ERBIL — The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has reported a significant increase in company registrations, attributed to its recent adoption of streamlined digital processes.
Official data from the Directorate of Companies Registration indicates that the total number of registered enterprises has risen to 38,273, reflecting the Region’s growing appeal as a hub for investment and economic activity.
Turkish companies lead the foreign registrations, with 1,593 businesses operating in the Region, followed by firms from Iran, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Lebanon. This trend underscores the Kurdistan Region's position as a key destination for regional and international investment.
In 2024, 2,328 new companies were registered, marking a major milestone in the Region's economic growth. The achievement is largely credited to the introduction of an electronic registration system, which has reduced the process from one week to a single day.
To further incentivize investment, the KRG has drastically reduced registration fees from 3 million dinars to 165,000 dinars. This initiative has bolstered investor confidence and attracted both local and international businesses. Since August 2018, the Kurdistan Region Investment Board has issued licenses for 863 projects, collectively valued at $51 billion as of mid-2019. Among foreign investors, UAE companies have taken the lead in capital investment, allocating $3.3 billion across three major projects, while Turkish firms contributed $1.2 billion through 15 projects.
This year, Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani represented Kurdistan at the World Economic Forum in Davos 2025. The forum provides a platform to discuss key global issues, including artificial intelligence, investment opportunities, and economic challenges. The establishment of the Kurdistan House at the forum highlights the KRG’s proactive engagement with global economic and technological trends, reaffirming its commitment to fostering a dynamic, investment-friendly environment.
The ongoing reforms and strategic international participation are expected to further enhance the Kurdistan Region’s economic profile, ensuring sustainable growth and development in the years to come.