Iraq’s Al-Anbar International Hotel reopens in Ramadi, signaling economic revival

IRAQ – The much-awaited Al-Anbar International Hotel has finally opened in Ramadi, Iraq, marking a major milestone after nearly seven years of reconstruction also delayed by significant security challenges.

This reopening signals that Al-Anbar province has emerged stronger from years of conflict and destruction.

Bashar al-Aamij, head of the Al-Anbar Investment Commission, affirmed that rebuilding the hotel “proves that Al-Anbar has returned stronger after rising from the rubble.”

Ramadi, the capital of Iraq’s largest governorate, saw the original hotel destroyed during intense internal hostilities nearly a decade ago.

Spanning 4,500 square meters, the hotel boasts 14 floors with over 200 rooms and suites, including royal and presidential accommodations.

It features conference and wedding halls, luxury restaurants overlooking the Euphrates River, fitness centers, and private chalets for weddings and corporate events.

The city of Ramadi suffered extensively from ISIS attacks before Iraqi forces recaptured it. The hotel’s reopening represents renewed optimism in economic recovery and tourism development in the region.

Complementing this revival, August 2025 also saw the launch of Sahra Resort in Al-Baghdadi, within Al-Anbar province.

The resort offers an innovative mix of desert landscapes, Bedouin heritage, and modern hospitality, making it the region’s first project blending tradition with contemporary tourism.

Both projects are expected to drive investment, create jobs, and enhance tourism infrastructure, boosting Al-Anbar’s profile as a resilient and growing economic hub.

Iraq has witnessed significant recent growth in hospitality investments, signaling renewed confidence in the country’s economic recovery.

Projects like the Al-Anbar International Hotel in Ramadi showcase the effort to rebuild key infrastructure damaged during years of conflict.

In Baghdad, global hotel chains are expanding, including France’s Louvre Hotels Group with a new Golden Tulip hotel and the soon-to-open five-star V Hotel in Al-Jadriya. Renowned brands Mövenpick, Rixos, and Rotana are also developing new properties across the country.

A landmark $1 billion investment is underway to build the Grand Museum of Iraq in Baghdad, featuring hotel, retail, and cultural components to boost heritage tourism.

Meanwhile, Saudi café chain Half Million plans to launch its first branch in Iraq, reflecting growing demand in the retail and hospitality sectors.

These developments are supported by improved infrastructure and rising domestic travel demand. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and regional diversification trends lend additional momentum, positioning Iraq as an emerging hospitality hotspot. These investments create jobs, stimulate tourism, and are integral to Iraq’s strategy to diversify beyond oil revenue.

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