Iran combines ancient civilisations, diverse natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
After a steep downturn during the pandemic, Iran’s tourism sector is showing signs of recovery.
In 2023, Iran welcomed around 5.9 million international tourists, up 43% year-on-year, though still well below its 2019 peak of ~8.8 million.
Key stats: Iran Tourism
- Around 5.9 million international visitors in 2023 — a strong rebound for Iran after several turbulent years.
- Tourism industry grew ~21% in 2023, with the sector reaching ~4.7% of Iran’s economy.
- ≈ 6.38 million arrivals in the Persian year 1402 (ending March 2024) — growth continuing into early 2024.
- Over 3.1 million visitors in H1 2024, yet still around 37% below 2019 levels, signalling room for further recovery.
- 1.398 million tourists in Q1 2024 alone, up about 60% year-on-year for that quarter.
- Visitors from Iraq made up about 37% of inbound tourists in 2023, making it the largest single source market.
- Potential tourism revenue of ~US$6.9 billion in 2023, based on estimated spend per visitor.
- Projections target ~16.8 million arrivals by 2028, suggesting ambitious growth ahead.
How Many Tourists Visit Iran Each Year?
In 2023, Iran received ~5.9 million foreign tourists, representing a significant rebound from ~4.1 million in 2022.
Additional data show that for the first six months of 2024, Iran received ~3.13 million foreign visitors, indicating continued recovery.
For context:
- 2019 (pre-pandemic peak): ~8.8 million foreign visitors
- 2020–21: steep decline due to global travel restrictions.
How Many Tourists Visit Iran Each Day?
On an annual average basis in 2023 (~5.9 M visitors), that translates to about ~16,200 foreign visitors per day (5,900,000 ÷ 365).
During peak travel periods (e.g., Nowruz) the daily numbers are higher, though exact daily peaks are not publicly broken down.
How Much Do Visitors Spend in Iran?
Detailed up-to-date publicly available figures for total tourism receipts in Iran are limited. According to projections: Iran’s inbound tourism expenditure is projected to reach ≈ US$12.2 billion by 2028, up from ~US$11.3 billion in 2023.
Thus, while visitors are increasing, the sector’s revenue figures are still catching up to the pre-pandemic potential.
Which Countries Visit Iran the Most?
Reliable breakdowns by country are sparse for recent years, but historically the largest source markets for Iran include neighbouring countries and regional markets (e.g., Iraq, Azerbaijan, Turkey).
Given visa-waiver developments and regional moves, Iran is focusing on attracting visitors from countries such as Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia.
What Are the Most Visited Attractions in Iran?
Iran’s tourism draws travel across culture, nature, and pilgrimage. Key visited places include:
- Persepolis (ancient capital ruins)
- Isfahan city and its historic bridges/mosques
- Shiraz (gardens and heritage)
- Mashhad (pilgrimage city)
- Desert regions such as the Lut Desert
Exact recent visitor counts per individual attraction are limited in public sources.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Iran? (Seasonality)
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) offer mild weather and high cultural activity.
- Nowruz (Iranian New Year, late March) is a peak domestic travel period.
- Summer (June–August) can be very hot and less comfortable for some travelers.
- Winter (December–February) is cooler, especially in key heritage cities, and may offer good value.
What Are the Biggest Events Attracting Tourists to Iran?
Iran hosts many festivals and cultural events though their reach to international leisure tourists is less documented. Examples include:
- Nowruz celebrations (late March) – domestic tourism surge
- Historic and heritage site anniversaries and cultural festivals
- Religious pilgrimages to key Shi’a shrines (especially in Mashhad & Qom)
Data for international attendance to specific major events is not comprehensively available in public domain.
How Much Does Iran Make From Tourism?
While full breakdowns are limited, key indicators:
- Tourism receipts projected to reach ~US$12.2 billion by 2028.
- International visitor numbers at ~5.9 million in 2023
Recovery continues, but Iran remains ~37% below its 2019 foreign arrival levels.
Which Areas of Iran Are Most Popular With Tourists?
Popular regions for visitors include:
- Tehran – capital, museums & urban culture
- Isfahan – architecture, bridges, Persian gardens
- Shiraz – gardens, poetry heritage
- Persepolis & Fars Province – ancient ruins
- Mashhad & Qom – pilgrimage destinations
- Northern Caspian region & southern coasts – nature & leisure
FAQ – Iran Tourism Insights
How many tourists visit Iran each year?
Approximately 5.9 million international visitors in 2023, with ongoing recovery.
What is Iran known for in tourism?
Ancient civilisations, rich cultural heritage (27 UNESCO sites), pilgrimage cities, desert landscapes and Persian gardens.
When is the best time to visit Iran?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (Sep–Nov) for comfortable weather and cultural richness.
Is tourism in Iran cheap or expensive?
Iran offers good value relative to many destinations but logistics for international tourists may vary due to sanctions, payment systems, and visa processes.
Which areas are best to stay in Iran?
Heritage city centres (Isfahan, Shiraz), pilgrimage hubs (Mashhad), and Tehran for culture and urban access.
Can tourists safely travel to Iran?
Many travelers do visit Iran safely; however, security concerns, sanctions, payment systems, and changing visa rules mean planning is important.
Sources
- IRNA (Islamic Republic News Agency) — Iran reports 43% surge in tourism arrivals
- Tehran Times — International tourism in Iran sees modest recovery, still 37% below pre-pandemic levels
- VisitOurIran.com — Tourism in Iran: What Travelers Want to Know
- WANA News — Foreign Tourist Arrivals in Iran Surged by 20%
- ReportLinker Research — Iran Tourism Industry Outlook 2024-2028
0 Comment