TEHRAN – The International Tourism Rally of the Historical Spice Road began on November 6 in Iran’s Chabahar, with participants embarking on a cross-country journey aimed at promoting a message of peace and friendship.

The rally, featuring camper vans, caravans, and travel motorcycles, will traverse several Iranian cities before culminating at the Sulaymaniyah International Tourism Expo in Iraq on November 17.

The event launched with a ceremonial send-off from local officials and auto-racing enthusiasts, marking the start of a journey through cities such as Bam, Kerman, Yazd, Kashan, Qom, and Tehran. The rally is expected to grow in number as more participants join from southern and western cities along the route.

When reaching Tehran, participants will travel through Hamedan, Sanandaj, and Marivan before crossing into Iraq via the Bashmaq border in Kordestan province. Iraqi officials, including the governor of Halabja, are set to welcome the group for a ceremonial tribute to commemorate victims of the Halabja and Sardasht chemical attacks, which took place in 1988 upon the order of the then-Iraqi president Saddam Hussein.

Upon arrival in Sulaymaniyah on November 13, rally vehicles will gather at the expo site. From November 14 to 16, the vehicles will be on display as part of Iran’s pavilion at the Sulaymaniyah International Tourism Expo, where the Touring & Automobile Club of the Islamic Republic of Iran will showcase Iran's tourism offerings.

According to organizers, the pavilion will highlight the country’s rich cultural heritage, health tourism, and natural attractions, along with customs pass services for foreign visitors.

In addition to exhibitions, the event will feature safari and ecotourism workshops, cultural performances, and displays of Iranian handicrafts. Representatives from over ten countries will participate, creating a unique platform to introduce Iran’s tourism appeal and to counter negative portrayals in foreign media.

Organized with support from Iran’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, the rally which bears the theme of “Peace and Health”, is aimed to foster international dialogue and promote Iran’s image as a peaceful and welcoming destination for global travelers.

AM