Kurdistan Region prepares to welcome over 200,000 tourists for New Year holidays

ERBIL — The Kurdistan Region’s tourism authorities have announced preparations to host over 200,000 tourists during the upcoming New Year holiday season, with plans set in motion to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for visitors.

“We began our preparations at the start of this month through our general directorates to ensure we can provide the best possible experience for tourists visiting the Kurdistan Region during the New Year holidays,” Ibrahim Abdulmajid, spokesperson for the Kurdistan Tourism Board, told 964media.

He explained that preparations are being carried out on two levels to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for tourists during the New Year holidays. On the public sector level, efforts are focused on enhancing collaboration between tourism authorities, district administrations, local governments, governorates, and security forces. This coordination aims to streamline logistics, ensure safety, and address any challenges that might arise during the peak tourism season.

In the private sector, partnerships have been strengthened with hotels, restaurants, and tourism companies.

The Kurdistan Region of Iraq offers a variety of winter resorts that attract tourists seeking snow-covered landscapes and recreational activities. Notably, Korek Mountain Resort & Spa, located on Mount Korek near Rawanduz in Erbil governorate, stands out as a premier destination. Accessible via a 4-kilometer cable car ride, the resort provides amenities such as skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, earning it the nickname “Switzerland of the Middle East.”

“Several specialized committees have been formed to monitor tourism activities, prevent exploitation of visitors, and guarantee the availability of essential services,” Abdulmajid added. “Additionally, maps, guides, and information about tourist destinations will be provided in key areas.”

Authorities expect over 200,000 visitors to travel to the region during the one-week New Year holiday period.

Yesterday, Faisal Sadiq, Director of Soran Tourism in Erbil, told 964media that “most of the available accommodations designated for New Year visitors are already booked, and there’s no space left.”