ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq - More than 88,000 holidaymakers visited Erbil for New Year celebrations, Erbil governor’s office announced Saturday.

In a statement, the Erbil governor’s office said that several special committees were formed to monitor and follow up on tourist sites and provide services to the holidaymakers during the New Year holidays, noting that a total of 88,341 tourists visited the city to mark the occasion.

Over 1,000 security personnel were deployed across the Kurdish capital to ensure the safety of civilians, the office stated, noting that all plans and programs proceeded without any major “unwanted incidents.”

The authorities recorded 17 traffic accidents, one case of fire, and 86 crime cases, of which only one remains under investigation, according to the statement.

“Due to non-compliance with laws and speeding, 17 traffic incidents occurred, which unfortunately resulted in one death and nine injuries.”

Dler Mohammed, Director General of Erbil Tourism, said in late December that there was “noticeable” rise in tourist arrivals to Erbil throughout 2025 during holidays and special occasions.

Around 8 million tourists visit the Kurdistan Region annually, according to official data from the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG).

The Kurdistan Region’s tourism industry has become a booming sector in recent years. The beautiful nature and moderate temperatures during the summertime and cozy, snow-capped wintery retreats during the colder seasons have become major attractions for tourists from all over Iraq.

The KRG aims to attract 20 million tourists per year by 2030.