The effect of public awareness of ecotourism on attracting international tourists (Case study: Kurdistan-Iraq climate)

Abstract

Abstract:
The aim of this study is to examine the effect of public awareness of ecotourism on attracting international tourists in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Given the unique environmental and cultural capacities of this region, public awareness of ecotourism can play a significant role in the development of sustainable tourism. The research method was descriptive-analytical and conducted through a survey approach. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire whose validity was confirmed by experts and reliability verified using Cronbach’s alpha. The statistical population included local residents, tourism activists, and environmental experts in the Kurdistan Region, selected by random sampling. The collected data were analysed using SPSS software. The results showed a significant positive relationship between the level of public awareness of the benefits of ecotourism and the attraction of international tourists. Furthermore, targeted education and advertising in the field of ecotourism can increase foreign tourists' willingness to visit this region. Based on the findings, it is recommended that tourism policymakers in the Kurdistan Region develop precise plans to raise public awareness of ecotourism and introduce the natural capacities of the area.

Key words: public awareness, ecotourism, international tourists, Kurdistan Climate-Iraq, environment