Nasiriyah woman builds tourism business in sector long dominated by men

NASIRIYAH — Duha Abbas Ibrahim says she has carved out success in Nasiriyah’s tourism and travel market, a sector she describes as long dominated by men, building a client base that now spans multiple governorates.

“The challenges in society are not an obstacle. Success depends on skill, smart work, the ability to compete and provide distinguished services,” Ibrahim told 964media.

Ibrahim graduated in 2005 and worked in computer technology, communications and media before entering the tourism sector in 2011 as an employee. A turning point came when she was entrusted with managing a tourism company during the director’s absence despite limited experience at the time. “I succeeded in managing the work, and that gave me greater confidence to continue in this field,” she said. After completing the required three years of experience, she obtained managing director status and established her own company.

Her first success came through handling Iranian visa services in the early stages of her work. She now offers domestic and international trip organization, airline and hotel bookings, airport reception, visas, residency arrangements, study opportunities and medical travel services outside Iraq.

Ibrahim said the idea for the project came from her passion for travel and a desire to help women experience tourism with confidence. “My beginnings were not easy, but I managed to overcome the challenges with the support of my family,” she said, describing family as the foundation of any individual’s success.