Deputy Minister Advocates for Comprehensive Marine Tourism Development Map

TEHRAN – In a recent meeting aimed at enhancing Iran’s tourism sector, Deputy Tourism Minister Anoushirvan Mohseni-Bandpei underscored the critical need for a comprehensive map of marine tourism. This initiative comes as part of the larger maritime development policies discussed alongside the Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, the Iranian President’s Special Representative, and governors from coastal provinces.

With an impressive 5,800 kilometers of coastline and maritime connections with eleven neighboring countries, Iran is positioned to become a leading hub for marine tourism in the region, according to a report by the Mehr news agency.

During the meeting, Mohseni-Bandpei elaborated on the new strategies being implemented by the Cultural Heritage Ministry to boost coastal and marine tourism. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among various administrative bodies to achieve maritime-oriented economic policies.

Iran’s coastal regions, particularly along the Caspian Sea, Persian Gulf, and Oman Sea, offer unique potential for tourism growth. The Deputy Minister pointed out that:

• Balanced Infrastructure Development: Sustainable investment on both southern and northern coasts is vital for realizing a sea-based economy.
• Job Creation: Developing marine tourism can create sustainable employment opportunities for local communities.

Highlighting the actions taken by the Tourism Department, Mohseni-Bandpei noted that three national marine tourism meetings have been convened as part of implementing Article 83 of the Seventh Five-Year Development Plan Law. Additionally, an executive manual for the development of coastal and marine tourism has been compiled and distributed to provincial councils.

Among the key initiatives undertaken are:

• Identifying Coastal Villages: Efforts are underway to identify coastal villages for potential registration on the world heritage list.
• Launching the National Birdwatching Secretariat: This initiative aims to promote ecotourism.
• Collaboration with Iranian Ports and Maritime Organization (PMO): This partnership focuses on defining tourism routes between islands.

Mohseni-Bandpei also stressed the importance of examining successful global models in marine tourism. He referenced comparative studies indicating that marine tourism significantly contributes to economic growth within the European Union, where the sector’s value-added reached 82 billion euros in 2023. He stated, “By leveraging these experiences, Iran can enhance employment opportunities, promote green investments, and increase tourism’s contribution to GDP while also safeguarding coastal environments and biodiversity.”

However, he highlighted several challenges that currently hinder the growth of marine tourism in Iran:

• Lengthy Investment Processes: The existing investment framework is cumbersome.
• Multiplicity of Decision-Making Institutions: This results in bureaucratic delays.
• Lack of Specific Authority: There is no unified body responsible for issuing permits for seabed activities.
• Standard Docks and Vessels: The absence of these essential facilities hampers tourism development.
• Poor Coordination: A lack of synergy among administrative bodies is a significant barrier.

To address these issues, Mohseni-Bandpei advocates for an integrated approach that fosters genuine participation from the private sector. He concluded by emphasizing the urgent need to develop a comprehensive plan for marine tourism. Key components of this plan include:

• National and International Routes: Preparing well-defined routes for marine tourism.
• Joint Coastal Events: Organizing collaborative events to enhance visibility.
• Licensing Conditions: Streamlining processes for recreational vessels.
• Tourist Piers Development: Creating more access points for tourists.
• Handicraft Markets: Establishing markets in coastal areas to promote local crafts.

In summary, the development of marine tourism not only promises to boost travel and economic opportunities for coastal residents but also plays a crucial role in advancing Iran’s cultural diplomacy and strengthening regional ties.