Empowering Communities: Deputy Minister Spotlights Booming Rural Tourism Growth

In recent developments, Iran’s rural tourism sector is witnessing a significant boost, aimed at empowering local communities and encouraging a reversal of migration trends back to villages. Deputy Tourism Minister Anoushirvan Mohseni Bandpei highlighted these advancements during a media meeting with the Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, held at Fajr Hall on Tuesday. The primary focus of this year’s Tourism Week is aptly captured in the slogan, ‘Empowering the Local Communities’, which underscores the importance of sustainable tourism practices.

Mohseni Bandpei emphasized that for the first time, a substantial allocation of 140 trillion rials ($140 million) has been earmarked to bolster the rural jobs and handicrafts sector. This initiative is expected to play a vital role in promoting the rural economy and fostering sustainable employment opportunities.

He stated, “The creativity of rural youth can be a driving force behind the development of tourism in villages and ultimately pave the way for a return to the trend of reverse migration.” This sentiment reflects the government’s commitment to harnessing the potential of young individuals in rural areas.

As part of the efforts to enhance Iran’s tourism profile, Mohseni Bandpei announced the registration of three villages — Soheili in Hormozgan province, Kandelous in Mazandaran, and Shafiabad in Kerman — with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). He noted that this move is crucial for showcasing Iran’s rural tourism capabilities on an international stage.

Mohseni Bandpei further elaborated on Iran’s engagement with the UNWTO, stating, “Information about the villages nominated for world registration under the ‘Iranian Model Tourism Villages’ project has been uploaded to the organization’s system.” This initiative is a strategic step towards strengthening Iran’s national tourism brand and enhancing its visibility in the global tourism market.

He remarked, “Previously there was neglect in providing information to the World Tourism Organization about the villages. This year we said, ‘Check it out, we will provide you with any information you want.’ We introduced eight villages. This year, three villages have been selected as model tourism villages, which is an achievement of the 14th Government.” The registration ceremony for these villages is scheduled to take place in China, with Iran participating online.

Continuing with the ministry’s objectives, Mohseni Bandpei stated that a primary goal is to scientifically identify and promote tourism potentials across all provinces. He mentioned that “Each province of Iran has unique cultural, natural, and historical advantages, and efforts are being made to systematically introduce and exploit these potentials.”

• Over 400 provincial events are set to occur during the Tourism Week.
• These events aim to enhance social vitality and better showcase local potentials.
• Improved economic prosperity across various regions of the country is a significant goal.

Highlighting the global emphasis on responsible tourism and environmental protection, Mohseni Bandpei stated, “This year, the World Tourism Organization has emphasized ‘protecting the planet Earth’.” In line with this, a plan to award a green label to environmentally friendly hotels has been implemented, with several hotels already achieving this recognition.

When discussing Iran’s international tourism interactions, he pointed out that Iraq is a key target for attracting foreign tourists. Ongoing negotiations with Iraqi officials aim to expand travel options for tourists from Iraq beyond pilgrimage sites to include Iran’s rich cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

In conclusion, Mohseni Bandpei stressed that tourism development transcends mere infrastructure creation; it is a cultural, social, and economic process that must engage local knowledge, public participation, and environmental stewardship. He affirmed that the Ministry of Cultural Heritage is committed to promoting sustainable, popular, and world-class tourism moving forward.

The steps being taken reflect a broader commitment to enhancing Iran’s tourism sector, with a focus on sustainability and community empowerment that benefits both local residents and the economy at large. The future of rural tourism in Iran looks promising, and the government’s initiatives are paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive tourism landscape.