraqi legislation for riverfronts and that it does not keep pace with the changes taking place in the world. The results were used to present proposals for the development of urban landscape legislation for the riverfront in Iraqi cities, in line with their social, economic and environmental conditions.

Exploring Cultural Landscape Values in Riverfront Development: An Examination of the Shatt Al-Arab Riverfront in Basra, Iraq

“…These spaces not only mirror the social and cultural contexts of societies [1] but also serve as vital sources of reprieve from urban lifestyle pressures, offering varied opportunities that enhance the quality of life across economic, cultural, and social dimensions. The riverfront and its associated green corridor contribute significantly to water pollution mitigation, biodiversity enhancement, and climate moderation in surrounding urban areas [4][5][6].…”