Anbar official says western desert region open to industry, tourism and farming investment

ANBAR, Iraq — The head of Rutba district in Iraq's western Anbar province said the country's western desert offers investment opportunities in agriculture, livestock, mining and energy. District Governor Imad al-Duleymi said the region's improved security, the reopening of border crossings and available water resources make it suitable for investment. Most of Iraq's western desert lies within Rutba's boundaries, covering roughly 90,000 square kilometers of plains, valleys and arid terrain. The area includes the Horan dam as well as Wadi Masad, Kar'a, Mat and Fayza dams, with additional dam projects planned under the Ministry of Water Resources. Duleymi said the desert holds minerals of industrial value, including silica, phosphate and iron ore, along with indications of gas reserves. The Sekkar field, stretching between Eskberan and Swad Air Base, is among areas listed in the Oil Ministry's future plans. Local authorities said commercial activity has risen since the al-Walid and Trebil border crossings were reopened, allowing uninterrupted electricity imports via Jordan, and that new investment applications have been submitted. They said security along the main road has been maintained.