Iran Launches One Village, One Eco‑Lodge Rural Tourism and Handicraft Programs to Boost Sustainable Jobs, Preserve Culture and Drive National Tourism Growth

Written By: Gishan Das

Gishan Das

Gishan Das is a dedicated graduate with academic backgrounds in History and Political Science and practical experience in journalism and digital content creation. He completed his History Honours from Serampore College under the University of Calcutta and Political Science Honours from Indira Gandhi National Open University in 2025. His academic credentials are supported by professional certifications including a B2 level Certification in French language, NISM Financial Education certification in collaboration with the Aditya Birla Group alongside Gishan has strong expertise in journalism, news research and SEO-based content writing. He has demonstrated skills in news analysis, fact-checking, headline creation, digital storytelling and search-optimized reporting, which are also reflected in the journalism and media skills

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June 7, 2026 15:33 GMT+5:30

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Iranian Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri, has unveiled a collaborative effort with the country’s ministry of Information and Communications Technology geared towards the creation of jobs, the boost of tourism, and reversing the trend of migration from rural regions to cities.

Addressing a meeting with Communications Minister Sattar Hashemi in the Iranian capital of Tehran, Salehi-Amiri highlighted that access to the Internet was a critical factor in facilitating economic growth, businesses, as well as boosting tourism and handicraft industries in Iran. He lauded efforts being made by the government for restoring international Internet connectivity, which have helped improve citizens’ social capital.

Reviving Tourism Projects and Attracting Investment

Salehi-Amiri revealed that his ministry has begun reactivating tourism projects and infrastructure that were interrupted during the recent conflict period. In coordination with 50 major investors, discussions are underway to revive rural tourism and stimulate investment, creating new economic opportunities in villages.

The minister highlighted that rural areas are strategic assets for sustainable development, preserving cultural identity, supporting national production, and maintaining traditional ways of life. He noted that rural populations have declined over recent decades, alongside urban growth, stressing the need for policies that enhance the economic and social appeal of villages.

Introducing “One Village, One Eco-Lodge” and Handicraft Programs

As part of the rural development strategy, Iran has launched two major initiatives:

• One Village, One Eco-Lodge – to develop sustainable lodging facilities in villages that attract tourists and nature enthusiasts.
• One Village, One Family Handicraft Workshop – to support local artisans, promote Iranian culture, and connect traditional crafts to national and international markets.

These programs aim to create sustainable employment, increase household incomes, and promote Iranian culture through tourism and handicrafts. Government financial support has been expanded, with higher loan ceilings to assist in establishing eco-lodges and developing handicraft-based businesses in rural communities.

Growing Domestic Interest in Rural Tourism

Salehi-Amiri highlighted strong domestic interest in rural tourism, noting that 4.7 million people visited villages during the Nowruz holidays in 2026. Travelers are increasingly seeking eco-lodge stays, nature tourism, cultural experiences, and authentic local lifestyles.

This growing demand reflects a trend toward experiential and adventure tourism, where visitors value immersive cultural experiences and sustainable stays. By promoting eco-lodges and handicrafts, Iran seeks to diversify its tourism sector, attracting high-value travelers and supporting regional economies.

Digital Infrastructure as a Key Driver

The minister emphasized that digital connectivity is essential for the success of rural development programs. Tourism and handicraft sectors increasingly rely on online tools:

• Tourists use online reservations to plan eco-lodge and village experiences.
• Artisans and handicraft producers require high-speed Internet to access e-commerce platforms and digital marketing channels.

“Employment and communications are the two wings of rural development,” Salehi-Amiri said. High-quality digital infrastructure ensures that eco-lodges thrive and that traditional handicrafts reach global markets, supporting sustainable tourism growth.

Future Travel Tech and Eco-Tourism Growth

The initiatives are aligned with global trends in travel technology and eco-tourism, positioning Iran as a modern, sustainable tourism destination. By integrating digital platforms, online booking systems, and AR/VR-based visitor experiences, the government aims to:

• Increase rural household incomes through tourism and craft sales
• Encourage reverse migration by creating viable economic opportunities in villages
• Enhance visitor experiences using technology for navigation, education, and cultural storytelling
• Promote eco-friendly tourism aligned with sustainable development goals

These programs ensure that Iran’s rural tourism sector grows sustainably, attracting international and domestic travelers who value authentic cultural and natural experiences.

Linking Tourism, Handicrafts, and Local Economies

By combining tourism, handicraft production, and local economic development, Iran is creating holistic rural growth opportunities with One Village, One Eco‑Lodge  Program. Eco-lodges and artisan workshops provide employment, stimulate local commerce, and strengthen communities, while digital platforms connect these villages to regional and global markets.

This integrated approach highlights Iran’s commitment to sustainable, technology-enhanced tourism, ensuring that development preserves cultural heritage and environmental resources while fostering long-term economic resilience.

Pioneering Sustainable and Tech-Enabled Rural Tourism

Iran’s collaboration between the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, and the Ministry of ICT is an example of a future-focused strategy for rural development. Iran seeks to take the lead in sustainable and technologically advanced tourism through the promotion of eco-lodges, handicrafts, adventure tourism, and technology use.

Apart from contributing to the creation of employment opportunities and economic development in rural areas, these strategies will help establish a stronger culture of tourism in Iran. Given that there is a rising demand among Iranians for eco-tourism and adventure tourism, along with an effective digital infrastructure, Iran will continue developing as a destination for innovative tourism experiences.