Iran tourism expects more than 50,000 Russian tourists’ surge

TEHRAN: Iran‘s tourism officials are optimistic about surpassing last year’s record of 50,000 Russian tourists visiting their country, projecting even higher numbers for 2024.

Moslem Shojaei, head of the Office for Foreign Tourism Marketing and Development at Iran’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, announced these projections during an international tourism conference in Moscow.

Shojaei highlighted the growing tourism exchange between Iran and Russia, noting that over 60,000 Iranian tourists traveled to Russia last year.

This bilateral flow may further increase with the implementation of a new visa waiver agreement for group travel between the two nations.

It will be allowing groups ranging from 5 to 50 people to stay up to 15 days without a visa requirement.

“Both Iran and Russia possess rich cultural, historical, and natural attractions, which provide excellent opportunities for mutual tourism,” emphasized Shojaei.

He underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to enhance tourism flows and promote cultural exchanges between the two countries.

Earlier invitations from Tehran’s ambassador to Moscow, Kazem Jalali, encouraged Russian firms to invest in Iran’s tourism infrastructure, highlighting the sector’s potential for growth and cooperation.

The bilateral visa-free exchange program introduced last year has significantly boosted interest among Iranian tourists, signaling a promising outlook for future tourism development.

Iran boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, including bazaars, museums, mosques, and historical landmarks, which are expected to attract a diverse range of international visitors.

As both nations continue to foster closer ties and ease travel restrictions, tourism officials anticipate a prosperous year ahead for tourism between Iran and Russia.

Courtesy: travelandtourworld