INSIDE : Essentials | Where to Stay | Food & Drink | Health & Wellness | Where to Shop | Luxury Brands | Events The Guide KURDISTAN An eye on the people, places, culture, and lifestyle in the Kurdistan Region of .

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2 The Guide: Kurdistan The Guide

KURDISTANAn eye on the people, places, and lifestyle in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Social & Cultural Opportunities in the Kurdistan Region

Many know the Kurdistan Region as a developing player rich in both nat- ural resources and economic opportunities. Indeed, with over $30 billion Contents invested in the growth of the Region and significant oil and gas deposits fueling speculation of massive revenue, the Kurdistan Region has be- 4-6 Essentials come a recognized and strategic location for international development. All the basic information you need to know Kurdistan is also a growing cultural entity, and is home to numerous destinations worthy of international attention. In , the capital city of 7-9 A Tradition of Inclusion the Kurdistan Region, there are abundant luxury hotel facilities, refined City Profiles: Erbil & Slemani & Duhok dining options, and lavish shopping opportunities. The Slemani gover- norate has long been heralded as the cultural capital of Kurdistan, and 10-12 Where to stay boasts numerous museums, universities, and cultural festivals. The rolling Experience the distinguished hospitality mountains and flowing rivers of the Duhok governorate make it an ideal destination for tourists seeking opportunities off the beaten path. 14-16 Food & Drink With that in mind, we present “The Guide”, a comprehensive review Upscale venues offering the finest internation- of the social and cultural lifestyle opportunities available in this new al cuisine, as well as the best bars and night investment destination. The Guide seeks to help readers understand spots and experience the options available in the Kurdistan Region, including the hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers of this unique business 17 Health & Wellness location. Indulge yourself in luxurious treatment “The Guide” can serve as a useful tool for those individuals seeking to enjoy the finest the Kurdistan Region has to offer. Indeed, we are confi- 18-20 Luxury brands dent that the hotels, restaurants, health and wellness centers, and shop- The most stylish and elegant brands ping facilities discussed herein will enable even the most experienced traveler to find high-quality, innovative options for almost any need. 21 Where to Shop From five-star hotels to diamond watches to gourmet dining, the Notable shopping malls in Erbil Region has numerous options for even the most refined palate. With that in mind, “The Guide” provides an insightful view into the luxury lifestyle 22-23 Events in this rapidly developing marketplace. Explore business & cultural opportunities Divan Hospitality Rising in Erbil

Enjoy our exclusive accommodation approach for more than half a century, while you discover the unique business opportunities Erbil offers.

We would like to thank to the KRG’s General Board of Tourism for its support and photographs.

“The Guide: Kurdistan” is a supplement of the Kurdistan Review magazine. Published annually, The Guide: Kurdistan’s target audience is prominent business community visiting Kurdistan. It details the premium hotels, restaurants, health clubs, luxury brands, and shopping centers of the Region. Gulan Street, Erbil, Irak T: +964 66 210 50 00 F: +964 66 210 50 01 [email protected] 5 www.divan.com Essentials Essentials

Geography Weather ATM & Credit Card The Kurdistan Region, The summer months are Modern banking is only in its infancy in the Kurdistan Region. As such, ATMs are used only infrequently and can be which borders to dry and hot. Temperatures difficult to find. Additionally, most of the hotels get commission from credit card payments. Some of the larger hotels and the west, to the often reach as high as shopping malls house ATMs, as do the more recently constructed banks. north, and to the east, 48C during the summer. comprises a total area of The winter months are 40,643 square kms (the generally cold and rainy, KRG-administered area with average temperatures Transportation only). Kurdistan features ranging from 5C to 13C. plentiful rivers and prominent mountain ranges with an average height of Population 2,400 meters. 5.3 Million

Demographics Currency The Kurdistan Region is Iraqi Dinar (IQD) Religion composed of an ethnically 1 USD= 1,165 IQD The majority of are diverse populace that 1 EUR = 1,580 IQD Sunni Muslims. There are includes Kurds, Arabs, 1 GBP = 1,887 IQD also multiple Christian Assyrians, Chaldeans, sects practicing within the Turkmen, and Armenians. Time Zone Region, including Syrian The population of the GMT +3 Catholic, Syrian Orthodox, Kurdistan Region is skewed Assyrian Church of the young, with 36% aged 0-14 Business Hours East, Armenian, and years and only 4% aged Sunday – Wednesday Taxis Upon Arrival Airports Banks Catholic Chaldean. over 63. The median age is 09:00 - 16:00 Taxis in the Kurdistan There are two main Erbil Int’l Airport BankMed Yazidism, which is unique just over 20. Thursday Region do not have meters. avenues for exiting the Slemani Int’l Airport Bakhtiari, Erbil to Kurdistan, has tens of 09:00 - 14:00 Instead, the passenger and Erbil International Airport. Duhok Int’l Airport (Under T: +964 (0) 66 2579777 thousands of followers Language the driver must agree on The longer (but cheaper) Construction) and is predominantly Kurdish, , Turkmen English Language News a price prior to departing route involves new arrivals BBAC Bank practiced in Duhok. RUDAW is the main for a destination. Taxis are taking an airport bus to a 60 Meter Street, Erbil Public Holidays English-language media readily available on most separate terminal, where Air Arabia, Air Berlin, T: +964 (0) 66 2574300 Religious Holidays: 1 January - New Year’s Day group. major roads in all the cities passengers may then Air Olympic, Al-Naser, (The dates for the 6 January - Army Day of the Kurdistan Region. bargain with taxi drivers Aseman Airlines, AtlasJet, Byblos Bank holidays listed below 5 March - Uprising Day Electrical Appliances A ride to or from almost for a fee between 5,000- Austrian Airlines, Azmar 60 Meter Street, Erbil are based on the Muslim 11 March - Liberation of Voltage is 220v. anywhere in the cities nor- 10,000 IQD. The more Airlines, Caspian Airlines, T: +964 (0) 66 2560017 calendar, and therefore Erbil City Both UK three-pronged mally costs somewhere direct (and expensive) Cyprus Airways, Egypt change each year) 14 March - Mustafa and European two-pronged between 5-10,000 IQD. A route is to book a private Airlines, , Etihad İş Bank Barzani’s Birthday plugs are in use. private taxi between any taxi for approximately Airways, FlyDubai, Gulan Street, Erbil Mouloud (Prophet 21-23rd March - Nawroz of the Region’s three major 25,000-30,000 IQD. “Hello FlyGeorgia, Georgia T: +964 (0) 66 2100546 Mohammad’s Birthday) Kurdish New Year Country Code cities will cost between 120- Taxi” has an agreement Airways, Germania Airlines, Eid-al-Fitr (End of 9 April - +964 150,000 IQD. There are gen- with the airport that allows Gulf Air, Hermes Airways, Kurdistan Ramadan) Liberation Day erally two types of taxis in its vehicles to access the , Lufthansa, International Bank Eid-al-Qurban 1 May - Labour Day Mobile Operators the cities. Some are painted terminal directly. Vehicles Mahan Air, Middle East Gulan Street, Erbil Muharram 14 July - Republic Day Korek, Asiacell, Zain white (private drivers) and can be booked in advance Airlines, Olympic Airlines, T: +964 (0) 66 2239149 Ashura 25 December - Christmas others are light tan in color via the company website Pegasus Airlines, Qatar Day Security (government vetted driv- or by waiting in line outside Airways, Royal Falcon North Bank No significant incidents ers). The latter are generally the main arrival/departure Airlines, Royal Jordanian, Salim Street, Slemani Traffic Flow: Right have occurred since 2007. newer and safer options. terminal. Transavia, Turkish Airlines, T: +964 (0) 7702138349 Viking Hellas, General Board of Tourism - www.kurdistantour.net Money Exchange The best digital source for detailed information about touristic places is the website of the General Board of Tourism. There are formal currency exchange centers at the airports and modern shopping facilities in Kurdistan. However, The app of the Board is also avaliable on the App Store. informal exchange booths in the traditional bazaar areas offer more favorable rates.

6 The Guide: Kurdistan 7 Essentials A Tradition of Inclusion Basic Expressions Diplomatic Missions English Sorani Kurmanji Austria: +962 (0) 6 462 4304 Hello Rozh-bash Rozh-bash Belarus: +964 (0) 750 445 0973 The Kurdistan Region has been home to an indigenous Kurdish population for thousands of years. The multi- Good morning Beyanee-bash Beyanee-bash Brazil: +964 (0) 750 446 7906 tude of cultures and civilizations that have written their history across the Kurdistan Region have resulted in Welcome! (on arrival) Be kher bi(t) Be kher hati Czech Republic: +964 (0) 66 254 7983 a population and landscape that reflects a great deal of diversity. The Kurdistan Region boasts nearly 65 offi- Goodbye Khwa-hafees Khwa-hafees Denmark: +964 (0) 66 264 8299 cially recognized tourism areas that reflect the mixture of Muslim, Christian, Jewish, and Yazidi religious tra- Thank you Supas Supas Egypt: +964 (0) 66 210 1730 ditions of its inhabitants. The sights visitors are treated to include the 8,000 year-old citadel of Erbil, a host of You’re welcome Ser chaw Ser Chaava France: +964 (0) 66 257 3583 ancient Christian churches and monasteries, as well as Lalish, the holiest city for the Region’s Yazidis (a faith How are you? Chonee? Chaawani? Germany: +964 (0) 750 790 7909 that blends elements of Sunni Islam, , and ). Natural attractions include the breath- Are you well? Bashee? Bashee? Greece: +964 (0) 770 640 8848 taking mountain views provided by the sinuous Hamilton road as it winds its way from Erbil to the Iranian I’m fine, thank you Bashem, supas Bashem, supas Iran: +964 (0) 66 222 2444 border, as well as lush valleys, mountain peaks, and plunging ravines that drive home the message that the vis- What’s your name? Naw-et cheeya? Nav-ey ta cheeya? Italy: +964 (0) 770 144 9000 itor really is in “the other Iraq.” My name is John Naw-em John-ah Nav-ey min John-ah Japan: +964 (0) 66 257 3661 Please Zahmat Nabe Bey Zahmat : +964 (0) 750 811 4442 Where is the bazaar? Bazaar le chweya? Bazaar la kidareya? Korea: +964 (0) 750 793 4501 Erbil— Where is the Hotel? Otel la chweya? Otel la kidareya? Netherlands: +964 (0) 750 198 7002 Life in Erbil began with the creation of the Yes Aa / Balay Aa / Balay Palestine: +964 (0) 750 881 5420 historic Erbil Citadel, which has been con- No Na Na Poland: +964 (0) 750 173 4346 tinuously inhabited since at least 6000 BCE. OK Bale Bale/Arey Romania: +964 (0) 66 224 6715 The Citadel, which sits atop a 30-meter high Russia: +964 (0) 750 134 8674 plateau and is designed in a circular shape, Slovakia: +964 (0) 750 445 7412 has inspired the development of the city as a Spain: +964 (0) 750 630 0503 whole, with increasingly large, concentric rings Sweden: +964 (0) 770 045 9530 expanding out from the location. The geo- Turkey: +964 (0) 66 224 6233 graphic size of Erbil has expanded dramatical- UAE: +964 (0) 66 224 6710 ly in recent years, as has the city’s population UK: +964 (0) 750 722 8178 (growing from 500,000 residents in 2004 to USA: +1 240 553 0590 2 million in 2012). This rapid development has placed a strain on Erbil’s existing infrastruc- Visa ture, particularly in regards to its road net- Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, New works and sewer systems. However, the con- Zealand, Turkey, and the EU countries are siderable development that has taken place issued free, 15-day visa stamps upon arrival within the capital over the past few years has in the Kurdistan Region. Other nationalities alleviated these issues to some extent. are required to get a valid “Iraqi” visa from their local Iraqi diplomatic office. The KRG Representations abroad do not issue Iraqi visas. Travelers wishing to remain in the Region for a period longer than 15 days are required to visit an immigration office to obtain the necessary documentation. This process involves the completion of numerous forms and a mandatory blood test. The entire process can take up to four hours to complete. Companies may expedite the visa application process by registering a new employee with Iraqi authorities and applying for all necessary permits on behalf of the individual prior to his or her arrival in Kurdistan.

Hospitals PAR Hospital Swedish Hospital Azadi Hospital International Hospital 60m St, Erbil Ainkawa, Erbil Nakhosh-Khana St., Duhok Salim St, Slemani T: +964 (0) 66 210 7001 T: +964 (0) 66 8691414 T: +964(0)627224074 T: +964 (0) 770 384 4040

8 The Guide: Kurdistan 9 A Tradition of Inclusion A Tradition of Inclusion Duhok The modern city of Duhok was established as an Ottoman Caliphate in 1887, and has historically served as a bridge to the Region’s most strategically significant neighbor: Turkey. The city, which is home to approximately 1.3 million residents, has a comprehensive master plan that will guide development through 2032; the plan itself calls for a phased approach to address current and future issues, particularly the need for urban rehabilitation and infrastructure improvement. Duhok’s proximity to the Tigris River (and the scenic mountain ranges that frame the waterway) make it ideally suited for the developing tourism Slemani industry. Nicknamed the “cultural capital” of the Kurdistan Region, the modern city of Slemani was founded in 1784. Today, it is well known for its open, relatively liberal, and tolerant society, as well as being a center for culture and learning. The city boasts a population of approximately 1.9 million inhabitants and is geographically expanding at a rapid pace. Prior to 2003, the city was contained within a 60-meter ring road. However, since then, rapid urbanization has led to residential and commercial development outside the ring. Without the benefit of a uniform development master plan, this sprawl has been somewhat irregular in its pattern. The master plan that has since been implemented is well conceived in improving functionality while supporting projected population growth. As such, Slemani currently has the capacity to accommodate the projected five-year population growth without the need for additional horizontal expansion.

10 The Guide: Kurdistan 11 Where to Stay Where to Stay Tangram Erbil Located in the southern Divan Erbil part of Erbil, the Tangram The 24-story Divan hotel hotel has emerged as a features 227 guest rooms, favored destination for parking for 200 vehicles, business travelers in the ten meeting rooms, five Kurdistan Region. Each of restaurants, four up-scale the hotel’s 118 rooms fea- boutiques, a lounge, and tures a comfortable bed, multiple bars. The hotel, a flat screen TV, a working which is perhaps the most desk, and a spacious bath- visually striking in all of room; high-speed Internet Erbil, seeks to redefine the and a lavish breakfast buf- business experience with fet are included at no addi- its well-appointed rooms, tional charge. The Tangram gourmet dining options, also offers multiple gour- and spacious meeting ar- met dining options, one eas. The Divan welcomes its of the liveliest nightspots patrons in with its resplen- in all of Erbil (360 Club), dent décor, including crystal and perhaps the most well chandeliers, brass-lined appointed gym in all of the columns, marble floors, and Kurdistan Region. elegant selection of sculp- T: +964 (0) 66 229 6900 tures, art, and antiques. For these and other efforts, the World Travel Awards named the Divan “Iraq’s Leading Business Hotel” for 2013. Copthorne Hotel T: +964 66 210 5000 Baranan The Copthorne Hotel Baranan offers the finest hotel and dining options Rotana Erbil for visitors to the city of Named “Iraq’s Leading pool and surrounding gar- Sulaimania. The facility’s Hotel” for 2013 by the dens are the place to be 78 luxury rooms and World Travel Awards, the when seeking to avoid the suites are finished with Rotana has been turning extreme temperatures of contemporary décor and heads since it first opened the Kurdistan Region, and modern luxuries, and its its doors in 2011. The facility the hotel’s dining options four stylish restaurants features 201 lavish rooms (notably Basilico, the first offer a variety of both and suites, five food and Italian restaurant in Erbil, local and international beverage outlets, a grand and Al Bustan, which offers cuisines. Perhaps most ballroom, five small meet- authentic Lebanese cuisine) notably, “Uptown” (the ing rooms, a health and are known throughout the Copthorne’s two-story wellness center, and multi- surrounding region. restaurant and lounge bar) ple luxury boutiques. In the T: +964 66 210 5555 offers lovely views of the summer season, the Rotana Sulaimania skyline and five-star, innovative cuisine that spans a number of continents. T: +964 (0) 770 6000000

12 The Guide: Kurdistan 13 Erbil Kurdistan review AD Aug 2013.pdf 1 12/10/2013 9:14:03 AM

Where to Stay

Blue Mercury The seven-story Blue Mercury, which is located on 60 Meter Street in the heart of the Erbil city cen- ter, stands as a symbol of a local, boutique hotel. Blue Mercury features 70 rooms (which includes five luxury suites), a large restaurant, a lounge area suitable for both relaxation and busi- ness, a modern gym, and a Turkish bath and sauna. The hotel is within walking distance of major govern- ment offices, modern shop- ping facilities, and historic landmarks. T: +964 (0) 66 2569777

Jouhayna Hotel Situated in a strategic lo- cation along 100 Meter Road in Erbil, the Jouhayna hotel offers the specialized service and attention to detail that only a smaller, more intimate facility can. The majority of the rooms are suites that include a bedroom, living room, din- ing space, and balcony. In addition, the hotel features Sidon (a Lebanese restau- rant), a breakfast buffet, and modern spa and gym facilities. T: +964 (0) 750 7120777 Iraq’s Leading Hotel Erbil Rotana was bestowed with the prestigious honour of being IraqÕs Leading Hotel in 2011, 2012 & 2013, consecutively by the World Travel Awards. This five star hotel offers 201 well-appointed rooms and suites, 7 fully equipped meeting & events venues, 5 restaurants that suit all tastes, a fitness club, spa and pool bar & terrace.

To book your stay at the best available rates, visit rotana.com or call us +964(0)662105555.

Gulan Street, Erbil, Kurdistan, Iraq. T: +964 (0)66 210 55 55, F: +964 (0)66 210 55 56, [email protected]

14 The Guide: Kurdistan Food & Drink Food & Drink

Chopin Bar Qi 21 Club Rotana Al Bustan meat platters, seafood en- The Chopin Bar has the rare When people think about the Divan Hotel. Featuring Guests of the Club Rotana Lebanese trees, and regional desserts. distinction of being both an the Kurdistan Region, resplendent views, intricate Lounge are treated Restaurant The Habra (minced meat excellent meeting location sushi hasn’t historical- décor, exquisite cock- to a breakfast buffet, Located within the grounds with mint leaves, onion, and a superb late night ly been one of the things tails, and mouth-watering complimentary beverages, of the Rotana hotel, Al parsley, and hot spices) destination. During the day, that most readily came menu options, “Qi 21” is afternoon tea, happy hour Bustan reflects the authen- and the Al Bustan Chicken Chopin features a variety to mind. However, that a must-visit destination. services, and evening Thomas Touma ticity of Lebanese cuisine, (charcoal grilled chicken of lighter dining selections. Gökhan S. Aykan may be changing thanks Dining service begins at canapés. Service at Club entertainment, and overall with local nuts and spices General Manager In the evening, the space General Manager to the delicious offerings 6:00pm and runs until Rotana runs from 07:00 environment. The restau- served on crusted tannour Rotana Erbil transforms into a lively jazz Divan Erbil Hotel currently being served 11:30pm, with bar service until 23:00. rant features indoor and bread) come highly rec- bar featuring live music, up at “Qi 21”, a Japanese until 12:30am. Reservations “Club Rotana is an upscale, outdoor seating areas, the ommended. Dinner service with a wide variety of the “When I first arrived in Erbil, sushi and steak restaurant recommended. private business unit that is latter of which are enclosed commences at 19:00 and finest imported beverag- I heard that we were too located on the 21st floor of Location: Divan Erbil intended for use by those by pools and gardens. The extends until 23:30, with es available for selection. focused on international parties seeking a quiet Al Bustan menu includes a lunch offered on Friday Chopin begins service menu items, particularly space to work. Patrons who variety of cold appetizers, from 12:00 to 16:00. at 11:00am and closes at Italian or Continental cui- utilize this service receive salads, hot mezzeh, grilled Location: Rotana Erbil 1:00am. sines. We decided to place breakfast, snacks, pre-din- Location: Divan Erbil greater emphasis on the ner foods, and drinks in the local market. So, we brought evening. The main attraction in supplementary Kurdish of Club Rotana is the privacy and Turkish chefs to give our of its environment. We pro- menu a more authentic feel. vide everything a business- To that end, we have tried to person could possibly need, get a better feeling for what including a private atten- these clients prefer to eat dant, newspapers, a televi- and how they like to eat. We sion, Internet, private check- have adopted a very reactive in and check-out, and small approach. We try to bring in private meeting rooms. It’s a the expertise needed to ful- novel service.” fill these requests and train our existing personnel.” Salute Uptown Sulaimania’s first specialty Italian restaurant has Uptown’s restaurant serves modern 360 Club become one of the city’s finest and best known and delicious Asian fusion, integrating 360 Club features an indoor gourmet haunts. Salute offers a modern, Japanese, Thai, and Chinese influence, bar and lounge area, as well authentic Italian menu, including homemade with dishes including sushi, dim sum, and as an outdoor terrace that pastas, pizzas, and risottos, as well as unique teriyaki. The restaurant’s outdoor terrace commands a panoramic main dishes made with freshly imported provides an excellent vista of Sulaimania, Safwan Khayat view of Erbil. The nightclub seafood, meats, and cheeses. Salute maintains and in local fashion, offers shisha as an Area General Manager offers live entertainment Doaa Amin a wide-ranging, hand selected wine list, as well after dinner pastime. Upstairs from the Millennium & Copthorne performed by a Colombian General Manager as an attached bar area. Lunch opens from restaurant, Uptown’s bar and lounge Hotels duo, as well as numer- Tangram Erbil 12:00 till 16:00, and dinner from 19:00 until is unequivocally the trendiest place ous specialty events. 360 “360 Club is the newest night- 23:30. Location: Copthorne, Sulaimania in Sulaimania to spend the evening. “Our restaurants are Club features a variety of spot in Erbil. We go by the book, Uptown is open daily from 19:00 until international in inspiration international food options, by the rules. We enforce age 01:30. Location: Copthorne, Sulaimania and utilize the highest cocktails, and premium restrictions and try to keep it quality of imported foods. I beverages. The club, which available only for couples or would say they are unique stays open late into the mixed groups. Salsa music is not among the dining options in night, is an excellent place something that exists in Erbil Sulaimania.” to unwind after a long week yet, so it was a novelty. If you of meetings. manage to get novel ideas to Location: Tangram Erbil spread, then they eventually win out; 360 seems to be a winner.”

16 The Guide: Kurdistan 17 Food & Drink Health & Wellness

IIG: What are the defining IIG: What approach does IIG: What is the ultimate Fitness Made Easy flavors of Italian cuisine? your restaurant take to traditional Italian dish and Located on Kirkuk Road in Technogym equipment (in- VD: The defining flavors of Italian cuisine? why? Erbil, the Tangram Hotel cluding multiple treadmills, Italian cuisine are its basic VD: Our approach is re- VD: Italian cooking is very has already established ellipticals, stationary bicy- ingredients: extra virgin olive ferred to as “The Italian vast, so there are many pop- itself as one of the premier cles, and exercise stations), oil, pasta, and cheese. Even Renaissance”: we take clas- ular dishes. In fact, almost hotels in the Kurdistan the spacious Tangram Hotel though the Italian cuisine is sic Italian cuisine and incor- every city and town in Italy Region. The Tangram Hotel Fitness Center also includes Italian Cuisine— international, these products porate modern approaches has its own specialty. So, Fitness Center is perhaps modern changing rooms Vincenzo Deturri, head prevail in each area with to create a unique blend. the end result is that, rather the most well-equipped, and a sauna room that chef at the Rotana’s different flavors and shapes. We apply this to all of our than have a single, national planned, and provisioned helps to perfectly end a “Basilico” restaurant, The use of herbs is also key, recipes, from traditional la- cuisine, there are a number facility in all of the Region, hard day’s workout. discusses his beliefs especially oregano, thyme, sagna to real Italian pizza. of local offerings. That said, let alone Erbil. Featuring Location: Tangram Erbil regarding Italian cuisine sage, rosemary, parsley, and there are certain dishes numerous pieces of and how its flavors and basil. IIG: Why do you think that are common, and have ingredients have evolved Italian cuisine is so popular? become standard for the in recent years. IIG: Which ingredients VD: Italian cuisine prides many Italian communities Zen the Spa could you not live without itself on having simple scattered across the globe; Offering relief from the Massage (a unique holistic in your kitchen and why? recipes that are prepared these include penne arra- sweltering heat of a massage combines the best VD: Every ingredient is with passion. It utilizes the biata, lasagna, and buffalo summer in the Kurdistan from east & west), Swedish an important one in the freshest possible ingre- mozzarella. Region and the stresses Massage, Shirobhyanga (a cooking process; the basics dients that are also quite of Erbil’s business deeply relaxing head, neck, are pasta, risotto, olive oil, common in appeal. All of IIG: How would you define environment, Zen the and shoulder massage), tomato, garlic, Parmesan, these elements combined modern Italian cuisine? Spa provides premier the Deluxe Reflexology and Grana Padano. No explain the popularity of the VD: Modern Italian cuisine therapeutic treatments Massage (a massage Italian herb kitchen garden cuisine. has become influenced by offered by certified spa focused on pressure points is complete without basil, Asian cuisines and cooking therapists. The facility, the in the feet that correspond parsley, oregano, black IIG: How has your Italian techniques. For example, first of its kind in Kurdistan, to different parts of the peppers, and rosemary. cuisine been perceived here jellifying agents like agar is located at the Rotana body), and the Sport All other fresh ingredients in Erbil? (which have been used in Hotel and features five Massage (deep pressure or that give the Italian cuisine VD: For the local population, Asian cuisine for a long massage rooms, as well as neuromuscular therapy are its special aroma are the it reflects a new culture that time) have recently begun dedicated sauna and steam used to work out spasms vegetables, seafood, cream, they may not necessari- to be utilized in Italian cook- rooms. Patrons can choose and chronic pain within the fresh mozzarella, and other ly be familiar with. Those ing. In addition, standard from a variety of different muscles and connective cheeses. Why? It is simply who have experience with Asian ingredients like ginger, treatments, including the tissue). because it is the Italian Italian cuisine seem to feel lemongrass, seaweed, and Zen the Spa Signature Location: Rotana Erbil Gastronomy! that our menu successfully raw fish have become in- blends traditional offerings creasingly incorporated into with new tastes, aromas, the recipes of some modern and styles. Italian dishes. Poolside Living Every day in the sum- mer from 07:30 to 22:30, guests at the Rotana Hotel are invited to take a break from their busy schedules and indulge in a bit of relax- ation courtesy of the finest swimming pool in Erbil. The facility, which is surround- ed by a lush, green garden, also offers outdoor dining options and fresh drinks at the Aquarius Pool Bar. Location: Rotana Erbil

18 The Guide: Kurdistan 19 Luxury Brands Luxury Brands

IIG: Can you give our Cornelliani, Gucci, Dolce IIG: Do you think that the Noura Jewellery readers a breakdown of & Gabbana, Ralph Lauren, current global fashion & Watches the clientele that frequent and Armani; we have more trends are starting to take The Kurdistan Region has features handcrafted, one- your store? than 80 brands for men root here in Erbil? become known internation- of-a-kind pieces of jewelry, ÖG: 60% of our clients are and women. In terms of ÖG: It’s different depending ally as an excellent place to as well as the latest edition locals, 20% are from Turkey, items, we offer everything a on the area. For example, do business. Now, however, of Vertu phones. The store, and the other 20% are person could need. Jackets, just because the color blue boutique stores and global- which is owned by Iraqi Fashion in Erbil— from or America. pants, ties, cufflinks, socks, is fashionable in ly recognized brands are ea- investor Noura Al-Souhail, Özden Güven Actually, only about shoes, bags, jewelry… doesn’t mean that it’s ger to cement the Region’s also provides repair and ad- Manager, Beymen Erbil 20% of our customers everything. fashionable here. You can growing reputation as a lux- justment services. The de- Beymen opened its first are patrons of the Divan wear lots of different colors ury-shopping destination. sign of the NJW store itself store in Erbil a year ago and Hotel. Of course, the Divan IIG: Is there a specific or patterns in Europe and One shining example of reflects Noura Al-Souhail’s has since blossomed in a attracts the highest-ranking brand that you think execu- look quite fashionable, but this paradigm shift is Noura attention to detail, with the city not typically known for executives and Beymen tives need to know about? here, you will stand out. Jewellery and Watches carpet, chairs, and the rest cutting edge fashion. caters to an exclusive ÖG: Kiton. It’s an Italian Most of our local customers (NJW), the premier stop for of the décor all designed clientele, so there is an brand from Napoli, and it’s prefer light brown or fine jewelry and watches in by the owner. A visitor to obvious connection there. the best quality you can beige clothing. They start Erbil. Located on the first NJW comes away with the find in Kurdistan… and, to wearing those colors at an floor of the Divan Hotel, feeling that each item or IIG: Turning to Beymen’s be honest, anywhere else in early age, and those colors NJW offers its customers piece for sale has its own current collection, what are the world. Most of Kiton’s become very ingrained in the world’s most presti- unique story that reflects some of the leading brands products are hand made. their fashion preferences. gious brands [Rolex, Hublot, a blend of the traditions of and items available? You can feel how good the However, we want to and Chopard], as well as the Kurdistan Region and ÖG: Beymen offers its own quality is as soon as you expose them to lots of brands more identified with the luxury of the modern line of clothing, and then put it on; it makes you feel different options. the Middle East (the Al- world. it offers top brands like good just to touch it. Kurdi collection). NJW also Location: Divan Erbil

20 The Guide: Kurdistan 21 Luxury Brands Where to Shop

two-thirds of our business important feature in this travelers who are less willing Shopping in Erbil flights are between cities not business. Our aircraft is to accept the hassles of trav- Considerable foreign Currently, three facilities (all boutiques and a relaxed Mall is home to more than served by daily scheduled registered in the most eling via scheduled airlines. investment, a growing located in Erbil) have set shopping environment. 70 stores, 15 restaurants flights. frequently utilized inter- All of these elements are population of both local themselves apart in terms Family Mall is an (which offer a range of local Another advantage is the net-based sales systems and currently present in modern and foreign residents, and a of the services and overall attractive destination and international cuisines), privacy the charter service our Commercial Department the Kurdistan Region. median income per capita environments they offer: for families and younger and a huge market. On offers: you can freely discuss can respond by telephone or Moreover, with the very rate that is approximately Majidi Mall, Family Mall, and people who wish to blend its top floors, the mall Executive Flights to the important and confiden- e-mail to any flight request recent decision of the US 20-25% higher than in the Royal Mall. their shopping and social boasts a large-scale movie Kurdistan Region— tial matters with your col- within an hour. Federal Aviation Authority rest of Iraq have all led Majidi Mall is comprised experiences. The facility theater and multiple other Turhan Güngör leagues. Whether privacy is (FAA) to lift its ban on com- to the development of a of three floors and features includes over 120 stores, entertainment and gaming Director, T Jets important to you for busi- IIG: Has there been a signif- mercial planes flying from strong consumer industry a total of 67 shops, a multiple restaurants, a options, making it an ideal An Istanbul-based execu- ness or personal reasons, icant increase in execu- the US into the Kurdistan in the Kurdistan Region. cinema, an entertainment Carrefour, and the most setting for a wide range of tive aircraft charter compa- private jets offer a discrete tive charter flights to the Region, we strongly believe In no area is this change center, a supermarket, and modern movie theater in potential shoppers. ny, T Jets, guarantees a safe travel environment. Kurdistan Region since there will be a tremendous clearer than in the wealth multiple dining options. The the Kurdistan Region. and fast flight experience to the opening of the Erbil amount of executive charter of shopping opportunities mall, which was opened in Located closer to the your preferred destination. IIG: As a luxury brand, how International Airport in traffic on par with scheduled now present in the Region. 2009, features high-end heart of the old city, Royal do you ensure you stay at 2010? services, which have grown IIG: Can you please us the top of your game? TG: We see the most poten- more that 400% in just 4 more about your service TG: In order to stay at the tial growth in the Kurdistan years. and its advantages? top, we pay great attention Region; the increasing GDP TG: The main advantages of to the quality of our service. thanks to its natural resourc- IIG: Are there any regions or Majidi Mall our service are speed, priva- From catering to greeting es makes the Kurdistan countries in which TJets is One of the largest premier safe and easy access to exist more up-scale es- cy, and comfort. When you passengers at the terminal, Region an ideal market for not presently operating or shopping and entertain- the building. Shopping tablishments like Venezia choose to utilize a private no detail is ignored. We have growth. refuses to carry passengers? ment centers in all of the highlights include brands Café (which serves Italian jet, you are able to fly to a a database for the food and The main factors in the TG: We have very good Kurdistan Region, Majidi like Brioni, Vakko, and sandwiches, pastas, and greater number of airports drink preferences of our growth of business aviation insurance coverage and as Mall has serviced the resi- Sarar, as well as globally pizzas) and Kahve Diyarı than is possible with the passengers so that when are increased spending long as our aviation safety dents and visitors of Erbil recognizable retailers like (which features tradition- standard commercial air- they fly with us again, they power, the globalization standards are met, TJets since November 2009. Adidas, Nike, Levi’s, and al Ottoman and Turkish lines. As a result, you get to will have their favorite foods of large companies, new and its highly experienced The facility is comprised United Colors of Benetton. cuisine). Perhaps most no- your final destination faster during the flight. business models for the crew can fly to any part of of three floors that fea- The third floor of Majidi tably, Majidi Mall offers the and more directly. In fact, Accessibility is another high-income segment, and the world. ture a total of 67 shops, a Mall houses the center’s most consistently reliable cinema, an entertainment dining options. Amongst ATMs in all of Erbil, a city in center, a supermarket, and fast food offerings like which finding an accessible, multiple dining options. A Fatburger, New York Fries, fully-stocked bank machine secure 2,000 vehicle ca- Wienerwald, Peppe’s Pizza, can be at times challenging. pacity parking lot provides and Chester’s Chicken

22 The Guide: Kurdistan 23 Events Events

Kurdistan-Iraq Oil and Gas Conference British Film Bringing together over 800 leaders from the public and Festival private sectors, the Kurdistan-Iraq Oil and Gas Conference is viewed by many to be the largest and most influential In 2011, in an effort to gathering of its kind in the Kurdistan Region. The 2013 forge stronger political, event brought together 45 speakers, 45 sponsors, and educational, and cultural over 850 delegates to discuss and help determine the connections between the policies and strategies that will guide the future of the oil United Kingdom and the and gas industry in the Kurdistan Region. Speakers at the Kurdistan Region, the event included KRG Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani, Iraqi British Consulate-General Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Rowsch N. Shaways, and KRG and Bankside Films Minister of Natural Resources Dr. Ashti Hawrami, as well established the “British Film as influential figures from the private sector. The four-day Festival in the Kurdistan international event is usually held in December. Region” . The festival has Erbil Real Estate Fair since become an annual Each year, the Erbil Real Estate Fair (E.R.E.F.) brings to- tradition, with thousands of gether hundreds of influential executives, developers, and visitors traveling to Erbil to investors to promote and evaluate the numerous develop- enjoy the wide selection of ment opportunities present in the real estate sector of the films on offer. The festival Kurdistan Region. The three-day international fair, which also features a series of is usually held in June, also allows for strategic network- workshops for aspiring ing opportunities and serves as a valuable tool for local, Kurdish filmmakers, regional, or international entities contemplating entry into including students from the the Kurdistan market. The E.R.E.F. regularly features hun- Cinema Department of the dreds of exhibits and displays, and draws over 10,000 visi- Fine Arts College in Erbil. tors from the Kurdistan Region and beyond.

Iraq Agro-Food 2014 Erbil Autoshow With over 300 regional and international exhibitors at the 2014 will see the capital 2013 event, Iraq Agro-Food (IAF) has become the leading city of the Kurdistan Erbil International Fair agriculture and agro-food trade exhibition in Iraq. Held in Region play host to the For the past nine years, the Erbil International Fair (EIF) has Erbil in late November, the event attracts the most influ- 5th annual Erbil Autoshow. served as the premier showcase event for the Kurdistan ential decision makers from the KRG and the Iraqi Federal The international event Region. The EIF, which is the largest general trade fair in Government, as well as industry experts and private sector stands as the premier all of Iraq, features a variety of goods and services from a executives. The IAF offers visitors the opportunity to inter- automobile, automotive, diverse range of economic sectors, including electronics, act with national and international manufacturers, suppli- commercial vehicle, and telecom, fashion, banking, energy, and construction. The ers, traders, and business leaders, and stay up to date with spare parts exhibition for annual event is generally held in late September, and draws the latest industry standards, equipment, research, and both the Kurdistan Region thousands of exhibitors and patrons from across the MENA general practices. and greater Iraq. In 2013, 85 Region. The EIF enjoys the enthusiastic support of numer- exhibitors took part in the ous trade agencies, chambers of commerce, trade unions, four-day event, which saw ministries, and international embassies. approximately 7-10,000 visitors in attendance. Erbil Building The 8th annual “Erbil Building” exhibition will take place in May 2014, and will serve as an international showcase event for construction equipment and associated materi- als. Exhibits generally demonstrate the most recent trends, developments, products, and services in the industry, in- cluding construction materials, building systems, prefabri- cated structures, and modern machinery.

24 The Guide: Kurdistan 25 be able to obtain water resources for two individual companies can try to find solu- “Currently, we are able years. As a result, we had to find our own tions for some of these issues. For example, to satisfy about 40% solution to the water issue. Until we could look at the water issue. Right now, everyone find one, we suspended construction. utilizes wells. What happens when that sup- to 50% of the demand We were able to reinitiate construction in ply runs out? What will people do? That’s for steel here in the 2012 by installing water tanks to ensure what we’re trying to deal with right now. We that our facility always has the best possible are trying to identify realistic solutions that Kurdistan Region. quality of water. The completion date of the we can use but that everyone else can also However, we have project is 2014. utilize. However, I don’t believe that these are plans to increase our individual problems; they are issues expe- IIG: Do you think the solutions for prob- rienced by many people here in Kurdistan. overall capacity.” lems such as these should come from the So, the problems require concrete, innova- private sector, the government, or a com- tive solutions that can really only be imple- bination of the two working together? mented by the government. SÖ: Of course, the private sector or

Company Focus : SB Özel Group The SB Özel Group of companies includes:

Erbil Steel Company

Manufacturing facility that consists of a power plant, steel plant, rolling mill, and oxygen station. The power plant is operated by 20 engineers and produces Home Istanbul enough electricity to power the entire manufacturing Opened in Erbil in April 2011, Home Istanbul is largest do-it- process. Erbil Steel Company yourself store in Iraq. The store has successfully introduced produces approximately 18,000 types of products, including home textiles, furniture 240,000 tons of reinforcing and appliances, garden accessories, decorative pieces, and steel annually. light fixtures.

Canada Village Gulan Park Project

Project designed to provide The complex is composed comfortable living spaces of four tower buildings and in the Kurdistan Region. a shopping facility. Two of Canada Village Homes are the towers will be office wooden and can be adapted buildings, one will be a to all types of environments residential building, and the due to their innovative fourth will be a franchise insulation properties. hotel.