Tehran Aims to Become a Global City for Life and Tourism with New Initiatives

Published on December 12, 2025

Tehran, the capital of Iran, is witnessing a big change. Having been known as a vibrant business and administrative center, it has lately been working hard to become a global city for life and for travel. Various recent efforts and investments made with regard to tourist developments have brought it even closer to realizing its ambitious plan, which aims not only at enhancing tourist appeal but also at improving life within.

Urban Tourism Development: Key Investments and Projects
Tehran’s journey toward becoming a tourist-friendly city is marked by several impactful urban initiatives. Over the past few years, Tehran Municipality has focused on urban projects that incorporate tourism development, ensuring that these efforts align with broader goals for urban revitalization and livability. Fatemi explained that each new urban project, from parks to cultural landmarks, serves as a catalyst for tourism growth, creating new capacities for attracting visitors.

Particularly in the western districts of Tehran, there has been a noticeable boom in urban tours and activities, with locals showing an increasing enthusiasm for exploring their own city. These efforts have been met with a positive reception, signaling that the integration of tourism into urban development has the potential to invigorate the city’s cultural and economic fabric.

Fatemi expressed optimism about the city’s future, stating that the municipality’s initiatives would continue to expand, eventually reaching all corners of Tehran. The goal is to ensure that the city evolves into a destination where tourists can enjoy not only the rich cultural heritage of the capital but also modern urban amenities that enhance the visitor experience.

A Rich History and Cultural Heritage for Visitors
Tehran’s journey toward becoming a premier tourist destination is supported by its deep historical roots and diverse cultural offerings. The city, once a small village north of Rey, has a rich history that dates back over a millennium. Rey, often considered the predecessor of Tehran, was once the capital of the Seljuk Empire in the 11th century before its decline during the Mongol invasion. Tehran, although historically less prominent than other cities in Iran, has evolved into a bustling metropolis with a range of historical, cultural, and artistic attractions.

Visitors to Tehran are greeted by a variety of must-see destinations, which highlight the city’s rich heritage and dynamic modern culture. Among the top attractions is the Golestan Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its intricate architecture and beautiful gardens. The Grand Bazaar offers a vibrant marketplace experience, where tourists can shop for Persian carpets, spices, and unique handicrafts. The Treasury of National Jewels houses one of the most impressive collections of precious gems and historical artifacts in the world, while the National Museum of Iran showcases Iran’s ancient history through its vast collection of artifacts.

For art lovers, Tehran is home to the Tehran Museum of Contemporary Art, which boasts a collection of works by both Iranian and international artists. The Glass & Ceramic Museum displays delicate Persian pottery, and the Carpet Museum of Iran provides an in-depth look at the artistry behind Persian carpets, an iconic symbol of the country’s cultural heritage.

The Sarkis Cathedral, one of the oldest Christian churches in Tehran, offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s diverse religious history. These cultural landmarks, alongside newer urban developments, reflect Tehran’s balance of tradition and progress, making it an appealing destination for tourists seeking both history and modernity.

The Role of Tourism in Urban Growth and Sustainability
Fatemi’s vision for Tehran is not only about attracting tourists but also ensuring that tourism contributes to the sustainable development of the city. Urban tourism is seen as a key tool in enhancing the city’s infrastructure, promoting local businesses, and providing new job opportunities for residents. This holistic approach to tourism development is designed to create a symbiotic relationship between tourists and locals, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are widely distributed and support the city’s overall growth.

The emphasis on sustainable tourism is reflected in the JTA’s initiatives to integrate environmental considerations into urban planning, ensuring that tourism growth does not come at the expense of Tehran’s natural resources or the quality of life of its residents. The city is focusing on creating eco-friendly infrastructure, enhancing public spaces, and promoting responsible tourism practices that will ensure the capital remains livable while simultaneously becoming an appealing destination for visitors from around the world.

Future Outlook: A Thriving, Tourist-Friendly Tehran

While Tehran continues to develop tourist infrastructure, it should be noted that the city is on its way to becoming a flourishing destination for international and local tourists. As Tehran boasts a rich cultural background, it enjoys a unique combination of its rich historical background and modern developments. As urban tours and developments continue to gain popularity, Tehran should be among the premier destinations on the tourist map.

The transition from a city of work to a “city of life and tourism” can be understood as a metamorphosis that will change the image of Tehran at the global level. The rising trend of tourism in Tehran will result in an increase in cultural interactions and will be an important source for developing Tehran at various levels and thus will bring a bright future for its people