Iraq Nominates Five Villages for UN's Best Tourist Villages 2026 Initiative

PUKMEDIA

Byara in Halabja.

The Iraqi General Authority for Tourism has announced the completion of nomination dossiers for five villages to represent the country in the United Nations' Best Tourist Villages 2026 initiative, which promotes sustainable rural tourism.

Ali Yassin Abdul-Ridha, Director of Public Relations and Media and spokesperson for the General Authority for Tourism, told the Iraqi News Agency (INA) that the nominated villages are Byara in Halabja, Rawanduz in Erbil, Harur in Duhok, Merki in Nineveh and Abu Subat in Dhi Qar.

He said the nominations form part of the United Nations Tourism initiative to recognise the world's leading rural tourism destinations. A specialised technical team conducted a nationwide assessment of Iraqi villages before preparing comprehensive nomination files that meet the organisation's criteria.

Abdul-Ridha said the initiative is intended to promote sustainable development and encourage responsible, environmentally friendly tourism through the expansion of ecotourism.

He stressed that Iraq's objective extends beyond securing international recognition, aiming instead to demonstrate that local communities are implementing global standards for sustainable development while preserving their natural and cultural heritage.

"The initiative seeks to protect the cultural heritage and environmental identity of these communities while promoting the principles of responsible tourism," he said.

The spokesperson confirmed that the nomination files have been submitted to the United Nations Tourism organisation and that the Authority has received confirmation of receipt.

He added that efforts will continue throughout 2027 to identify and support additional villages, while encouraging local governments to invest in rural, environmental and sustainable tourism to strengthen Iraq's tourism sector and enhance its international competitiveness.



PUKMEDIA