Iran’s tourism could be second largest industry after oil: VP
Iranian Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref declared on Saturday that tourism has the potential to become the second-most significant sector in the country, following oil.
Speaking to investors and private sector representatives in the tourism industry, Aref noted, “Tourism is one of the most effective economic sectors in our country, and we have the necessary investments and resources inherited from our ancestors.”
Aref emphasized the importance of Iran’s vast cultural heritage, stating, “We have one million historical sites in the country.”
He stressed that the cultural contribution of tourism is more significant than its economic value, asserting, “The cultural perspective is more important than the economic view of this ministry’s activities.”
During the meeting Aref explained that each sector—cultural heritage, tourism, and handicrafts—could stand alone as individual ministries. However, they are combined in one ministry due to their interconnectedness.
He highlighted that tourism has been allocated at least 20% of employment opportunities in national development plans since the third development plan.
Aref remarked on the importance of Iran’s diverse cultural heritage, stating, “No part of the country can be deemed culturally or politically superior or inferior to another.”
He shared a story of a foreign leader who expressed enthusiasm about visiting Iranian villages to experience local culture, describing it as “a significant opportunity for the country.”
While acknowledging tourism’s economic impact, Aref warned against viewing it solely through financial lenses, saying, “If we limit ourselves solely to economic aspects, it would be a great injustice to the tourism sector and our cultural heritage.”
He also addressed the issue of “Iranophobia,” stating that misconceptions about safety in Iran often dissipate once tourists arrive.
Aref highlighted that many foreign tourists return with a changed perception of Iran, serving as informal ambassadors for the country.
He urged the government to facilitate private sector involvement, emphasizing that without the participation of the public and private sectors, achieving an 8% growth target outlined in the seventh development plan would be impossible.
In discussing the tourism workforce, Aref pointed to the need for improved training for tour guides, as some foreign tourists have expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct of certain guides.
He stressed that the government’s role should focus on regulation and support rather than direct involvement.
Prior to Aref’s remarks, Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Reza Salehi Amiri highlighted the importance of infrastructure in tourism development.
He noted that private sector actors have initiated 2,700 tourism projects without government incentives, and he called for government support in creating investment opportunities.
“The private sector is a cornerstone of tourism development,” Salehi Amiri stated. He mentioned that there are currently 550 hotels under construction in Iran, requiring significant investment, and that the government aims to support projects that are 70% complete.
With Iran ranked seventh globally in tourism attractiveness, both Aref and Salehi Amiri’s comments reflect a strong commitment to enhancing the country’s tourism sector, aiming to leverage its rich cultural heritage for economic and diplomatic benefits.