Hotels report a quiet Ramadan
Erbil hotels eye Eid Al-Fitr after a subdued Newroz
ERBIL — Erbil’s hospitality sector is reporting subdued occupancy rates during this year’s Newroz celebrations, with many hotels prioritizing renovations in anticipation of the upcoming Eid Al-Fitr holiday.
The holy month of Ramadan, marked by fasting for Muslims, traditionally leads to a decline in travel within the Kurdistan Region and across Iraq.
Shkar Yasin, from the region’s Hotel and Inns Association, told 964media that fasting and religious observance among the country’s population results in significantly reduced travel and leisure activities during Ramadan.
Yasin noted that many hotels and other accommodations are currently undergoing renovations and preparations for the Eid Al-Fitr festivities, which mark the end of Ramadan. The overall trend of low occupancy reflects a seasonal shift in tourism patterns, with businesses strategically preparing for an anticipated surge in visitors during Eid.
Van Royal Hotel communications team member Ismail Ahmed confirmed the hospitality industry is primarily focused on Eid because of a quiet Ramadan. “The number of leisure travelers, especially for Newroz, has been very low.” He added that many hotels typically report minimal occupancy rates throughout Ramadan.
Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region, boasts over 480 hotels, motels, and tourist villages. These establishments typically experience a surge in visitors during holidays and special occasions. However, Ramadan’s influence appears to have shifted the focus for both travelers and the hospitality sector away from Newroz and towards the upcoming Eid Al-Fitr celebrations.
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