Iraq Targets 10% Tourism GDP by 2035 as It Seeks 10 Million Visitors
Updated
Updated · Iraqi News · Aug 17
Iraq Targets 10% Tourism GDP by 2035 as It Seeks 10 Million Visitors
3 articles · Updated · Iraqi News · Aug 17
Summary
Iraq unveiled a 2035 tourism strategy aimed at lifting the sector’s share of GDP to 10% and drawing 10 million visitors a year.
1.5 million jobs are expected from the plan, which is designed to reduce Iraq’s heavy reliance on oil by expanding tourism and related services.
The strategy shifts beyond religious pilgrimage toward archaeological, cultural and ecotourism, with foreign partners including Germany’s GIZ helping develop the program.
Baghdad’s plan includes restoring historical sites, renovating and reopening venues such as the national museum, training hospitality workers, adding digital and AI tools, and reviving events like the Babylon International Festival.