The role of religious festivals in promoting economic development and tourism (Al-Atishi district as a model)

Ahmed Sadiq Eidan
Supervisor: Lect. Ahmed Obaid Oreibi

Religious festivals are generally considered one of the most important cultural and spiritual events that attract tourists from all over the world and also have a vital role in promoting economic development and tourism in the countries that host them, as celebrating religious festivals is a unique experience for tourists looking for distinctive religious and spiritual experiences. In addition to what was mentioned above, the researcher explores in this research the role of religious festivals in the Al-Atishi district, which was established in the sixteenth century, located (12) kilometers north of the holy city of Karbala, with a population of (30) thousand people, in enhancing economic and tourism development, considering that it was previously and until now considered a commercial and tourist center for what it contains of significant commercial and tourist places that are frequented by tourists from everywhere, such as Khan Al-Atishi, which was built in 1774 AD and is considered one of the oldest inns in Iraq, as it was a resting place for travelers and merchants in the past, and it is now used as a meeting center for intellectuals after its restoration, as well as Tell Al-Atishi, which is a very old hill dating back to the Babylonian era, in addition to the Al-Atishi Museum, which includes many archaeological pieces and displays the entire history of the Al-Atishi district.

There are many benefits to enhancing tourism during religious festivals in (Al-Atishi district), and these benefits can be concluded as follows: –

1) Attracting tourists: Religious festivals are an attractive destination for tourists looking forward to the spiritual atmosphere and unique celebrations.
2) Interaction with the local community: Tourists can interact with the local community and learn about new rituals and traditions.
3) Local economy: Increased accommodation, shopping, and local trade improve the economy.
4) Community social development: Festivals that promote cultural understanding and understanding of experiences and knowledge between tourists and the local community.