Iran aiming to boost tourism in Isfahan western counties

February 5, 2024 - 19:15

TEHRAN – The Deputy for Urban Affairs of the Isfahan Provincial Governorate has announced a significant increase in tourism investment in the western region of Isfahan Province.

Mehran Zeinalian shared, "Hosting the sixth session of the Executive Committee for Travel Services in Isfahan Province, with a specific focus on the western counties, aims to stimulate tourism in this region, building upon the successes achieved in other regions."

Expanding on this, the Deputy for Urban Affairs emphasized that governors and members of the travel committees in western counties are required to propose five significant tourism investment projects each for their respective counties. These projects will be executed through collaboration with the provincial management.

Furthermore, he highlighted, "A comprehensive plan is underway, envisioning the development of 45 tourism investment projects in this initiative. The goal is to substantially enhance tourism infrastructure in the western part of the province compared to previous years. This enhancement will be made possible by securing support from the private sector, especially local investors, and with government backing."

In recent years, Isfahan Province has witnessed a surge in interest from tourists and investors alike, drawn to its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. The province's diverse attractions, including UNESCO World Heritage sites, have contributed to its growing reputation as a prime destination. 

Soaked in a rich history, Isfahan was once a crossroads of international trade and diplomacy in Iran and now it is one of Iran’s top tourist destinations for good reasons. 

The ancient city is renowned not only for the abundance of great historical bridges but also for its “life-giving river,” the Zayandeh-Rood, which has long bestowed the city an original beauty and fertility. 

Isfahan has long been nicknamed as Nesf-e-Jahan which is translated into “half the world”; meaning seeing it is relevant to see half the world. In its heyday, it was also one of the largest cities in the region with a population of nearly one million.

The cool blue tiles of Isfahan’s Islamic buildings, and the city’s majestic bridges, contrast perfectly with the encircling hot, dry Iranian countryside. 

The huge Imam Square, best known as Naghsh-e Jahan Sq. is one of the largest in the world (500m by 160m), and a majestic example of town planning. Constructed in the early 17th century, the UNESCO-registered square is punctuated with the most interesting sights in Isfahan.

Modern Isfahan is home to some heavy industry, including steel factories and a nuclear facility on its outskirts, however, its inner core wants to be preserved as a priceless gem. 

The city is also home to a gigantic, professional, and state-of-the-art healthcare city, which is a major destination in the realm of medical tourism.

The focus on the western counties demonstrates a strategic approach to spreading tourism benefits across the entire region, promoting sustainable growth and economic development. As this initiative unfolds, it is anticipated that Isfahan's tourism landscape will witness substantial advancements, making it an even more alluring destination on the global stage.