Tourism in Iraqi Kurdistan: Latest Overview

Despite Iraq’s recent tumultuous past, the region known as Kurdistan is experiencing a recent surge of economic growth and relative stability that encourages further development for the region. Although there are several disputed areas of Kurdistan, such as Mosul and Kirkuk that suffer suicide bombings, severe cultural divides and oil disputes, Kurdistan has become the most peaceful and secure area in Iraq. Since Saddam Hussein was removed from power in 2003, not a single US solider has been killed in Kurdistan Regional Government controlled territory. This remarkable stability and the immense economic development in Kurdistan demonstrate the potential that Kurdistan holds for the future.

Tourism is one venue of economic growth that presents immense potential, as the region is a geographical marvel that is steeped in rich history and culture. Erbil, the functioning capital of the Kurdistan region, was chosen as the 2015 capital of Arab Tourism by the Arab Tourism Ministers Council during the 15th session of the council held October 15th-18th, 2012. The entire Kurdistan region presents a multifaceted culture with many historical marvels, and provides unique opportunities for the adventure tourism sector and the emerging business tourism sector.

Adventure Tourism in Kurdistan’s Geographical Wonders

In addition to its rich historical background, Kurdistan boasts several geographical wonders that attract mountaineers, explorers, and adventure tourists from across the globe. Kurdistan is home to Iraq’s second highest peak, Mt Halgurd, which stands at approximately 3,607 meters and is nestled in the Zargos Mountains. The Gali Ali Beg Canyon stretches 12 kilometers and is home to the Gali Ali Beg waterfall and the Bekhal waterfall. With lush valleys and breathtaking snow capped mountains, the Kurdistan region already serves as a popular destination for regional and local tourists.

The presence of joint tourism ventures, such as Kurdistan Adventures which was founded by Australian/ Kurdish companies, reflects the region’s growing reputation as ideal destination for the all types of tourists.

Kurdistan’s Historical Marvels

The region of Kurdistan in Iraq is home to numerous historical marvels that could potentially draw in thousands of foreign tourists from across the globe. According to some sources, Erbil is known as the oldest inhabited city in the world dating back more than 6,000 years. The Citadel in Erbil, marking the center of the original community of Erbil, was taken over by the Kurdish government in 2007 in order to restore the valuable heritage site. The Citadel is especially unique as it has been inhabited since its creation over 5,000 years ago.

Throughout the Kurdistan region there are several hundred-year-old monasteries and mosques and thousand year old castles, such as Salahaddin’s Fortress, from where Salahaddin, one of the most famous Kurdish figures in Arab history, fought the Crusaders. Alexander the Great defeated Darius III in the historic battle of Gaugamela only 100 kilometers from Erbil. Amadiya, a small town in northern Kurdistan, is believed to be the homeland of the “Three Wise Men” of the Christian Bible. There are also several sites throughout Kurdistan that pay homage to the recent suffering experienced by the Kurdish people under Saddam Hussein’s rule. Despite years of oppression and warfare, the Kurdistan region has preserved its unique and ancient culture and maintained its architectural marvels.

Since 2006 the Board of Investment in Kurdistan has approved over 40 licensed projects in the tourist sector. Completed projects, like the Pank Tourism Complex in Rawaduz, and numerous current or future projects like the renovation of the Citadel in Erbil and have all contributed to the growth of tourism in Kurdistan. The opening of the $400 million International Airport in Erbil has already increased the amount of tourists with an estimated 290,000 travelers during the past year alone. The attractions that Kurdistan has to offer provides incredible opportunity for Kurdistan’s tourism sector to grow as the world comes to appreciate Kurdistan as one of the most ancient icons of civilization.