Emirates is appointing a new Country Manager in Iraq to support the airline’s growth within the country.

Haitham Al Battawy, a UAE National, will take on the role from 2nd October and will be stationed in Baghdad. He will oversee Emirates’ operations within the country, building revenue and expanding its commercial footprint.

“Haitham is well placed to manage our operations in Iraq, his experience with delivering strong results, in challenging markets, will undoubtedly hold him in good stead. There is an incredible opportunity for Emirates to capitalise on the country’s growth as it rebuilds its economy and I am confident that Haitham will rise to this challenge,” said Ahmed Khoory, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Gulf, Middle East and Iran.

Starting his career with Emirates in 2006 as part of the airline’s UAE National Commercial Management Programme Haitham has had held several roles within the group. Most recently he held the roles of Country Manager for Libya and interim Country Manager for Oman. Whilst stationed in Libya Haitham also assisted as a Task Force Leader for IATA.

“Iraq represents a unique and interesting challenge and I am keen to take on this new role. With the opening of our Baghdad route in November there is an opportunity to further establish Emirates as the carrier of choice for business and leisure travellers across the country. There is scope for strong growth in the market and together with my capable team I am confident we will see a strong level of success,” said Haitham.

Emirates will commence operations to Baghdad on 13th November, opening a new channel of trade between the country’s capital and the UAE. Emirates currently operates to Basra in Iraq with a four weekly service.