Iraq’s Tourism Authority, under the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities, has announced a long-term national strategy to boost the country’s tourism sector through 2035.

The plan sets an ambitious target of attracting up to 10 million tourists, coinciding with recent improvements in Iraq’s international travel classifications. Several European nations, including the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Spain, have eased their security advisories for Iraq, signaling growing confidence in the country’s stability.

Ali Yassin, Director of International Relations and spokesperson for the Tourism Authority, highlighted that while progress has been made, lingering warnings from countries such as China and the United States remain a challenge. He urged foreign governments to reassess their advisories in light of Iraq’s improving security environment.

Yassin confirmed that the UK has officially downgraded its travel warning, with other European states following suit. To further strengthen Iraq’s image, the authority has hosted cultural and diplomatic events for foreign ambassadors, including a showcase at Saray Gardens featuring performances by the Iraqi Fashion House and the Sumerians Band. These efforts aim to present Iraq as a nation of peace, heritage, and civilization.

Tourism, Yassin emphasized, is deeply tied to security, infrastructure, and international cooperation, making it a vital pillar of Iraq’s economic, cultural, and social development. In 2025, the authority organized several tourism-focused conferences, including one on tourism statistics attended by global experts, which yielded positive results.

The new strategy prioritizes the rehabilitation of tourist sites, workforce development, and the expansion of natural, heritage, and archaeological tourism. Plans also include a tourism media conference, specialized staff training, the integration of artificial intelligence technologies, and the revival of the Babylon International Festival.

The Tourism Authority reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance Iraq’s global image and strengthen its role on the regional and international tourism map.