As tourism in Isfahan approaches Tourism Week, stakeholders in this field report that incoming and outgoing tours are nearing a halt and that travel service offices are facing difficulties. In this context, Hossein Nasr, a tourism activist and former president of the Isfahan Travel Agencies Association, points to the urgent need for government support for this industry and expresses his concerns about the departure of skilled workers.
Current Challenges in Isfahan's Tourism
Hossein Nasr emphasizes that travel service offices are the bridge between tourists and the destination community, stating that currently, both incoming and outgoing tour sectors have almost come to a standstill, with only domestic tourism remaining active. This tourism activist says: "Measures must be taken to strengthen domestic travel so that stakeholders in this industry can continue their activities."
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According to Nasr, the departure of skilled workers could seriously harm Isfahan's tourism industry. He states: "If tourism is to thrive again, these experienced and skilled individuals must drive the industry's activities forward." He also mentions the necessity of diversifying Isfahan's tourism products, saying: "Isfahan should not be limited to Naqsh-e Jahan Square and palaces. Lesser-known routes and other products such as rural tourism should be considered."
Infrastructure Development and Investment
Amir Kermzadeh, the director general of cultural heritage, tourism, and handicrafts in Isfahan province, also points to the multi-layered challenges of tourism, stating: "Problems began during the COVID-19 pandemic, and subsequently, wartime conditions have also affected this industry." He emphasizes the need to strengthen investment incentives and announces an increase in accommodation capacity in the province.
Kermzadeh states: "In the past three years, a significant amount of facilities has been provided for hotels and accommodation centers, and new centers are being opened." He also refers to the problem of a shortage of tourism transportation fleets, saying: "Even the transportation of domestic passengers is sometimes faced with limitations."
Finally, the director general of cultural heritage in Isfahan province emphasizes the need for balanced travel distribution across the province, stating: "Efforts have been made to introduce various destinations in the province using information technology and cyberspace."
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