In a significant step toward international recognition of the Kurdistan Region’s cultural and natural wealth, three Kurdish villages have been officially nominated for the United Nations Tourism Organization’s (UN Tourism) prestigious “Best Tourism Villages” program.
The Iraqi Tourism Board recently announced a total of seven nominations for the 2026 initiative, with the Kurdistan Region’s Biyara (Halabja), Hirur (Duhok), and Rawanduz (Erbil) taking center stage. This nomination reflects a growing movement to showcase the Middle East’s hidden rural gems to the global travel community.
A Recognition of Rural Excellence
The “Best Tourism Villages” initiative honors destinations that preserve rural values, landscapes, and cultural diversity while promoting sustainable tourism practices. According to tourism officials, the evaluation process is rigorous. Experts from UN Tourism will assess the candidates based on:
- Sustainability: Commitment to nature conservation and “green” tourism.
- Infrastructure: The quality of local tourism services and accessibility.
- Social Cohesion: How well the local community is integrated into and benefits from tourism development.
- Heritage: The preservation of the unique historical and architectural character of the villages.
Formal dossiers for these sites are currently being finalized for submission, with the final global selections expected to be announced in early 2027.
Spotlight on the Nominees
The selection of these three specific locations highlights the geographic and cultural diversity of the Kurdistan Region:
- Biyara (Halabja): Famed for its lush orchards, spiritual history, and traditional stone architecture.
- Hirur (Duhok): A gateway to the rugged beauty of the northern mountains, offering untapped potential for eco-tourism.
- Rawanduz (Erbil): Home to breathtaking canyons and historic transit routes, already a favorite for domestic travelers.
Beyond Oil: A Strategic Vision for the Future
For the Kurdistani diaspora and those watching the Region’s economic evolution, these nominations represent more than just a travel accolade. They are a core component of the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) “Visit Kurdistan” strategy—a multi-billion-dollar roadmap designed to transition the economy away from its structural dependency on oil.
The KRG has reportedly allocated over $13 billion toward tourism infrastructure and development. This includes the implementation of approximately 80 major projects and the granting of over 130 investment licenses in Erbil alone. The overarching goal is ambitious: to attract 20 million visitors annually by 2035, creating thousands of jobs and fostering a sustainable “green economy.”
The Kurdistan Tourism Board, alongside the newly established Kurdistan Tourism Council, is working to modernize the sector through improved road networks, water infrastructure (such as new dams), and digital promotion.
Minister of Municipalities and Tourism, Sasan Awni, emphasized that these efforts serve as a bridge, uniting local capabilities to build a resilient future. By integrating modern technology with ancient heritage, the Region aims to invite the world to experience Kurdish hospitality without compromising the authenticity of its rural life.
As these villages prepare for the international spotlight, the message to the global community is clear: the Kurdistan Region is open, sustainable, and ready to share its ancient stories with the world.