Iran’s tourism industry on brink of collapse - Tehran-based daily

Iran's tourism industry has collapsed over the past five years, with one agency owner describing the situation as "the destruction of the tourism industry," Tehran-based Etemad newspaper reported.

The crisis has reportedly forced the US-designated Bonyad-e Mostazafan (Foundation of the Oppressed), a powerful state-run charitable organization that has expanded into various sectors, including tourism, to sell its hotels.

"The condition of this industry is so dire that Bonyad-e Mostazafan has been forced to sell its hotels," the agency owner said.

Last year in December, Ebrahim Pourfaraj, the head of the Association of Iranian Tour Operators, said Iran's tourism industry was at its lowest point.

Iran, historically known for its rich cultural and historical heritage as well as its natural beauty, has struggled to attract foreign tourists in recent years, exacerbated by the detention of foreigners and dual-nationals. Despite its allure, the country faced challenges such as strict dress codes for women and restrictions on alcohol and nightlife.