Erbil has more than 200 hotels and more are being opened every day.
Iraq nominated Erbil in a competition to name Arab countries, top capitals for tourism for 2014-15. This is the first time Iraq has competed for this economically important title.
Erbil Deputy Governor Tahir Abdulla welcomed the nomination from the Iraqi Ministry of Tourism. He noted the city is working hard to win this title.
Ease of transportation, plentiful historical sites, and sufficient hotels and restaurants are factors in identifying the Arab tourism capital.
Abdulla believes Erbil International Airport and other transportation in the city may put it ahead of others in the competition. He said Erbil's ancient Citadel is an important site that may boost the city's chances. He said Erbil Citadel is making progress in being recognized as an international tourist destination.
Shanadar Cave may also support Erbi's bid. The cave is 60,000 years old and was inhabited by Neanderthal cave dwellers.
Because of Kurdistan's distinct seasons, its summer and winter resorts could be up for the title in the future.
Any country that has won the title in the past five years is ineligible for this year's competition. Erbil may have a tough time because its tourism sector is less developed than those of other Arab countries.
The lack of services and lack of experience in welcoming tourists may be other obstacles to winning, noted Abdulla. To overcome the obstacles, he said: "We will do our best to provide services for the resorts with the assistance of tourism staff and the people's education [about tourism] should be improved."
He said Erbil has more than 200 hotels and more are being opened every day.
Although the winner won't be decided for two years, Erbil needs to work hard if it wants to be a contender.
© The Kurdish Globe 2011
