Iran sees tourism as strategic gateway to peace, growth: Minister
Iran is opening its doors wider to international tourism investors, positioning the sector as a strategic engine for long-term development.
At a high-level panel during the UAE’s Annual Investment Meeting, Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Reza Salehi Amiri outlined the country’s vast and diverse offerings, from UNESCO-listed heritage sites to health tourism and ecotourism, and emphasized Iran’s readiness for broad regional and international collaboration, IRNA reported.
“Tourism is not just an economic sector,” Salehi Amiri said. “It’s a strategic tool for sustainable growth, regional dialogue, and improving the country’s global image.” He called for a new model of investment focused on smart, civilization-based, and future-oriented approaches.
With 28 World Heritage sites and thousands of nationally recognized historical and natural landmarks, Iran offers one of the most diverse tourism landscapes in the region.
The minister described the nation as a “gateway to cultural diversity,” noting strong potential in sectors such as wellness tourism, digital experiences, and heritage restoration.
He stressed that investment opportunities extend far beyond hotel construction. Iran is prioritizing areas like transport infrastructure, rural and community-based tourism, digital innovation, human resource training, and international cultural events. “We’re not only seeking capital,” he said, “we’re inviting vision.”
Iran is actively simplifying foreign investment procedures. Incentives include tax breaks, streamlined permits, and access to strategic land. The minister highlighted public-private partnership models and the integration of successful international practices.
The strategic importance of tourism is embedded in Iran’s national development agenda. Balanced destination growth, a focus on underdeveloped regions, sustainability metrics, and advanced technology integration are core elements of this vision.
Addressing the misrepresentation of Iran in Western media, Salehi Amiri said, “We’ve been victims of biased narratives. Through cultural diplomacy and tourism, we aim to showcase Iran’s true identity — a land of peace, heritage, and hospitality.”
He added, “Travelers are the new ambassadors of peace.”
Iran has seen a 40% increase in inbound tourism in 2023 and early 2024, despite ongoing sanctions. According to Salehi Amiri, this growth reflects “the enduring global appeal of Iran’s history and culture.”
On the sidelines of the conference, the Iranian minister met with Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, the UAE’s Minister of Culture.
The two discussed expanding cultural collaboration through joint exhibitions, cultural nights, and artisan showcases. “Cultural ties are a foundation for stronger political and economic engagement,” Salehi Amiri noted. The Emirati side welcomed the proposals, calling shared heritage a “valuable asset.”
The minister also emphasized Iran’s strategic partnership with China, calling it a cornerstone of the country’s eastward tourism policy.
In another news report, in an interview with Phoenix TV, he described the Silk Road as a “symbol of civilizational dialogue,” and highlighted joint cultural and media projects under a 25-year cooperation framework with Beijing.
Iran has partnered with Central Asian nations and China in reviving Silk Road routes, with Semnan joining the International Alliance of Silk Road Tourism Cities. Plans include collaborative infrastructure development, virtual tourism tools, and content co-production with Chinese broadcasters like CCTV.
“We’re entering a new phase of cultural cooperation,” Salehi Amiri said. “The Silk Road is not just a trade route. It’s a cultural bridge uniting ancient civilizations with a shared future.”