AlMu'tadid builder of Baghdad from "summary" of History of the Caliphs by al-Suyūṭī

Al Mu’tadid was a Abbasid Caliph in the 9th century who made significant contributions to transforming Baghdad city into an urban center of wealth and culture that influenced the region.

During his rule, Al Mu'tadid oversaw building projects that included developing canals for irrigation and transportation which drastically improved the quality of life in Iraq.

Al Mu'tadid created laws which emphasized justice and civil liberties. He supplemented local judges with advisors from outside Baghdad to make sure decisions were impartial.

Under Mu'tadid's reign, experts in mathematics, astronomy, language, literature and other areas were invited to participate in court ceremonies, further distinguishing the Caliphate from others of its time.

One important item on the agenda of Al Mu'tadid was cultural development in art, music, calligraphy, and illumination which enabled the court to gain a reputation for innovation far beyond their borders.

As part of his progressive reforms, Al Mu'tadid encouraged independent merchants and traders to establish markets along the Tigris River leading to a vibrant trading community in Baghdad.

His efforts allowed Baghdad to become an international city renowned for its intellectual progressiveness, distinct form of governance, social welfare initiatives, intricate infrastructure and commercial success.

He also implemented religious reforms by supporting mosques and shrines such as the Sheikh Abdul Qadir Gilani shrine.

With the help of administrative reforms, he employed experts to decipher mysterious documents, bring order to policies, and extend legal protection to individuals as well as children and women previously excluded from law.

In addition, he worked to create a new system of taxation meant to relieve some of the burden from citizens, allowing them access to more goods and services.