Iran launches 268 nationwide tourism projects, creating 2,830 jobs
Iran inaugurated 268 tourism projects across the country on Wednesday, generating direct employment for 2,830 people and involving nearly $11.17 million in investment.
The nationwide initiative, timed to coincide with Tourism Week (September 27 to October 3), was led via video conference by Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Minister Reza Salehi Amiri from Tehran.
The projects encompass a broad range of facilities, including 33 hotels and hotel-apartments, 98 traditional and eco-lodges, 26 teahouses, 12 tourism complexes, and 99 other tourism units.
Salehi Amiri described the investment as “more than economic activity; it is a cultural act,” adding that each restored or newly built site contributes to showcasing Iran’s history and identity. “Every building we restore or construct adds to Iran’s beauty,” he said.
The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to clearing obstacles for ongoing projects, noting that more than 2,700 tourism initiatives are currently underway nationwide.
He highlighted the role of private investors as “the engine of tourism development” and pointed to eco-tourism as a strategic tool to prevent rural depopulation, stating, “Our slogan is one eco-lodge per village.”
Regional tourism hubs were singled out during the ceremony. Salehi Amiri praised Ilam for its rich history, hospitable population, and artisanal handicrafts. Qazvin, with its historical sites such as the Sa’d al-Saltaneh complex and proximity to Tehran, was described as having “strategic advantages” for tourism expansion.
Razavi Khorasan, home to the pilgrimage city of Mashhad, was recognized for both religious and broader tourism growth, while Bushehr and the northern provinces were highlighted for their potential in maritime and coastal tourism.
Ali-Asghar Shalbafian, head of the ministry’s Investment and Economic Affairs, said tourism has become Iran’s third-largest investment sector. During the current administration, 860 tourism projects were inaugurated, and 153 projects have surpassed 90% completion.
“Private investment is flourishing, and public engagement with tourism projects has grown more than 30%,” Shalbafian added.
He also noted that 64 hotels, 73 tourism complexes, and 36 eco-lodges have received targeted financial support, while agreements with free-trade zones are expected to further boost investment.
Salehi Amiri reiterated the administration’s commitment to tourism development. “The government stands firmly behind this sector,” he said, noting that President Maosud Pezeshkian regards tourism as one of the three top priorities for the current term.
“We are devoted to ensuring that every corner of Iran with historical or cultural significance can benefit from tourism investment,” he added.