A lifeline for Iran’s national, international development

By Reza Salehi Amiri

Iran’s minister of cultural heritage, tourism and handicrafts

In today’s world, the tourism industry is seen not only as a cornerstone of economic and cultural development for countries but also plays a key role in promoting culture, expanding international relations, and creating job opportunities. Developing this sector will not be possible without investing in core infrastructure. With its unparalleled cultural, historical, natural, and geographical capacities, Iran can boost its global standing by scaling up its tourism infrastructure.

In this vein, the opening of the five-star Araz Hotel in the northern city of Nowshahr on April 1—now the largest in the country—marks a major leap forward. The project, backed by a $150 million investment, is not just a physical structure but a symbol of the government’s commitment to supporting tourism investment and improving its infrastructure. The Araz Hotel, equipped with facilities that measure up to global standards, has created new opportunities for drawing in both domestic and foreign tourists, contributing to economic growth and job creation in the region.
Expanding tourism infrastructure will not only open the floodgates to more visitors but will also help win over investors—both local and international. With its rich natural and cultural resources, Iran is well-positioned to carve out a hub for regional and global tourism. Yet this vision can only come to fruition with large-scale investments in hotels, accommodation centers, transport networks, and other supporting infrastructure.  Global tourism has become a cutthroat battleground where countries are to maintain their competitive edge through modern technologies and the development of smart infrastructure. Iran, with its ancient heritage, has great potential for attracting tourists, but unlocking such potential needs establishing standard infrastructure that meets tourist expectations.
Investment in tourism needs legal transparency and streamlined implementation. Creating suitable environments for both domestic and foreign investors, particularly in accommodation and leisure, is among the government’s long-term goals. Slashing red tape and supporting the private sector are essential steps. Projects like the Araz Hotel are significant not only economically but also as a symbol of government support for private investors.

Despite Iran’s vast tourism potential, challenges such as inadequate lodging and recreational infrastructure, land use issues, and restrictions on tapping into natural resources continue to hold things back. However, focusing on sustainable development principles and leveraging local and regional capacities will not only take the pressure off natural resources but also open new avenues for tourism growth. Sustainable tourism development will only come through collaboration among policymakers, the private sector, and local communities.
The government’s role is to support investors and facilitate laws, but strategic cooperation with the private sector is an undeniable necessity. Investors play a crucial role not only in developing infrastructure but also in creating jobs and strengthening the national economy. The government is working hard to clear the runway for Iran to break into the global tourism market, aiming to attract massive investments and develop tourism.
For the country, boosting tourism infrastructure is more than an economic choice—it is a national strategy to cement Iran’s foothold in the region and the world. This path will not only bring economic growth and employment but will also serve as a bridge for stronger links between national identity and international interactions.