Global Tourism Boost: 100 Tour Operators from 33 Countries Gather at Tehran Forum
TEHRAN – Iran is gearing up to host an exciting international tour operators forum from tomorrow until May 2. This event promises to be a remarkable gathering, with over 100 tour operators from 33 countries set to attend. According to Moslem Shojaei, the director-general for marketing and tourism development at the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, this forum represents a significant opportunity to showcase Iran as a safe and appealing travel destination.
During a press conference held on Sunday, Shojaei revealed that the forum will coincide with the 7th edition of the Iran Export Capabilities Exhibition (Iran Expo 2025). This alignment underscores the importance of tourism in promoting Iran’s image and countering any negative perceptions that might exist.
The participating countries include:
- Vietnam
- Thailand
- India
- Tajikistan
- Armenia
- Turkey
- Uganda
- Mauritius
- Bosnia
- Saudi Arabia
- Bahrain
- The Netherlands
- Kazakhstan
- Bangladesh
- Uzbekistan
- South Africa
- Pakistan
- Bulgaria
- Turkmenistan
- Oman
- Malaysia
- Slovakia
- Azerbaijan
- Iraq
- Afghanistan
- Italy
- Germany
- The United Kingdom
- Tunisia
- Kyrgyzstan
- Russia
- France
- Brunei
A B2B meeting is scheduled for Tuesday at the Parsian Esteghlal Hotel in Tehran, offering an excellent platform for networking and collaboration among international tour operators. Shojaei outlined a comprehensive program for the visiting tour operators, which includes tours of notable historical and cultural sites such as:
- Sa’dabad Palace
- National Museum of Iran
- Abbasabad Cultural and Tourism Zone
- Kish Island
Emphasizing the dual mission of promoting Iran and attracting international tourists, Shojaei highlighted the pivotal role of international events in enhancing the country’s global image. He referred to tourism as a powerful tool of public diplomacy, noting it as one of the most effective strategies for introducing Iran to the world.
In addition, he shared insights on Iran’s recent participation in various international forums, including the 37th East Asia and Pacific Commission and the 60th South Asia Commission meetings of the UN Tourism (formerly known as UNWTO) held in Jakarta. He noted that Iran’s election to the UN Tourism’s Executive Council opens up new opportunities for the country’s tourism sector.
Shojaei also mentioned the signing of a memorandum of understanding with UN Tourism to host an international urban tourism summit in Tehran. This partnership is expected to further elevate Iran’s standing in the global tourism landscape.
To enhance its global image, Shojaei discussed plans to leverage influencer marketing effectively. Utilizing interactive content, media coverage, and digital platforms will help build trust and promote Iran on an international scale.
Looking to the future, Shojaei outlined Iran’s ambitious plans to participate in ten international tourism exhibitions and organize five tourism roadshows in cities such as:
- Basra
- Baghdad
- Karbala
- Najaf
- Poland
- Hungary
- Serbia
- Russia
Additionally, he revealed plans for Iran to host a conference dedicated to the Silk Road countries in Semnan and the third International Health Tourism Conference for ECO member states in Hamedan later this year. These events are expected to foster collaboration and enhance Iran’s reputation as a premier travel destination.
In conclusion, this international tour operators forum marks a significant step for Iran in its quest to reshape its tourism narrative and attract global visitors. With a rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, Iran is poised to become a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide.
