TEHRAN - The Supreme Council of Free Trade-Industrial and Special Economic Zones has said the expansion of medical tourism is a top priority for Iran’s free zones.

“Medical tourism in free zones of the country is of special interest,” a top official with the council said on Wednesday.

“Our tourism plans for the free zones of the country are comprehensive and efforts are made to use all capacities for the development of tourism concerning their foreign arrivals and natural attractions,” Gholamreza Khalilinia said. 

For example, the Arvand Free Zone enjoys specialist doctors in various fields along with seven hospitals, the official said.

He said the scientific capacity of free zones should be utilized more than ever as they are routinely visited by nationals from the neighboring countries.

The Islamic Republic has emerged as a significant destination for medical tourism, attracting individuals from various parts of the world seeking high-quality healthcare services at affordable prices.

The country’s medical tourism sector has experienced substantial growth due to its advanced medical facilities, skilled healthcare professionals, and cost-effective treatments.  The country boasts a robust healthcare infrastructure with modern hospitals, specialized clinics, and state-of-the-art medical equipment. Major cities like Tehran, Shiraz, and Isfahan house internationally accredited medical facilities offering a wide range of medical treatments and procedure

The number of medical tourists visiting Iran revolves around one million per annum, an official with the Health Ministry has said. “Every year, one million foreign patients are treated in Iran,” said Mohammad-Hossein Niknam, who presides over the ministry’s department for international cooperation.

As mentioned by the council, “the free zones of Iran play an important role in the prosperity of the national economy. They have been established to help improve comprehensive social welfare and competition in global markets…”

AFM