TEHRAN - The number of Iraqi travelers making overnight stays in official accommodations in Ilam province has seen a 60% year-on-year increase during the first six months of the year, according to the province’s tourism chief.

On Wednesday, Farzad Sharifi stated that nearly 8,072 Iraqi tourists stayed in the province’s hotels and other certified hospitality centers during this period, marking a significant rise compared to the same timeframe last year.

Additionally, Sharifi noted that 32 organized tours, including health tourism, leisure, and sightseeing trips, brought 882 Iraqi visitors to Ilam in the first half of the year. These tourists stayed between one and seven days in the province’s official accommodations.

“We witnessed the highest influx of Iraqi tourists, especially during Nowruz holidays and the summer break,” Sharifi said, highlighting seasonal picks in visitor numbers.

He also pointed to ongoing efforts to build more accommodation units and tourism complexes across the province. These developments aim to extend the tourists’ stays, create jobs, and promote economic growth in Ilam’s tourism industry.

The province’s rich cultural heritage, diverse climate, traditional clothing, recreational sites, and hospitable culture make it a growing destination for visitors. “Enhancing the quality and variety of services offered has been prioritized to encourage tourists to stay longer,” Sharifi added.

AM