Isfahan named Asian Capital of Urban Tourism for 2025
Isfahan Mayor Ali Ghasemzadeh (5th L) and Secretary of the Asian Mayors Forum Hamidreza Gholamzadeh (4th L), attend a ceremony announcing Isfahan as the Asian Capital of Urban Tourism for 2025, in Isfahan, Iran, May 11, 2025. IRIB
The city of Isfahan was officially designated as the Asian Capital of Urban Tourism for 2025 by the Asian Mayors Forum (AMF), in recognition of its rich cultural heritage, vibrant tourism offerings, and active engagement in international urban cooperation.
The announcement was made during a formal ceremony held on Sunday at the historic Bagh-e Zereshk mansion in Isfahan. The event was attended by a number of local officials, international guests, and members of the Asian Mayors Forum.
The city, with its deep cultural roots, stood out for its “remarkable” heritage and international engagement, IRIB reported.
Officials say the designation marks a major step forward in connecting Isfahan to a broader Asian tourism network.
Mayor Ali Ghasemzadeh highlighted the city’s historic depth. Out of 24,000 hectares, 1,600 are made up of historic fabric dating back to the Buyid, Seljuk, and Safavid periods.
He called it “a valuable core” that makes Isfahan a distinct destination for urban tourism.
Beyond its monuments, Isfahan has hosted major cultural events such as the International Children’s Film Festival and the Children’s Painting Festival. These festivals, Ghasemzadeh noted, offer “strong potential” for expanding tourism outreach across Asia.
The Asian Mayors Forum, which includes over 120 member cities, spearheaded the selection.
Secretary of the Asian Mayors Forum, Hamidreza Gholamzadeh, said Isfahan’s focus on cultural and historical initiatives tipped the scales.
“Following careful evaluations,” the city was chosen for its standout performance, he said. Other cities also earned honors: Kerman was named cultural capital, while Antalya and Tabriz received environmental titles.
Gholamzadeh praised the active cooperation between the AMF and Isfahan’s municipality over the past three years, which has led to significant progress in various fields.
Tourism adviser to the Isfahan Governor, Masoud Nikaein, said the city’s tourism model could “set a global example.” He proposed that Isfahan host the 2025 Asian Tour Operators Summit to further boost its regional leadership.
Councilman Mostafa Nabati-Nejad urged planners not to see this as a “local affair.” With its new international convention center, Isfahan is poised to handle major global events.
Kamal Heidari, who leads the 2025 tourism secretariat, called the announcement a “flagship” moment for the city and urged authorities to elevate it into one of Asia’s top international tourism showcases.