Ilam’s Tourism Boost: 22 Units Awarded Standard Quality Certification

In an exciting development for the tourism sector, Ilam province in western Iran is making significant strides in enhancing its tourism services. With recent initiatives aimed at improving the quality of tourist facilities, the province is poised to attract even more visitors. The head of Ilam’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Department, Farzad Sharifi, announced that 37 tourism units in the province have entered the standardization process, with 22 units successfully obtaining a certificate of tourism service quality.

Sharifi explained to IRNA that the renewal of tourist facility activity licenses is contingent upon a thorough evaluation and the acquisition of the service quality certificate. This evaluation process considers several key criteria, including:

• Technical specifications
• Equipment quality
• Human resources
• Quality of service provision

According to Sharifi, the evaluation of tourist facilities has been conducted by the ‘Ideh Novin Gardeshgari’ company, in collaboration with a representative from the country’s tourism services supervision and evaluation department. This initiative aligns with the executive regulations for creating, modifying, completing, grading, and pricing tourist facilities, ensuring that they meet high standards.

Sharifi emphasized that having standardized accommodation and service facilities is crucial for the prosperity of tourism in Ilam. Currently, the province boasts:

• 127 ecotourism units
• 143 service, welfare, and accommodation complexes

Each of these facilities contributes to attracting tourists by promoting local culture and enhancing regional identity. Excitingly, Sharifi revealed that the province’s first three-star rural hotel in Ilam city is set to open soon. Additionally, a four-star hotel project is underway in Quran Square, which has already reached over 20% physical progress.

The project requires an investment of 400 billion rials (approximately $400,000) from Iran’s National Development Fund (NDF), with backing from the governor-general and members of the Iranian parliament (Majlis). This financial support is pivotal for advancing the province’s tourism infrastructure.

Moreover, the number of tourists visiting Ilam has seen a significant increase, particularly during the Nowruz holidays. Sharifi noted that over 360,000 visitors chose Ilam as their travel destination during this festive period. He attributed this surge to effective media campaigns and the active participation of virtual influencers in promoting Ilam’s attractions.

In an effort to maintain high standards in tourism, the province is also identifying and regulating unauthorized tourism centers. Owners of these centers are required to register and obtain activity licenses through the comprehensive tourism monitoring system known as ‘JANA’ at myst.mcth.ir.

Sharifi assured that the department is committed to continuously evaluating tourism facilities and addressing illegal activities to protect tourists’ rights and promote healthy tourism in collaboration with public and regulatory agencies.

Ilam province covers an area of 19,086 square kilometers and encompasses several cities, including Ilam, Mehran, Dehloran, Darreh Shahr, Eyvan, and Abdanan. It shares borders with three provinces: Khuzestan to the south, Lorestan to the east, and Kermanshah to the north. Notably, Ilam also has a 425-kilometer common border with Iraq to the west, positioning it as a significant gateway for millions of pilgrims visiting holy shrines in Iraq.

Visitors to Ilam can expect hot, dry summers and temperate winters, making it an appealing destination year-round. The province is renowned for its stunning spring landscapes, characterized by lush greenery and vibrant natural beauty. The capital city of Ilam, surrounded by mountains and forests, offers a unique mountainous climate that enhances the overall experience for tourists.

Among the many attractions, ancient castles, channels, and riverbeds nestled within the mountainous terrain draw visitors, particularly in spring when the landscape transforms into a verdant paradise.

With these ongoing developments, Ilam province is set to solidify its position on Iran’s tourism map, providing a rich cultural experience and a variety of attractions for both local and international travelers.