Iran Set to Welcome 5 Million Iraqi Tourists: Salehi-Amiri Predicts Significant Growth

Iran Set to Welcome 5 Million Iraqi Tourists: Salehi-Amiri Predicts Significant Growth

In a significant move to boost tourism between Iran and Iraq, the Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts has announced a new agreement that will enhance road travel from Basra to various Iranian cities. The implementation of this agreement is expected to increase the annual influx of Iraqi visitors from 3.5 million to a remarkable five million.

During a cabinet session, the minister shared that a group of 80 representatives from Iranian hotels and travel agencies are currently in Iraq working to facilitate this new travel route. This initiative aims to expand tourism capacity significantly between the two neighboring countries.

Key Highlights of the Agreement:

  • The agreement was proposed by the Iraqi side and is poised to be implemented shortly.
  • The minister announced plans to travel to Baghdad for the finalization and signing of memoranda of understanding.
  • Popular Iranian cities such as Mashhad, Isfahan, Shiraz, Kish, and Rasht are already attracting Iraqi tourists.
  • Iraq is set to become a focal point in Iran’s tourism policies.

The minister also provided updates on domestic cultural and tourism projects, highlighting the progress on the tomb of Shams Tabrizi. Currently, construction stands at 58% completion and is expected to finish within the next year. The tomb is scheduled to be inaugurated in September 2026, coinciding with the commemoration of Rumi and Shams. This architectural project, designed by skilled Iranian architects, aims to turn Khoy into a pilgrimage site for admirers of Rumi and Shams, similar to Konya in Turkey.

Salehi-Amiri emphasized the importance of developing tourism and cultural infrastructure, stating that it not only enhances cultural and economic exchanges between Iran and Iraq but also positions Iran as a luxurious and strategic destination for regional tourists.

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen tourism cooperation between the two nations was signed in Baghdad, attended by key figures including the head of the Iraqi Tourism Organization, members of parliament from both countries, and prominent stakeholders from the tourism industry. This pivotal agreement, which coincided with an Iranian roadshow in Baghdad, was signed by Hormatollah Rafiei, director of the Association of Iranian Travel Agencies, and Haider Amer Al-Dujaili, head of the Iraqi Travel Service Bureaus Association.

Objectives of the Memorandum:

  • Both countries aim to facilitate the annual exchange of five million tourists.
  • The private sectors are motivated to enhance tourism industry dynamics in both nations.
  • The agreement marks a shift in tourism focus from Western markets to neighboring countries.

Rafiei, who is accompanying the board of directors of the association in Baghdad, highlighted the significance of this memorandum for the private sectors of both nations. He stated, “The efforts made by the private sectors of Iran and Iraq are commendable in promoting bilateral tourism development.”

He further noted that with the Iranian tourism roadshow established in Iraq and the signing of the MOU, tourism exchanges between the two countries will become more balanced, with equal levels of tourist attraction from both sides.

According to Rafiei, the MOU’s implementation will lead to a yearly total of 10 million tourists traveling between Iran and Iraq. This was made possible through collaborative meetings between the Association of Iranian Travel Agencies and Ahmed Al-Hakak, the Iraqi Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, which resulted in the drafting and signing of the cooperation agreement.

Focus Areas of the MOU:

  1. Pilgrimage tourism: This sector is currently active and requires systematic improvements.
  2. Sightseeing tourism: Both countries are now focusing on this area for the first time.
  3. Health tourism: Iran continues to lead in this sector, offering lower-cost treatment options compared to other countries.
  4. Scientific tourism: This aims to foster academic collaborations between Iranian and Iraqi universities.

With these initiatives, Iran and Iraq are set to strengthen their tourism ties, creating a robust framework for mutual economic growth and cultural exchange. The agreement not only symbolizes a new chapter in the tourism sector for both nations but also reflects their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations through shared cultural and historical ties.

Similar Posts

  • Unraveling the Mystery: The Depletion of Iran’s Sovereign Wealth Fund

    Iran’s National Development Fund (NDF) is facing significant financial challenges, with a recent report revealing that 82% of its $161 billion revenue has been consumed since its establishment in 2011. Mismanagement has led to 88% of loans being given to government entities, including the IRGC, with only $8 billion repaid out of $132 billion disbursed. The NDF’s reserves have dropped to $26.5 billion, raising concerns about its future. Comparatively, neighboring countries hold over $3.6 trillion in sovereign wealth. Due to corruption and poor governance, the NDF’s effectiveness as a savings reserve is severely compromised, highlighting the need for urgent reform.

  • Iran’s Economy Thrives on Oil: Insights from PBO Chief

    The head of Iran’s Plan and Budget Organization (PBO) has highlighted the oil, gas, refining, and petrochemical sectors as vital to the nation’s economy. These industries significantly contribute to GDP, job creation, technological advancement, and foreign currency generation. The government aims to enhance infrastructure, attract foreign investment, and promote R&D to modernize these sectors and reduce reliance on crude oil exports. Strategic initiatives include regulatory reforms and market diversification to improve competitiveness. The PBO head’s remarks indicate a focus on fostering growth and resilience in Iran’s economy, positioning these industries as key to the country’s financial future.

  • Forough Farrokhzad’s Historic Home Set to Transform into Captivating Museum After Restoration

    The restoration of the Forough Farrokhzad Museum House is set to begin soon, as announced by Mohammad Nazem Razavi, CEO of Tehran Municipality Cultural Spaces Development Company. This project aims to honor the legacy of the renowned Iranian poet Forough Farrokhzad by transforming her former residence into a museum. The restoration, approved after collaboration with the Cultural Heritage Department, is expected to take about six months. Original furniture and works from Farrokhzad’s friends will be incorporated, enriching the exhibit. This initiative will preserve her contributions to literature and inspire future generations while celebrating her influential artistic journey.

  • Discover the Anahita Temple: Iran’s Hidden Archaeological Gem

    Anahita Temple, the second most iconic stone structure in Iran after Persepolis, embodies ancient architectural brilliance and is dedicated to the Persian goddess of water, Anahita. Constructed across several historical periods, including the Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sassanid eras, it features a unique foursquare design using dry stone construction. The temple’s intricately carved exterior and impressive water management system highlight the engineering skills of its time. Anahita Temple not only serves as a vital cultural site but also contributes to local tourism and the economy. A visit offers insights into the rich heritage of ancient Persia and its significance in Persian rituals.

  • Iran Shines as Runners-Up in the 2025 SAT Futsal Championship

    April 7, 2025, was a landmark day in sports, marked by thrilling competitions and exceptional performances across various leagues. Fans filled stadiums, creating an electric atmosphere as historic matches unfolded. Notable highlights included a gripping football rivalry, a nail-biting basketball final that ended with a last-minute victory for the underdogs, and a global marathon that raised funds for local charities. The day showcased the importance of teamwork, inspired young athletes, and highlighted community support. With extensive media coverage, the events captured the passion of fans and the spirit of competition, reinforcing sports’ role in uniting people.

  • Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions: Araqchi Declares Iran’s Right to Complete Fuel Cycle

    Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi affirmed the country’s rights as a founding signatory of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), claiming its entitlement to the complete nuclear fuel cycle. He stated that other NPT members enrich uranium without pursuing nuclear weapons, emphasizing the need for a fair attitude in ongoing U.S.-Iran negotiations. Araqchi expressed optimism about reaching a credible agreement but cautioned against maximalist rhetoric that could hinder progress. Additionally, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei announced a change in the schedule for the next round of indirect talks, originally set for May 3, 2025, in Rome.