Iraq is preparing to open Nasiriyah International Airport within the next few months as part of its efforts to strengthen the country’s transport infrastructure, tourism sector, and economic growth.
The new airport in Dhi Qar province will improve connectivity across southern Iraq while supporting major development projects and attracting more visitors to the region.
Speaking to the Iraqi News Agency (INA), Dhi Qar Governor Haitham Al-Hamdani confirmed that authorities plan to inaugurate the airport in the coming months. He said the project will play a significant role in boosting tourism and economic activity throughout the province.
According to Al-Hamdani, the airport will reduce travel times for passengers and support Iraq’s ambitious Development Road Project. The initiative aims to strengthen trade routes and connect Iraq more effectively with regional and international markets.
The governor also highlighted Dhi Qar’s growing tourism potential. The province contains important archaeological and historical sites that attract visitors from Iraq and abroad. Officials expect these attractions to draw more than one million visitors annually in the future.
The plan to open Nasiriyah International Airport represents one of Iraq’s most important infrastructure developments. Therefore, government agencies continue working to complete the remaining stages of construction and operational preparations.
The Iraqi government selected China State Construction Engineering Corporation as the main contractor for the project. The company has overseen the airport’s construction and development activities.
Meanwhile, Iraq continues implementing broader plans to modernize its aviation sector. Last year, the Ministry of Transport signed an agreement with the International Finance Corporation to develop strategic plans for expanding and rehabilitating airports across the country.
The project renovates a 3,400-meter runway and a 185,000-square-meter apron. These upgrades will support larger aircraft operations and improve overall airport efficiency.
Developers are also constructing modern passenger facilities to enhance the travel experience. The project includes passenger terminals, administrative buildings, and advanced navigation infrastructure.
In addition, the development includes a dedicated VIP terminal, a cargo terminal, and a four-star hotel. These facilities aim to support tourism, business travel, and freight operations while creating new economic opportunities in the province.
Nasiriyah International Airport will initially accommodate around 750,000 passengers annually. However, authorities have already prepared a long-term expansion strategy to meet future demand.
Under a ten-year development plan, authorities will increase the airport’s capacity significantly. Once they complete all expansion phases, the facility will handle up to 2.5 million passengers per year.
Officials expect the airport to create new jobs and attract investment to southern Iraq. Furthermore, improved air connectivity could encourage additional tourism and commercial activity throughout the region.
As Iraq prepares for the airport’s opening, officials view the project as a major step toward economic diversification and infrastructure modernization. They expect the facility to strengthen Dhi Qar’s position as an important destination for tourism, trade, and investment.
