TEHRAN – An Iranian expert has conducted a research project probing the feasibility of launching shark tourism in the waters surrounding Chabahar in the Sea of Oman.

The research has been conducted with the support of the National Science Foundation of Iran with the aim of developing various aspects of eco-tourism in Iran, IRNA reported.

According to the foundation, maintainable utilization of natural resources through eco-tourism is a fundamental aspect of sustainable development.

“Shark tourism has emerged as a highly profitable industry over the past few decades,” said the project’s conductor, Amir Ghazilou, an assistant professor at the National Institute of Oceanography and Atmospheric Science, who holds a PhD in Marine Biology from Shahid Beheshti University.

“Unlike traditional tourism, which is often based on single-use experiences, shark tourism offers ongoing interaction with living ecosystems, which has garnered significant attention from many countries.”

Ghazilou highlighted that with Iran's 20-year national vision emphasizing the importance of boosting non-oil revenues and reducing reliance on oil exports, a precise feasibility study on establishing shark tourism in Chabahar could be a key step in leveraging the unique marine resources of the Sea of Oman for economic gain.

He further noted that this initiative could significantly elevate Iran’s profile as a leading provider of shark tourism services in the region.

The study also explored four key components of the shark tourism industry in the waters around Chabahar, including the types of sharks in the area, the level of interest among Iranians in shark tourism, and the potential for establishing competitive diving clubs in the region.

Ghazilou pointed out that integrating this industry with other forms of nature tourism currently active in the region, such as dolphin watching, bird-watching tours, and mangrove forest excursions, could further enhance the development of the tourism sector.

He also suggested that combining these various tourism experiences into a comprehensive marine tourism package could potentially attract even more visitors to the area.

Shark tourism, a form of eco-tourism, allows people to dive with sharks in their natural habitat, offering both adventure and an opportunity to promote marine conservation.

AM