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Iran to create 3,000 new rural green stays in two years: Minister
That vision signals a broader push to channel tourism development firmly toward “national interest,” he told representatives of the country’s tourism industry at a meeting of professional trade associations in Tehran, IRNA reported.
The project aims to stem rural depopulation, preserve cultural identity and generate new income streams.
Salehi‑Amiri outlined what he called three possible scenarios for the coming period, from “status‑quo” to “stability” to “renewed crisis”, depending on regional dynamics.
He urged tourism associations to act as the ministry’s “link to society” and its “advisory arm” in enforcing regulation, especially for lodging and hospitality services. Under the eco‑tourism drive, one rural village could host at least one officially sanctioned lodge.
He called the increasing demand for five‑star hotels a “vote of confidence” in tourism’s revival.
He also signaled efforts to streamline exit‑taxes for overseas travel and museum‑ticket levies, and to ensure that health‑tourism, cultural tours and handicrafts work in tandem.
On unauthorized lodging, the ministry prefers dialogue first. But if informal “guest houses” fail to register for licenses, authorities will resort to legal enforcement.
Salehi‑Amiri added that government policy going forward will prioritize upholding human dignity, highlighting commitments to improve access for staff with disabilities, including special accommodations in travel, workplace facilities and discounted rates at qualified hotels.
He described the eco‑tourism plan as a bridge linking village livelihoods with cultural preservation, “Keeping villagers at home is equivalent to safeguarding the culture and art of Iran.” Authorities expect the first wave of new lodges by late 2026.