Developing environmental and heritage tourism and ensuring its sustainability in Kirkuk Governorate

Abstract

Tourism has emerged as a notable sector for export, yielding substantial profits by leveraging natural resources and tangible assets such as various historical and religious landmarks. The primary objective is to rejuvenate the tourism sector and utilize it as a means to achieve all-encompassing development. Studies have pinpointed factors that can draw tourists to the region, encompassing ecological sites like the Dibs forests and the Dibs and Shirin dams, alongside the existence of Islamic religious destinations such as the Imam Zain al-Abidin Shrine, the Imam Qasim Shrine, and the Shrine of Prophet Daniel (peace be upon them). Local inhabitants are also considered in this analysis. Moreover, within Kirkuk Governorate lie significant Christian landmarks such as the Virgin Mary Church, Saint Joseph's Church, and the Red Church, in addition to cultural gems like Kirkuk Castle, Kirkuk Citadel, Daquq Minaret, Kirkuk Caesarea, and the Abbasid Bridge. Hence, the imperative task at hand involves enhancing the region's infrastructure by formulating strategic developmental initiatives aimed at promoting environmental, historical, and religious tourism, with the goal of preserving tourism assets and fostering job prospects for the local populace.