Iraq’s Sulaymaniyah Takes Flight as Paragliding Fuels a New Era of Adventure Tourism

Published on December 17, 2025

There are times in traveling when a place actually gets you to fly, and Iraq’s Sulaymaniyah is more and more giving that impression. Paragliding, among the city’s most attractive adventure tourism experiences, is set against a landscape comprising of hard mountains, wide valleys and cool highland air, thus attracting not only daredevils but also photographers and nature admirers from all over the area and even beyond.

According to information highlighted by the official tourism authorities on the Sulaymaniyah tourism platform, adventure tourism is fast becoming a cornerstone of the governorate’s travel strategy. Paragliding, in particular, has added a fresh dimension to Sulaymaniyah’s appeal, blending adrenaline with panoramic views that reveal the region’s dramatic natural beauty from an entirely new perspective.

A Growing Adventure Attraction

Captain Khalid Al-Najjar, a certified Take-off and Safety Officer, explained in indirect comments that paragliding activity in Sulaymaniyah Governorate has witnessed a steady rise in interest, transforming the sport into one of the area’s most prominent adventure offerings. He noted that this growth has positioned paragliding as a significant contributor to the local tourism economy, complementing the city’s cultural and historical attractions.

Flights are organised across several approved locations in and around Sulaymaniyah, selected based on advance bookings and prevailing weather conditions. Multiple take-off altitudes are available, approximately 450 metres, 850 metres and 1,676 metres allowing operators to tailor experiences to varying comfort levels and preferences, from first-time flyers to seasoned adventurers.

Safety, Standards and the Flight Experience

The average flight lasts between 15 and 25 minutes, with wind conditions playing a decisive role in determining the exact duration. Natural airflow remains the primary factor guiding each journey, reinforcing the importance of careful planning and professional oversight.

The maximum permitted weight for participants is set at 125 kilograms, in line with internationally recognised safety standards. Captain Al-Najjar has indirectly emphasised that all flights are supervised by professional instructors holding globally recognised licences issued by APPL and accredited by the World Paragliding Federation. He has also cautioned that operating without certified crews poses serious risks, underlining the importance of strict compliance with safety protocols.

For travellers seeking an added rush, some flights may incorporate light acrobatic movements, performed purely for entertainment and always within clearly defined safety limits. These manoeuvres, carried out under direct professional supervision, offer an extra thrill without compromising participant wellbeing.

Training the Next Generation of Pilots

Beyond tandem tourist flights, Sulaymaniyah has positioned itself as a regional hub for paragliding training. Structured programmes are available for both men and women aspiring to become certified pilots. These courses combine theoretical instruction with practical flight training, culminating in the issuance of an individual paragliding licence upon successful completion.

This focus on education and certification not only enhances safety standards but also supports sustainable adventure tourism by developing local expertise and long-term capacity within the sector.

More Than Just Paragliding

While paragliding may be the headline act, Sulaymaniyah’s adventure tourism portfolio extends far beyond the skies. According to tourism officials, visitors can also enjoy mountain hiking and trekking trails, camping experiences in cooler highland areas, rock climbing, and seasonal off-road excursions through scenic rural landscapes.

The city itself offers a softer contrast to outdoor adventure, with vibrant cafés, literary landmarks, bustling bazaars and museums that reflect Sulaymaniyah’s reputation as a cultural and intellectual centre. For travellers, this blend of adrenaline and authenticity creates a balanced destination where mornings can be spent soaring above valleys and evenings enjoyed over traditional Kurdish cuisine.

A Destination on the Rise

From a travel perspective, Sulaymaniyah’s success lies in how naturally adventure experiences integrate with the region’s landscape and identity. Paragliding does not feel like an add-on; it feels like an invitation to see the land as locals do, expansive, resilient and inspiring.

As adventure tourism continues to gain momentum globally, Sulaymaniyah stands out as a destination that combines excitement with professionalism and respect for international standards. The steady rise of paragliding reflects a broader transformation, positioning the governorate as a must-visit location for travellers seeking both thrill and substance.

Ultimately, what remains most is not merely the thrill of flying but also the silent amazement accompanying it, the feeling that Sulaymaniyah is a city learning through flying to tell its narrative in new and exciting ways, slowly but surely.