Tourism attracted $7.68 billion of the more than $22 billion invested across the Kurdistan Region during the past seven years, according to figures released by the Kurdistan Region Investment Board.
The board published the data in a statement titled “The Numbers Speak for Themselves.” It said tourism has become one of the Region’s main engines of investment, employment and economic growth during the Ninth Cabinet’s tenure.
Official records show that approved tourism projects received nearly one-third of total investment during the period. The funding supported hotels, resorts, recreational facilities and other tourism infrastructure across the Kurdistan Region.
The Investment Board said the sector no longer plays a secondary role in the economy. Instead, tourism has become a central part of the government’s strategy to diversify income, attract local and foreign investors and reduce dependence on traditional sectors.
The board added that tourism projects continue to create business opportunities and strengthen the labor market. They also support related industries, including transport, construction, hospitality, retail and food services.
The latest figures follow remarks by Sasan Awni, the Kurdistan Region’s Minister of Municipalities and Tourism, at the Investment Board’s third anniversary ceremony.
Awni said the Ninth Cabinet had completed more than 80 strategic tourism projects. He also reported that the Kurdistan Region now has over 3,000 tourism facilities and destinations.
According to the minister, the sector has created more than 20,000 jobs. Local workers hold about 80% of those positions.
Officials say these results demonstrate tourism’s growing contribution to economic development. The government plans to continue expanding infrastructure, improving services and promoting the Kurdistan Region as a competitive destination for visitors and investors.
They believe sustained investment can further increase visitor numbers, support communities, create stable employment and strengthen the Region’s long-term economic resilience and international profile.
