Kurdistan Gears Up for Eid al-Adha Tourism Surge: Over 300,000 Visitors Expected

By Kamaran Aziz

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Kurdistan Region is preparing for a significant influx of visitors during the Eid al-Adha holiday, with the Tourism Board announcing that more than 300,000 tourists are expected to arrive in cities across the Region over the coming days.

Speaking to Kurdistan24 on Tuesday, Ibrahim Abdulmajid, spokesperson for the Kurdistan Region’s Tourism Board, confirmed that comprehensive preparations are underway to ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for visitors.

“Full preparations have been made to welcome tourists at the Kurdistan Region’s key tourist destinations during Eid al-Adha,” Abdulmajid said.

According to the spokesperson, preparations are being conducted on two fronts: public and private. “On the governmental level, the focus has been on inter-agency coordination among the Kurdistan Region’s relevant institutions, particularly border security, which will play a significant role in facilitating entry for tourists,” he noted.

In a further measure to enhance preparedness, several specialized committees have been established under the supervision of the concerned authorities. These committees have been tasked with monitoring the overall situation and responding swiftly to any developments.

To support tourists directly, four dedicated hotline numbers have been launched—one for each of the Kurdistan Region’s four provinces and four independent administrations. These emergency contact lines are designed to assist visitors in cases of need or unforeseen issues.

On the private sector front, Abdulmajid emphasized strong coordination with tourism service providers. “There is full coordination with restaurants, hotels, and all tourist service facilities, which have been instructed to remain operational throughout the days leading up to and during Eid al-Adha to ensure that visitors benefit from available services,” he stated.

Looking ahead, Abdulmajid expressed optimism regarding the scale of tourism expected during the Eid holiday. “We expect that during the 10 days surrounding the Eid al-Adha holiday, more than 300,000 tourists will travel to the cities of the Kurdistan Region,” he concluded.

Additional details from Sulaimani province further underscore the scope of this tourism surge.

Ata Anwar, head of the Association of Tourism Companies in Sulaimani, told Kurdistan24 that “ten tourist groups from central and southern Iraq have arrived in the Region for the Eid holidays, with a significant number heading to tourist destinations within Sulaimani province.”

Anwar stressed that full preparations have been made to welcome tourists, noting that in addition to domestic tourists from Iraq’s provinces, visitors from neighboring countries such as Iran and Turkey have also begun arriving in the Kurdistan Region.

According to tourism statistics from Sulaimani, over 100,000 tourists visited the province’s tourist areas during last year’s Eid al-Adha holiday alone.

Meanwhile, the district of Akre in Duhok province is also anticipating a record turnout. Known for its striking natural scenery and seven popular resorts, Akre has recently undergone significant development in preparation for the holiday season. Authorities and resort owners have worked to enhance infrastructure, expand recreational spaces, and improve visitor amenities such as seating areas, shaded spots, and water features.

“We expect a large number of tourists during the Eid holiday and have provided everything necessary to ensure a comfortable and satisfying experience,” said Pishtwan Naqem, owner of the Sipa Resort, speaking to Kurdistan24.

Agil Zebar, owner of the Pirs Resort, echoed that optimism: “We are fully prepared to welcome our guests and expect strong turnout from many provinces.”

Fahail Fahmi, media officer at the Akre Directorate of Tourism and Travel, confirmed that three specialized committees have been formed to oversee service coordination throughout the four-day Eid holiday. These include ensuring that restaurants and parks remain open, maintaining service standards, and addressing any logistical issues.

With extensive coordination across government bodies and the private sector, Akre aims to capitalize on the Eid al-Adha holiday to further cement its reputation as one of the Kurdistan Region’s top travel destinations.

The announcement underscores the Region’s growing profile as a major tourist destination, with its natural beauty, cultural richness, and improved infrastructure continuing to draw visitors from across Iraq and neighboring countries.

Updated at 12:34 PM - Added details from Sulaimani province. 

Updated at 01:24 PM - Added details from Akre District.