Iran is considering a proposal to ease border restrictions and offer visa-free entry for passport holders from 60 countries. The deputy tourism minister took this decision on Wednesday. The proposal aims to increase international arrivals and revive the tourism sector.
Ali-Asghar Shalbafian said the tourism ministry’s proposal was submitted to the President’s office after Ayatollah Ebrahim Raisi visited the ministry. The proposal is currently under review by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant authorities.
This proposal suggests individually waiving visa requirements for 60 countries, especially Muslim and neighboring countries. Shalbafian said the proposal was based on the principle of reciprocity and mutual interest.
Tourism is one of the main sources of income for Iran, which has been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic and US sanctions. The country has a rich history and cultural heritage, as well as diverse natural attractions. It boasts 24 UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the ancient ruins of Persepolis and the stunning mosques of Isfahan.
The tourism ministry announced earlier this month that Iran recorded about 850,000 foreign tourist arrivals during the first two months of the year, which shows over 50 percent growth year on year. The statistics by the Bureau of the World Tourism Organization also show that foreign tourist arrivals in 2022 grew 315 percent from a year earlier.
Shalbafian expressed hope that the proposal would help attract more tourists to Iran and improve its image in the world. He also said that the normalization of ties with Saudi Arabia might have a positive impact on tourism.
Iran is exploring a proposal to offer visa-free entry for passport holders from 60 countries, which would be a major step to ease border restrictions and boost tourism. The proposal is under consideration by the authorities and aims to increase international arrivals and revive the tourism sector. Iran has a lot to offer to tourists, from its ancient history and culture to its diverse landscapes and hospitality.