Tourist services in Abu Ghraib district

Abstract

    Iraq is a rich country in both natural and human resources. The tourism sector, as a service activity, brings economic, social, environmental, cultural, and religious profits to everyone. Tourism is an inexhaustible resource, and the revitalization of tourism depends on the provision and development of services at tourist sites. Relying merely on oil, a single-commodity natural resource that serves as the backbone of Iraq’s economy and the main source of funding is not sufficient. This is especially true since oil prices are subject to fluctuations based on political conditions. The diversity of tourism resources in the district has attracted scientific missions to explore and excavate its treasures. Most tourists visit heritage, archaeological, and religious sites, which are considered the most frequented recreational areas in the district. Though, deprived planning in the tourism sector has led to weak service provision. The current services no longer meet the needs of tourism and do not reflect the district's civilization and heritage. These sites have become mere landmarks defined by location, without urban or geographical development. This study aims at analyzing the geographical locations with tourism potential to provide a comprehensive overview of tourism services in the district. The research also seeks to offer information that can contribute to decision-making in managing tourism resources, especially given Iraq's single-commodity economy. The findings show that tourism can bring in foreign currency and generate financial resources, particularly since the district lacks adequate lodging, hotels, and restaurants that are essential to stimulate tourism. However, a portion of these revenues is not invested in improving tourism services. Tourist sites lack green-space parks due to weak planning in providing services. Additionally, there is a lack of public transportation systems that would facilitate tourists' access to sites, and there has been neglect in the restoration of heritage, archaeological, administrative, and religious buildings, including unannounced shrines of pious imams. Therefore, it is essential to plan for the establishment and provision of tourism services to help stimulate tourism activity. This includes setting up diverse services such as traditional markets and other attractions to draw tourists. The aim is to make tourism the second pillar of revenue in the district, especially since it enjoys wide agricultural lands surrounding the tourist sites, giving them a clean environment that appeals to tourists seeking destinations away from noise and pollution, and providing job opportunities. Tourists also have a preference of destinations with modern services, including transportation and shopping facilities. It is important to raise public awareness through media and tourist guidance, and to develop tourism workers by implementing training programs for them.