Private sector plans $5.6m Lake Urmia tourism investment
Iran’s West Azerbaijan province is planning a 15 trillion-rial ($5.6 million) private-sector investment to develop tourism infrastructure along the shores of Lake Urmia, northwestern Iran.
The investment aim to boost tourism, create jobs and strengthen the regional economy while protecting the fragile ecosystem, IRNA reported on Saturday.
Lake Urmia, one of Iran’s most important inland bodies of water, lies in the country’s northwest between West Azerbaijan and East Azerbaijan provinces.
Provincial Governor Reza Rahmani announced the plan on Saturday during a meeting with the director of the Lake Urmia Ports and Maritime Organization and a private investor.
“The proposed investment would fund the development of tourism facilities and services around the lake,” he said.
Plans discussed at the meeting include building a standard-compliant pier, introducing safe and advanced vessels, providing maritime services and expanding recreational and tourism facilities.
Rahmani said supporting investment opportunities was among the province’s priorities, citing West Azerbaijan’s tourism potential.
“Developing the sector could improve local livelihoods and create employment opportunities for residents,” he added.
He also stressed that tourism projects along the lake’s shores must comply with environmental requirements, given the ecological importance of the area.
According to the governor, the project will be supported by Iran’s Department of Environment and Ports and Maritime Organization, with all financial resources provided by the private sector.
The Urmia Lake has faced a prolonged decline in water levels in recent years, triggering environmental concerns and highlighting the challenges of balancing economic development with the protection of its vulnerable ecosystem.