Kurdistan Region expects over 200,000 tourists during New Year holidays

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The Kurdistan Region is expecting to welcome more than 200,000 tourists during the New Year holidays, citing enhanced preparations and an expanded range of winter tourism activities.

Ibrahim Abdulmajeed, head of media and relations at the Kurdistan Region Tourism Board, told Rudaw on Monday that this year’s preparations are more comprehensive than in previous years.

“Preparations for the arrival of tourists have been made differently and more effectively than in previous years to ensure they enjoy their holidays in the Kurdistan Region in the best possible way,” Abdulmajeed said, adding tourists will be warmly welcomed at all entry points.

Abdulmajeed noted that planning for winter tourism began well in advance, emphasizing that the Kurdistan Region is no longer limited to seasonal tourism.

“The Kurdistan Region is not only a destination for summer and spring tourism; it also offers unique winter experiences,” he said. “Last February, we organized skiing activities, and this year, similar events will be held in suitable areas such as Soran and Sulaimani.”

Expressing confidence in the Region’s readiness, Abdulmajeed said he expects tourist numbers to exceed projections.

“We anticipate that more than 200,000 tourists will visit the Kurdistan Region because our preparations are strong,” he said.

Addressing concerns about potential price increases during the holiday season, Abdulmajeed said the tourism board has established several monitoring committees to oversee markets and tourist facilities.

“Committees have been assigned to monitor markets, hotels, motels, and tourist sites, and we will not allow anyone to exploit the situation by raising prices,” he added.

An estimated 7.2 million tourists visited the Kurdistan Region in 2023, according to the tourism board data.

Over the past five years, the Kurdistan Region has implemented 80 strategic tourism projects, totaling $7.5 billion in investment, including hotels, motels, and large tourist complexes.