According to Iran’s tourism ministry announcements, the government has called on all 31 provinces to organize national tourism events and exhibitions during the second half of the current Iranian calendar year. Minister Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri stated that the nationwide push aims to promote domestic travel, support industry stakeholders, and strengthen national vitality following operational setbacks caused by the conflict.
Iran Tourism Ministry Mandates 31-Province Exhibition Rollout
Minister Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri announced the nationwide initiative on a Saturday during a high-level meeting in Tehran. The gathering included Deputy for Tourism Anoushirvan Mohseni-Bandpei alongside provincial directors general and regional tourism officials. Salehi-Amiri emphasized that tourism holds a vital role in maintaining household lifestyles and driving domestic engagement. Under the newly adopted plans, every province must host specialized tourism exhibitions during the latter half of the calendar year to project a positive message about sector development.
Infrastructure Investments and Multi-Million-Rial Project Openings
These developments encompass 33 hotels, 98 eco-tourism homes, 26 meal halls, and 12 tourist complexes, backed by a total investment of 130 trillion rials (approximately $130 million). Officials project these additions will generate 2,830 new jobs, supporting regional economies and aligning with broader state goals for sustainable development and economic diversification.
Targeting 400 Events for Nationwide Tourism Week
Spearheaded by the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, the events are coordinated at both national and provincial levels. The program is designed to showcase diverse cultural heritage sites, archaeological locations, and natural landscapes, while fostering collaboration among local communities, tourism businesses, and government bodies.
Did You Know?
According to ministry briefings, Iran’s strategic international tourism focus centers on three specific sectors: religious tourism, medical tourism, and integrated regional tourism.
Regional Focus: Pilgrimage, Marine, and Desert Destinations
Regional development strategies highlight distinct geographical advantages across the country’s provinces. According to ministry assessments, Khorasan Razavi and its central city of Mashhad remain primary hubs for pilgrimage tourism. Meanwhile, Bushehr along the Persian Gulf is slated for marine tourism development, focusing on beach resorts and water sports, and Semnan is expanding desert trekking alongside its traditional Razavi pilgrim routes. Additionally, Ilam and Qazvin are receiving targeted focus for their rich history, local handicrafts, and proximity to the capital.
Strategic Policy Adjustments and Travel Card Implementation
To address structural challenges facing the industry, Deputy Tourism Minister Anoushirvan Mohseni-Bandpei announced that the ministry is preparing a comprehensive tourism document under a supportive policy approach. Practical measures include the introduction of a new “travel card” system and updated payment platforms designed to streamline consumer transactions. These digital and financial updates complement ongoing efforts to secure economic institution backing for long-term sector growth.
Pro Tip for Travelers
When planning visits to regional hubs like Qazvin or Semnan, travelers should monitor provincial exhibition schedules released by directorates to align trips with regional cultural showcases.
Regional Aviation and Security Disruptions
These domestic promotion efforts unfold against a backdrop of severe international disruptions. According to regional reports, Iran’s broader tourism sector has faced steep setbacks following joint military strikes launched by the United States and the Israeli regime against Iran on February 28, 2026. The ensuing conflict triggered widespread flight cancellations and airspace closures across West Asia, heavily impacting international arrivals and regional aviation connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of Iran’s new tourism exhibition mandate?
According to Minister Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri, all 31 provinces must organize national tourism events and exhibitions during the second half of the calendar year to promote domestic travel, support industry growth, and showcase sector vitality.
How much financial investment is backing the new tourism projects?
How many events are planned for Tourism Week?
What are the ministry’s core international tourism priorities?
According to Deputy Minister Anoushirvan Mohseni-Bandpei, the ministry is prioritizing religious tourism, medical tourism, and integrated regional tourism.
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