TEHRAN – Iran’s deputy tourism minister has highlighted opportunities to expand tourism relations between the Islamic Republic and Indonesia.

Shalbafian on Thursday emphasized the potential for Indonesian [medical] tourists to benefit from Iran's advanced medical and healthcare services. He stated, “Iranian medical and healthcare facilities offer cutting-edge and efficient services that Indonesian tourists can utilize.”

He was speaking on the sidelines of a roadshow that marked the final stop of Iran’s East Asia tourism roadshow in Jakarta, following successful events in Vietnam and Malaysia. The one-day event saw key officials and private sector leaders from both nations engaging in business meetings and discussions on future tourism agreements.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Shalbafian described the tourism relations between the two countries as active and growing. “The Islamic Republic of Iran, with its rich cultural and historical resources, along with specialized medical and healthcare opportunities, offers an attractive destination for Indonesian tourists,” he said.

He also mentioned the concept of “Umrah Plus” tours, positioning Iran as a stopover destination for pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj rituals.

The event, which aimed to showcase Iran's tourism capacities, saw significant participation from over 120 Indonesian tourism companies.

Shalbafian underlined the broader impact of tourism, noting, “We believe that the development of tourism not only contributes to the economic growth of countries but also strengthens cultural and social bridges between nations. “We are ready to elevate Iran-Indonesia tourism to higher levels through closer cooperation and shared experiences and knowledge.”

The official pointed out Iran's diverse tourism capacities and extensive opportunities for developing the tourism industry, including investments in infrastructure, the creation of accommodation and recreational centers, and the expansion of tourism services. He invited Indonesian investors to explore these opportunities, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and experience exchange in this sector's development.

Highlighting another significant step to foster tourism exchange, Shalbafian announced Iran's unilateral visa waiver for Indonesian citizens. “Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world, and given the extensive Halal tourism offerings in Iran, including food, sports, and beach activities, Iran can be a suitable destination for Indonesian Muslims.”

Shalbafian also stressed the importance of establishing direct flights to reduce travel costs and enhance tourism exchanges between the two countries. “Direct flights can pave the way for more robust connections among private sector players from both nations.”

In his concluding remarks to the private sector participants, Shalbafian assured them of the professionalism and reputation of the Iranian delegation. He invited all participants to visit Iran and experience its attractions and beauty firsthand. “We are fully prepared to welcome you and hope you have a memorable and delightful experience in Iran.”

Moreover, Tehran’s ambassador to Jakarta, Mohammad Boroujerdi, discussed the progress in tourism cooperation between the two nations. “We are working with the Indonesian government to finalize administrative steps to obtain direct flight permits between Iran and Indonesia,” the envoy said.

The roadshow continued with the signing of a memorandum of understanding for cooperation between the Head of the Iranian Tour Association, Mustafa Shafiei-Shakib and the General Chairperson of the Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Tour and Travel Association (ASITA), Nunung Rusmiati.

The Islamic Republic expects to reap a bonanza from its numerous tourist spots such as bazaars, museums, mosques, bridges, bathhouses, madrasas, mausoleums, churches, towers, and mansions, of which 27 are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

AM