How Al-Jadriya Bridge will connect Baghdad

For people traveling between Baghdad’s Al-Rusafa and Al-Karkh districts, crossing the Tigris is part of everyday life. Access to work, universities and public services depends on connections between the two banks—and how effectively those crossings link into the wider road network.

The Al-Jadriya Bridge will provide a new route across the river. Designed by Khatib & Alami (K&A) as part of the Abu Nuwas Road Expansion Project, it supports Baghdad’s efforts to improve mobility as the capital develops.

A crossing connected to the wider city

A new bridge’s contribution extends beyond the crossing itself. Its connections to surrounding streets and major roads determine how effectively it serves journeys across the city.

Al-Jadriya forms the centerpiece of a 7.7 km transport corridor connecting Abu Nuwas Road with Al-Qadisiyah Expressway and Al-Nusour Square. The scheme includes two elevated viaducts and grade-separated connections to help distribute traffic through the network.

Together, these improvements are expected to reduce peak-hour travel times by approximately 20–35%, while increasing cross-river capacity and easing pressure on existing routes.

Keeping Baghdad moving during construction

Delivering this infrastructure means working within a busy urban setting. Heavy traffic, limited space and continuous public activity along the riverfront all influence how construction progresses.

The design brings structural engineering, traffic planning and construction sequencing together. Temporary diversions and phased works help maintain traffic movement while limiting disruption to commuters and surrounding communities.

The river itself also shapes the approach. The bridge’s long-span design reduces the number of supports within the Tigris, limiting interference with water flows and navigation.

Part of a changing waterfront

The project complements the wider revitalization of the historic Abu Nuwas waterfront, including upgraded public spaces and an enhanced riverside promenade.

Its contribution therefore reaches beyond road capacity. Better access across the river, alongside improvements to the waterfront, supports connections between Baghdad’s neighborhoods and the places people use every day.

“Transport infrastructure has the greatest impact when it moves traffic efficiently while supporting the long-term development of the city it serves. The Al-Jadriya Bridge has been designed with that wider objective in mind,” said Ayman Awad, Senior Director – K&A Baghdad.

Explore the Al-Jadriya Bridge project to learn more about K&A’s engineering approach.