Tourism in Kurdistan - A Promising Growing Industry

Talking about tourism in Kurdistan may sound a bit strange to those who don’t know much about the region apart from the fact that the autonomous Kurdistan forms the northern part of Iraq. However, over the past 10 years, this small part of Iraq has seen significant growth in many sectors of its economy, while it has preserved peace and security for its citizens as the region is highly protected by its own Peshmerga army. Kurdistan has left the bad days behind, has embraced the differences of its people, and looks forward to a promising future.

 

At the same time the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) is making constant efforts to attract more and more investors in the oil and gas, construction, and industry sectors. Since 2006, investments in the region have gone up to $35 billion, there is an 8% annual growth, unemployment is lower than 6%, and the GDP per capita is getting close to $5,000.

As the economy grows, more and more investors, businessmen and professionals visit the region every year. Thousands of highly trained expatriates with their families have come to Kurdistan to work in the numerous construction projects in the three Kurdish governorates.  Hundreds of luxury hotels were built and a large number of upscale shopping malls along with dining, amusement, and entertainment facilities have appeared in the big cities.

Why Visit Kurdistan

Little by little, visitors from the rest of Iraq and from neighboring countries started coming to Kurdistan attracted mainly by its modern big cities where they could spend a weekend or a few days relaxing by a pool, visiting a luxury spa, a beauty salon, or a gym, doing their shopping and getting around the city markets.
Ancient sites, such as the Erbil Citadel, beautiful parks, such as the Sami Abdul Rahman Park or the Aqua Tarin Water Park, a large number of annual exhibitions such as the Erbil Auto Show or the DBX Sulaymaniyah Expo keep attracting visitors to the Region.
 

And it’s not only the big cities that attract visitors. There are so many beautiful towns and villages that are famous for the smile and the hospitality of their people, and so many places of amazing beauty ideal for picnics, hiking, or just having a picnic with friends or family. Tourism in Kurdistan keeps rising as people get to know of all its beauties, the friendliness of its people and the fun it offers to its visitors.

 

Kurdistan in Summer

Iraq, just like the rest of the Middle East is very hot in the summer. Temperatures can go up to 45C or 48C, but if you are looking for a cool place to spend your summer holidays, you won’t find anything better than the green Kurdish mountains where temperatures can be even 10 degrees lower than city centers. The most famous picturesque summer resorts are the villages of Shaqlawa, Jundyan, and Bekhal which have become popular summer destinations for visitors to Kurdistan. The mountains, valleys, rivers, and rapids along with waterfalls attract nature and picnic lovers, hikers, rafters and keen photographers.

 

Kurdistan in Winter

Even though most visitors who come for a short or long holiday in the Kurdistan Region prefer either the spring when temperatures are not too high or the summer because of the cooler days and nights, winter tourism in Kurdistan is also on the rise. 

 

Middle East is not the place for winter sports and while going to Ski Dubai could be a great option, nothing compares to the real thing that Korek Mountain offers. T he scenery of the snow covered mountain is amazing and gives you the impression of being somewhere in the Alps. This winter resort is absolutely suitable for families as there are several cozy cottages they can rent and spend a long weekend skiing, having fun on a zipline hang-glider, or letting the children play in the snow while they are enjoying a hot cup of coffee at the resort’s café.

How to Come to Kurdistan
Most visitors to the region come from the rest of Iraq or other nearby countries by road, but a large number of people come to Kurdistan via the Erbil and the Sulaymaniyah International Airports. From about 400,000 people in 2007, the number of visitors to the region has gone up to more than 2.5 million people per year, which makes tourism in Kurdistan really profitable for the thousands of people who work in the industry.

 

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A Secure Environment for Arab and International Companies

While in the not-so-distant past the Kurdistan region in the northern part of Iraq was plagued with violence and cruel attacks from the dictatorial Saddam regime, modern Iraqi Kurdistan is quite different. In fact, today’s Iraqi Kurdistan is the fastest growing region in the country. Especially Erbil, the capital of the autonomous Kurdish region, has already attracted billions of dollars in foreign and Arab investments, while at the same time all kinds of Erbil business ventures have created thousands of new job opportunities for the local people.  Additionally, this atmosphere of growth and prosperity has attracted large numbers of international high-class professionals who have taken residence in the city – most of them accompanied by their families.

Together with the influx of expatriates, large numbers of Diaspora Kurds have returned to their homeland attracted by the security of the place and the increasing financial activity of Erbil business and trade opportunities.

Four Main Reasons for Success

The fact that Erbil has proved to be a successful emerging market is due to the following four main reasons:
 

•    The determination of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to preserve the security of the region with the help of the local Peshmerga army who have successfully managed to keep violence away from their region.  While the southern parts of Iraq are often beset with violent incidents and social upheaval, Erbil sets an example of living a life of peace, respect for differences, and financial prosperity.

•    The application of favorable investment legislation by the KRG in order to promote the growth of Erbil business and the goals of the private sector in general. At the same time, the Kurdistan Regional Government tries hard to fight all forms of corruption in the public sector and make all public services work in the most efficient way so that they can assist and contribute to the financial growth of the region.

•    The oil and gas industry of northern Kurdistan has proved a significant factor in the economic growth and the attraction of more investments in the region. A large number of international oil companies have been attracted to the area as the Kurds are now able to benefit from their rich oil resources. Since oil and gas can now be exported to several European markets through Turkey, the financial benefits for the Kurdistan region are really significant.

•    Erbil International Airport has also contributed to the financial growth of the city by promoting both tourism and trade. With an annual passenger growth rate of 26% and about 1.2 million passengers in 2013, as well as a 40% increase in cargo tonnage, the airport plays a vital role in the economic development of the Kurdistan capital. What is more, a large percentage of travelers to and from Iraq choose Erbil International Airport as their entry or departure point especially because of its high security levels. This fact has dramatically increased the number and the income of entertainment, retail, and accommodation businesses in the city.

More than 1000 Erbil Business listings
Because of its location on the crossroads between the East and the West, the fertility of its land, and its cultural development, Erbil has always been one of the most important trade centers in Mesopotamia. Today, with a population of about 1.5 million people, the city is a promising business landmark in the Kurdish region. If you have a look at one of Erbil’s business directories, you will see that the city features more than 1000 listings in different sectors.

Of course, on the top of the list there are the 45 Oil and Gas international companies which are the ones with the largest turnover. The construction sector comes next with nearly 100 companies followed by the entertainment sector with 90 companies. High on the list is the hospitality trade as there are more than 70 hotels or motels in the city and about an equal number of restaurants and cafés.

In the past couple of years, more and more car, travel and tourism, telecommunications as well as computer and software companies open their offices in the city. Last but not least, there are about 400 retail businesses in the city covering sectors such as clothing, furniture and home decoration companies.
 

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Erbil Citadel

 

Erbil Citadel - The historical value of Erbil Citadel to archaeologists and historical city centre of erbil in Iraq. 

Erbil 2014 – The Arab Tourism Capital

The Arab Council of Tourism has voted Erbil as the Arab Tourism Capital for the year 2014. Erbil 2014 will continue to be the pole of attraction for tourists and visitors to the Kurdistan region, as it has been for the past 7 years.

 

People who come here may not be able to say that Erbil is the most beautiful city in Iraq, but it is definitely the most interesting and the one that offers an exciting trip to the distant past and into the history of the region. People also decide to visit Erbil because here they can find the most business opportunities, several exhibitions in a large number of sectors, as well as high-end shopping centers, entertainment and accommodation facilities.

Erbil 2014 in Numbers

•    Erbil is the capital and the largest city in the autonomous Kurdistan region with a population of 1.5 million people and it is the 4th largest city in Iraq

•    According to a New York Times list, Erbil is the 34th most preferred tourist destination, while the National Geographic Magazine had Erbil in its list of the 20 best trips in 2011

•    Erbil International Airport is expected to handle more than 2 million passengers and 40,000 tonnes of cargo in 2014

•    There are 21 different airlines that currently fly to Erbil Airport
•    There are 5875 registered companies in the lists of the Erbil Chamber of Commerce
•    The city has 8 large shopping malls with thousands of customers per year
•    Erbil International Fairground hosts at least 10 international shows per year
•    According to the Iraqi Industrial Development Authority, the Erbil labor force is 865,000 people

Erbil 2014 Entertainment for Visitors

Most visitors to the city who come to Erbil from neighboring countries or from the rest of Iraq look for a chance to spend a short holiday having fun, visiting places of natural beauty and doing their shopping in one of the luxury shopping malls of the city.

Apart from the ancient Citadel and the old part of the city which is the first and most important sight for anyone who comes to Erbil, visitors can try:

•    The Family Mall – the largest of Erbil’s Malls which opened its doors in 2010 and as its name suggests is ideal for families. Adults will find anything they want in the 100 retail stores, while children will love the large indoor ice-skating rink, going to see a movie in one of the 14 cinemas, or visiting the Digital City for the newest computer games

•    Sami Abdul Rahman Park where you can go for a picnic with your children. It is the largest and most beautiful park in Kurdistan with several playgrounds, cafés, and two beautiful lakes with paddle boats that will help you chill out on a hot day

•    Aqua Tarin Water Park is the place your kids will enjoy more than anything else. That does not mean that the place is not ideal for adults who want to have fun on one of its many waterslides.  On Thursdays and Fridays there are events, competitions, and performances by famous artists. Drink your coffee or enjoy a delicious meal in the green gardens of the park and have fun with your family.

Erbil 2014 International Fairground Exhibitions

For those who come to Erbil for business and want to find out about the latest developments in technology, household equipment and decoration, cars and commercial vehicles, building and construction, and a lot more, the Erbil tradeshow is not only a valuable source of information, but also a great chance to meet businessmen, inventors, international traders, prospective customers and distributors.

Divan Hotel Erbil State-of-the-art Accommodation and Dining Facilities

Convenient Central Location

Divan Hotel Erbil is the perfect choice for visitors to the city who would like a place ideal for business meetings and conferences combined with first class elegant accommodation, fine restaurants and top personalized service. Divan Hotel is located in the fashionable Gulan Street – a 10-minute drive away from Erbil International Airport and an equal distance from the centre of Erbil, which offers the visitors the chance to explore the Ancient Citadel – one of the oldest settlements in the world.

Even though the hotel is close enough to all important government and business venues and large shopping malls, it provides the peace and quiet most guests wish for, as the largest and most beautiful of Erbil’s parks, the Sami Abdul-Rahman Park is on the opposite side of Gulan Street. Apart from its incredible views, the park offers the opportunity for a leisurely stroll along its winding paths and refreshing moments near one of its beautiful artificial lakes.

Divan Hotel Amenities

With its towering 24 stories and its innovative architectural style, Divan Hotel Erbil is probably the most striking building in the Kurdish capital. At first sight, the hotel looks more like a royal palace than a hotel. All of its 227 guest rooms offer the luxury of a five-star hotel accommodation coupled with the elegance of its fanciful décor and all the facilities of modern technology. On the outside, the building is surrounded with spectacular pools with colorful fountains and large fragrant gardens.

To cover all personal needs, Divan hotel offers several different kinds of accommodation:

Deluxe Guest Rooms are all spacious, 44 m2 or larger, with king size or twin beds, a pillow menu to choose from, 37” flat screen LCD television with a wide range of movie and satellite channels, Internet access, mini bar, charging facilities for mobile devices as well as an iPod docking station on the bedside table.  All guest rooms provide luxury bath and shower facilities, hairdryer, and telephone in the bathroom. There are also cooling, heating and ventilation systems in every room.

Business Suites are even more spacious, 62 m2, and in addition to all Deluxe Guest Room facilities, they provide a separate living room and toilet for your visitors along with a full bath and a separate shower.

Executive Suites are 88 m2 and they are ideal for professionals who would like a longer, more independent stay. They offer a fully equipped kitchenette and dining area, a spacious living room to entertain friends and business associates, a separate toilet for guests and luxury bath products. Staying in an executive suite makes you feel at home away from home.

Penthouse Residences and Presidential Suites are large apartments, from 250 to 300 m2, with spectacular views to the surrounding parks and the whole city of Erbil and they are like small palaces. They offer royal-standard accommodation with spa and Jacuzzi facilities, Bulgari bath products, separate dressing area, and separate guest toilet.

Bars and Restaurants in Divan Hotel Erbil

All guests and visitors can dine in style in the hotel’s tastefully decorated bars and restaurants. In the open kitchen of the Seasons Restaurant you will be able to taste the finest Middle Eastern and international dishes. You can start with a full, healthy breakfast and return for a light lunch in the afternoon or a hearty dinner early in the evening.

The Saray Café and Patisserie with its plush sofas and stylish furniture can provide you with a relaxing atmosphere for a drink with a friend or a colleague even after midnight. Here you can enjoy a variety of coffees and delicious pastries.

Next to the Saray Café, the Chopin Bar is equally relaxing, but with a more cheerful jazzy feel. Enjoy your drink or a light dinner while listening to live music.

For an unforgettable evening, visit the Qi Sushi Bar and Grill on the 21st floor of the hotel and enjoy its gourmet dishes together with some stunning views of the whole city. This restaurant offers the best sushi dishes in the country and attracts sushi lovers not only from Erbil but from nearby cities as well.

Divan Hotel Erbil can be the first choice of people who visit the city and want an unforgettable hotel experience.

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A Move towards Positivity - Erbil Companies

Erbil, an ancient historic city located in the Kurdistan region in Iraq, is emerging as one the prime commercial hubs in the Middle East region. While the rest of the world was experiencing the global recession, Erbil underwent an amazing growth of eight percent over the last couple years. Financial institutional gurus around the globe have given the city positive reviews and have highlighted the fact that the city is experiencing growth rates as fast as that of early Dubai and is likely to surpass those. Therefore, if you are looking for investing your money in a rewarding project, you might want to consider Erbil. For further Erbil Companies and updates, browse through erbilia.com, the online magazine that is a complete guide to all your investment decisions in this newly progressing city.

The growth in the Erbil region is not restricted to any one specific area. It has seen a boom in almost all of its functional industries ranging from energy, power and oil sector to construction and housing industry. Moreover, over the last few years there has been an influx of world famous designer brands and retail stores in the city. With such positive options opening up, the city is not only undergoing an economic growth surge but is also acquiring a better peaceful and stable environment. The Erbil Companies regarding its stability is one of the major reasons of why international investors have shown so much interest in its projects.

On the more international scene, the International Erbil Airport has been voted as the best emerging market airports with less than five million passengers. The successful completion of this giant venture along with the acceptance of international recognition and praise is one step forward for the local Erbil economy. It indicates the safety, security and efficiency of the city as a region to invest more in. Moreover, this success stories will open many ways for other such networks to open up and operate in the city which will further insure better and more job opportunities for the citizens in the future. Considering the timescale in which this airport was built, operating 21 airlines through its terminal is a major milestone achieved by the authorities.

Along with an optimistic feedback in industry sector, the general living conditions and city life in Erbil has also witnessed a sharp improvement. With many restaurants opening up, recreational settings being built and entertainment areas being created, the living standards of an average Iraqi is this area has seen a significant change. Moreover, the city has also become more to open to sport activities, night-life activities and other such events. Recently, The Erbil International Marathon was organized to welcome hundreds of runners and to promote a positive energy and optimism among the citizens.

If you are further interested in knowing about the multiple events happening in Erbil or you want to get an idea about the daily life of an average Iraqi, sign into erbilia.com online magazine for other Erbil Companies.

Updates about any city are best known by the various kinds of news that tell us about the latest events that occurred, are currently occurring and about to occur in the city. Any information about this capital of Kurdistan can be seen covered in the Erbil Companies of the Online Magazine.

Why Should You Choose Erbil Companies Projects?

Powered by its abundant supply of natural oil and gas reserves, Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan region in Iraq, is witnessing one the highest economic growths of the century. According to some estimates, the recent boom phase in the area has surpassed the growth rate of Dubai in the late 80's. With innovative housing complexes, comfortable luxury resorts, upscale multi-ethnic cuisine restaurants and its environment friendly atmosphere, this city has shown far more potential for the investment opportunities than any other city in the Middle East.  If you want to look into detailed accounts of the economic life and financial happenings of this new commercial hub, keep yourself updated through erbilia.com online magazine that features articles relating all the sectors of development in Erbil.

Erbil Companies opportunities are multiple from oil sector to construction industry. Recently, Kurdistan experienced an eight percent economic growth last year fuelled by the exploitation of its 45 billion barrels oil reserves exploration. The direct impact of such huge boom can be seen in terms of emerging land marks, exquisite hotels and resorts, and introduction of luxury brands into the city. Erbil, right now is enjoying a major chunk of GDP growth and investing in projects like business towers and major hotels to introduce the luxury living concept in the region.

The positive outlook for Erbil Companies opportunities has send out an optimistic streak for a stable and peaceful region. The Kurd Regional Government is now shifting its focus towards the further development of the area by reviving the security situation and supporting any growth projects being introduced in the market. Moreover, with its emerging economic importance, seven universities and two new airports have been proposed to be constructed between the cities of Erbil and Sulamaniyah. Such a huge investment not only forecasts better future prospects but will also lead to increase in the economic activity of the area.

Moreover, in order to diversify the economy and promote the tourism sector, the government is making increasing efforts to secure the ancient city landmarks. With a more focus on tourism the government is also supporting new Erbil Companies scene with more flexible investment policies. Over a couple of years, around seven shopping malls featuring major designer brand wear such as Armani and Rolex are being constructed in the city hub. Other than that, an increased trend towards promoting various cuisines is also apparent by the fact that a large number of foreign restaurants are found operating in Erbil's main markets.

Furthermore, if you want additional information regarding the social or economic life of Erbil city, Erbil Companies you should follow the erbilia.com, an online magazine that is the complete and unique guide to all business sectors in Erbil, Kurdistan region. You can find anything you are looking for and provides you with full access to "what's on and what's in" in Erbil. So, set out to explore the ancient culture in a modernistic way and make a wise investment to secure your future.

Erbil Companies is one of the finest ways to cheer the handsome amount that can be obtained in return for the money invested in the development or maintenance projects of this city. For information about the latest investment projects visit Erbilia the official online magazine.