Iran has implemented a visa-free travel initiative for citizens of more than 30 countries globally, signaling a strategic move to enhance its tourism sector.
Among the nations included in this initiative are Gulf countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, along with others like India, Brazil, and Indonesia.
Iran opens its doors with visa-free entry for 33 nations.
The Iranian Cabinet took the decision without consulting anybody else in an effort to broaden the country's tourist appeal by doing away with visa requirements.
Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, Ezzatollah Zarghami, announced the move, emphasising the government's commitment to boosting tourism arrivals and fostering positive cultural exchanges. This decision comes as part of Iran's ongoing efforts to position itself as an appealing destination on the global tourism map.
Rising tourism numbers
Recent statistics reveal a significant surge in foreign arrivals during the first eight months of the current Iranian year, reaching 4.4 million. This represents a substantial increase of 48.5% compared to the same period in the previous year. The visa-free travel initiative is anticipated to contribute further to this positive trend, making travel to Iran more accessible and attractive for international tourists.
Visa-Waiver Programme Countries
The list of countries included in the new visa-waiver programme is diverse, featuring India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Russia (in group visits), Qatar, Kuwait, Indonesia, Brazil, and many more. This comprehensive approach aims to encourage individuals from various regions to explore the rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and natural beauty that Iran has to offer.
Previous Visa Waiver Programmes
Iran had previously introduced visa waiver programmes for citizens of Turkey, Azerbaijan, Oman, China, Armenia, and Syria. The combination of these initiatives underscores Iran's commitment to creating an open and welcoming environment for international visitors, fostering economic growth through tourism, and facilitating positive cross-cultural interactions.
Tourism Promotion
The tourism sector plays a crucial role in contributing to a country's economy, and Iran's proactive steps in easing travel restrictions demonstrate its dedication to leveraging the potential of tourism as a driver for economic and cultural development. The decision aligns with Iran's broader strategy to position itself as a prominent destination for global travellers, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between nations.
The 33 countries approved for the new visa-waiver programme are:
- India
- Russian Federation (in group visits)
- UAE
- Bahrain
- Saudi Arabia
- Qatar
- Kuwait
- Lebanon
- Uzbekistan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Tajikistan
- Tunisia
- Mauritania
- Tanzania
- Zimbabwe
- Mauritius
- Seychelles
- Indonesia
- Brunei
- Japan
- Singapore
- Cambodia
- Malaysia
- Vietnam
- Brazil
- Peru
- Cuba
- Mexico
- Venezuela
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Serbia
- Croatia
- Belarus
