Erbil derives its name from the city of Erbil, which is also its capital. It is largely populated by Kurds but has a small minority of Assyrians. Part of Iraqi Kurdistan, Erbil is a rich agricultural region and boasts some of the most ancient tourism sites in Iraq, along with beautiful mountains and waterfalls.

Education

Erbil has one university (Salahaddin University, which includes schools of law, medicine and engineering), 129 secondary schools, 12 vocational schools (commercial, industrial and technical), and 12 teacher training institutes. There are 22 libraries in Erbil.

Infrastructure

The primary road route from Kirkuk to Mosul runs through southern Erbil province. Another primary road from Kirkuk runs to Erbil City. From Erbil city, major routes run west to Mosul and northeast to Shaqlawah and Choman, and to the Hajj Umran border crossing at the Iranian border. There is also an eastern route to Sulaymaniyah.

Economic Profile

With abundant rainfall and a relatively mild climate, agriculture is a primary economic activity in Erbil. Erbil has over 300 poultry farms. Erbil produces approximately 36,000 tons of fresh chicken meat per year and a commensurately large number of eggs. Erbil also produces large crops of tomatoes, cucumbers, and melons. In addition, large commercial herds of sheep, goats and cattle are found in the province.

The citadel in Erbil city is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world, with a history that may stretch back more than 5,000 years. Additional beautiful tourist locations include: Shaqlawah, Choman, Salahadin, and Bikhal.

Provincial Investment Commission Website

http://www.kurdistaninvestment.org