Iran’s health tourism sector ready to flourish with vast opportunities
Iran’s health tourism sector stands at a crossroads, brimming with untapped potential that could transform it into a leading destination for medical travelers. Despite generating less than $500 million annually, the Iranian government has set an ambitious target of reaching $6 billion in revenue.
With neighboring countries rapidly developing their own medical tourism industries, the time is ripe for Iran to leverage its strengths.
Yasser Nejadi, Secretary of the National Development and Empowerment Working Group of the Ministry of Health, recently shared insights on the country’s health tourism landscape, Tasnim News Agency reported.
He noted that while Iran boasts advanced medical systems, skilled surgeons, modern equipment, and affordable treatment options, it struggles to capitalize fully on these advantages.
“As the dollar value rises, our medical services become cheaper compared to regional competitors. However, only 20% of health tourists are motivated by lower costs; over 68% prioritize the quality of services,” he explained.
Iran’s reputation in the health tourism arena is built on its professional medical workforce and state-of-the-art facilities. Nevertheless, the number of international patients arriving in Iran remains low, with estimates suggesting fewer than 500,000 visitors each year.
“Most foreign patients come based on personal connections rather than organized efforts by tourism authorities,” Nejadi added, pointing to traditional ties with countries like Iraq and Pakistan as key sources of health tourists.
The need for a systematic approach to attract health tourists cannot be overstated.
Nejadi expressed concern that many potential patients bypass Iran in favor of less familiar countries that have begun to establish themselves in the health tourism market.
“Unfortunately, many opportunities have been lost as emerging competitors gain traction,” he lamented.
Despite its myriad advantages, Iran’s health tourism industry grapples with many challenges, particularly the absence of a cohesive and transparent system for guiding medical tourists. Currently, many patients rely on informal channels, often leading to confusion regarding treatment costs and potential fraud.
Nejadi pointed out the dire consequences of this lack of regulation, stating, “This not only breeds financial misconduct but also undermines tourists’ trust in Iran’s medical system.”
To remedy these issues, experts advocate for the creation of an online platform that showcases reputable medical facilities, simplifying the process for health tourists.
Establishing clear financial practices and enhancing marketing strategies are also critical to rebuilding Iran’s image as a premier health tourism destination.
“We must seriously commit to marketing and attracting health tourists. Streamlining the activities of intermediaries in this sector can also help clarify financial transactions,” Nejadi concluded.