Zakho prepares for summer tourism season with restoration efforts

As preparations for summer tourism kick off in Zakho, the General Directorate of Tourism is spearheading efforts to revitalize the region's tourist sites and resorts, many of which suffered significant damage during recent floods.
An aerial view of Delal Corniche in Zakho. (Photo: Kurdistan 24)
An aerial view of Delal Corniche in Zakho. (Photo: Kurdistan 24)

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - The Directorate of Zakho's Independent Administration has embarked on a comprehensive initiative to organize and restore tourist attractions, roads, and bridges in the region, gearing up to welcome visitors for the upcoming summer season.

As preparations for summer tourism kick off in Zakho, the General Directorate of Tourism is spearheading efforts to revitalize the region's tourist sites and resorts, many of which suffered significant damage during recent floods.

Chia Amin, Director General of Tourism in Zakho, outlined the scope of damage incurred by the recent floods, categorizing them into two main types: those attraction sites developed by the Kurdistan Regional Government (such as  Delal Corniche) and those resorts in the Darkare area and Batipha district that were developed by the private sector.

Amin also indicated that work has resumed repairing these tourist sites.

In addition to rehabilitating tourist destinations, the Kurdistan Regional Government has prioritized infrastructure improvements, particularly road networks in Zakho. Efforts are currently underway to repair the main road connecting the Darkare and Batifa districts, enhancing accessibility for tourists and locals alike.

Bashar Mahawiya, Director of Road and Bridge Repair and Protection in Zakho, highlighted the extensive damage inflicted on roads and bridges by recent floods, emphasizing the urgency of restoration efforts to ensure safety and connectivity in the region.

Over the past four years, the Kurdistan Regional Government has made significant investments in developing tourist infrastructure within the Zakho Independent Administration, resulting in a notable increase in tourist arrivals.

The proactive approach to enhancing tourism offerings underscores the region's commitment to fostering economic growth and promoting Zakho as a premier destination for visitors.

While restoration efforts continue and preparations for the summer tourism season progress, Zakho stands poised to showcase its natural beauty and cultural heritage to a growing influx of tourists, reaffirming its status as a vibrant and welcoming destination in the Kurdistan Region.

Zakho's emergence as a prominent tourist destination in the Kurdistan Region reflects ongoing efforts to leverage the region's natural assets and cultural heritage to stimulate economic growth and development.

The recent focus on revitalizing tourist attractions and infrastructure underscores the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for tourism and hospitality. By investing in restoration projects and infrastructure upgrades, authorities aim to enhance the visitor experience and bolster the region's appeal as a tourist destination.