Kurdistan Tourism Expo MITEX 2025 Seeks to Put the Region on the Global Travel Map
Held under the banner of fostering regional cooperation and attracting international tourism, MITEX 2025 brought over 120 tourism companies and institutions from 20 countries to promote the Kurdistan Region as a global travel destination.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Kurdistan Regional Government Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Tuesday inaugurated the third Middle East Tourism Expo (MITEX 2025) in Erbil, bringing together over 120 tourism companies and institutions from 20 countries to promote the Kurdistan Region as a global travel destination.
Held under the banner of fostering regional cooperation and attracting international tourism, MITEX 2025 will run through Thursday, May 8, at the Erbil International Fairground. The event features key players from across the tourism and hospitality sectors, highlighting Kurdistan’s ambition to become a central hub for travelers exploring the Middle East.
Speaking to Kurdistan24, Ibrahim Abdulmajid, spokesperson for the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Tourism Board, said, “This expo creates vital opportunities for agreements and cooperation between tourism companies in Kurdistan and international counterparts. Our goal is to position Kurdistan as a global destination.”
The event is not just a commercial gathering but also serves as a platform for networking, cultural exchange, and policy dialogue, drawing in tourism professionals, investors, and government officials. Exhibitors are showcasing everything from adventure travel to luxury tourism and sustainable ecotourism offerings.
The Kurdistan Region has been steadily working to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas, with tourism emerging as a strategic sector. Home to ancient heritage sites, mountain resorts, and a rich cultural tapestry, the region has seen an uptick in domestic and international visitors in recent years—especially from the Gulf and neighboring countries.
However, challenges remain, including the need for infrastructure development, and broader international recognition. Initiatives like MITEX aim to address these gaps by inviting global stakeholders to experience what Kurdistan has to offer firsthand.
This year’s expo is particularly significant as it marks a return to large-scale tourism events post-pandemic and reflects growing confidence in the region's security and economic stability.
