TEHRAN – Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Reza Salehi Amiri has underlined Iran’s commitment to boost tourism investment that includes construction of 500 hotels.

Addressing a ceremony held on Saturday to mark the 90th anniversary of Tonekabon’s municipal establishment, Salehi Amiri also called for greater involvement of the private sector.

“While the government can address 20 percent of the infrastructure needs, private investment is crucial to filling the gap,” he said.

The minister emphasized the government’s pledge to construct 100 hotels annually during a five-year development plan, with a target of doubling the number of tourism sector employees from 500,000 to one million.

“We are committed to making significant strides in the tourism industry, and [adequate] infrastructure is a fundamental part of this development,” Salehi Amiri said.

“Investment in the tourism sector will also see a substantial increase, with the Ministry of Cultural Heritage raising its commitment from €224 million to €500 million,” the minister said.

He noted that this surge in funding is aimed at creating the necessary infrastructure to support the growing demand for tourism services.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Salehi Amiri highlighted the importance of attractiveness in tourism, describing it as the “first need” for the industry.

He noted that festivals, such as the one held in Tonekabon, play a crucial role in showcasing the charm of cities and regions across the country. He also emphasized that beyond scenic appeal, robust infrastructure is essential for the long-term success of tourism.

Salehi Amiri also spoke of Iran’s vast potential in maritime tourism, which remains largely untapped but could become a significant driver of development.

The development of this sector is one of the government’s focus areas, alongside efforts to promote the export of handicrafts, particularly from regions like Mazandaran, which has seen new opportunities emerge in the global market.

Referring to Iran’s rich cultural heritage, the minister noted the [national] registration of about 35,000 historical and cultural [sites and] artifacts. “Wherever you dig in this country, a piece of history emerges,” he said.

Another speaker at the event was Mazandaran’s governor-general Yousef Nouri, who echoed the call for enhanced tourism infrastructure, noting that the province has the potential to combine all of its attractions, from mountains to seas, into a comprehensive tourism package.

Furthermore, Nouri announced that plans are underway for a “sea-based development strategy” to further tap into the region’s potential and attract investors.

Mazandaran, situated in northern Iran along the Caspian Sea, is renowned for its diverse tourist attractions and natural beauty. The province boasts approximately 2,500 historical and natural sites, including ancient buildings and picturesque landscapes. Its diverse terrain ranges from lush coastal plains to verdant mountains, providing a variety of outdoor activities and scenic vistas.

AM