Iran plans to double tourism with innovative growth strategies

The Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, Reza Salehi Amiri, has reported that 6.38 million tourists visited the country last year, with a projected annual growth of 10 per cent in visitor numbers.

The minister revealed that Iran is capable of accommodating up to 15 million tourists annually, positioning the nation as a growing hub for global tourism. This is reported by Mehr News Agency, a partner of TV BRICS.

Currently, Iran boasts 48,000 registered cultural and historical sites, including 28 tangible and 27 intangible heritage items. An additional 48 sites are pending inclusion in UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

According to the World Bank, Iran ranks seventh globally in tourism appeal, while national data places it third. The country’s tourism assets include not only its rich cultural and historical sites but also marine tourism opportunities, with new initiatives underway to develop its coastal regions.

The minister also highlighted the growth in accommodation facilities, with 1,430 operational hotels and approximately 100 new establishments opening yearly. Ecotourism is flourishing, supported by 4,000 eco-lodges catering to alternative travel experiences.

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