Iran’s tourism sector growing, but is it enough?
Iran’s tourism industry has experienced a rebirth since the 2013 election of moderate President Hassan Rouhani. Yet the industry is still far from the realization of its full potential.
![A Trip Through The Heart Of Central Iran 25 Years After Khomeini's Death ISFAHAN, IRAN - JUNE 02: People spend an afternoon at Isfahan's Unesco-listed central square on June 2, 2014 in Isfahan, Iran. Isfahan, with it's immense mosques, picturesque bridges and ancient bazaar, is a virtual living museum of Iranian traditional culture. It's also the Iran's top tourist destination for both Iranian and domestic visitors. On June 4 Iran marks the 25th anniversary of the death of the Ayatollah Khomeini and his legacy of the Islamic Revolution. In the background of the photo is the Ima](/sites/default/files/styles/article_hero_medium/public/almpics/2016/08/GettyImages-495330417.jpg/GettyImages-495330417.jpg?h=f7822858&itok=IhvklIKX)
TEHRAN, Iran — Endowed with ancient history and rich cultural treasures, Iran is among the top 20 countries in terms of the highest number of tourism attractions. From the world-renowned 2,500-year-old ruins of Persepolis to the archaeological mounds in Susa and Meymand villages, Iran is home to 19 UNESCO-designated World Heritage sites; the latter two were added to this list a year ago.
Contrary to many of its neighbors in the Persian Gulf region, Iran enjoys a highly diverse culture as it is home to many different ethnic and religious groups. It is also among the countries that enjoy four genuine seasons, giving every visitor the chance to choose from a wide range of activities and tastes.