Introduction and Background

Dohuk governorate is known as mountain resort destination. It has ancient archaeological sites during all four seasons Dohuk has beautiful views which made it to be one of the best tourism sector of Kurdistan. The city is the point of joint between three parts of Kurdistan (Syria- Turkey- Iraq) therefore it has a strategic location (‘About Duhok Governorate’, 2014). This governorate is considered as one of the most significant and important governorates especially in historical and geographical sides. According to (Shingaly, 2013) because of some points like (the rapid pace of urbanization, moving from other cities to Duhok and the increasing migration from rural to urban areas) economic and social problems of population are increased. It needs commercial projects within the city with a clear plan scheme. The random distribution for commercial uses was due to the lack of a clear plan. Several issues rose from changing the Duhok master plan of land use from residential use to commercial. This affected traffic congestions change of the urban pattern and townscape, less contract of shopping and malls. This essay will address strategic action plan plans for developing the economy of the city of Dohuk with adequate developmental programs for the city. Local economic development makes it easy for Counterpart staff and partners to engage in the process of local economic development planning. This will help stakeholder to find common issues and develop a strategy that will fit key market opportunities. Also to identify quick-win projects to generate jobs opportunities, increase local competitiveness and attract more stakeholders to buy-in (‘Economic Development – Economic Development – Government of Yukon’, 2014).according to (‘Ministry of Planning, Kurdistan Region’, 2014) There are several factors that has affect or prevents the economic development.

The first factor is lack of information and transparency. Dohuk’s directorates and main offices must dedicate itself to serve people in a clear way. To achieve this, the ministries should follow data and regulations. It will help local business owners and international investors to make informed decisions that will make economy grow if they have international standards of transparency and accountability. The second issue is inefficient banking system. Any country or city that wants to be successful in business and gain economic development needs a modern banking system. The banking system must be connected to world class financial institutions and build trustful relation with investors and business men/women. The third factor is educational system, which is a very important factor that needs to be taken seriously. Educational system must meet the demands of market economy. It needs to produce the skills and abilities that could help develop economy. Some certain sectors should be given more attention; in addition of English and Arabic language there should be trainings within these sectors to gain more responsive to the market and local development needs. The last factor is not having a good infrastructure. KRG should upgrade basic infrastructure and invest in it as they are one of the important factors to help economic development. The purpose of this economic development plan is to give a better quality of life to the citizens of Dohuk city and attract more people to invest in new businesses. Creating more jobs and developing existing businesses.