Iran expects tourism boost

The country prepares itself for a “tsunami” of tourists, as Iran is set to implement the landmark nuclear deal to lift sanctions

Iran is opening its doors for foreigner visitors again, as the world powers aim to implement the historic July nuclear deal that will lift the sanctions over the country. In the last two years, Iran experienced a 12% tourism growth, with 5 million tourists and $7.5 billion influx registered in 2014. For 2025, Iran aims to welcome 20 million tourists a year, with a $30 billion forecast.

The country is abundant in both historical and cultural locations, as it is home to 19 UNESCO sites. In expectancy of tourism boost, Iran will develop 1300 new projects to attract tourists and world-wide investors.

Masoud Soltanifar, head of Iran's Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization, declared for the Associated Press:

"In the post-sanctions era, tourism is an industry that will get a boost more than any other sector.

"Tourism is certainly the driving engine to get Iran's economy out of recession.

“Iran's tourism sector is a flourishing market for investors. We are anticipating a tsunami of tourists after sanctions are lifted.”

As the U.S. State Department still warns its citizens to "carefully consider the risks of travel to Iran," the country's officials are aiming to remove visa obstacles for tourists from 190 countries by extending the issue period and by introducing electronic visa procedures.

For the moment, lack of accommodation and transport made the officials to consider building new, modern hotels and renovate the country's grounded aircrafts.

"We need to increase our four and five star hotels from 130 to 400 in 10 years. We are providing low-interest funds out of the National Development Fund to private investors to build modern hotels.

"We need to renovate our air transportation system and buy new planes after sanctions are lifted. But this will be time-consuming.

"American tourists and investors are welcome. There is no obstacle or restrictions for them to visit Iran or invest in the country," Soltanifar added.