Iran is taking a bold step in shaping the future of global tourism through artificial intelligence (AI). At the 26th General Assembly of the UN Tourism in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Reza Salehi-Amiri, Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, introduced a pioneering project — the Global Tourism Innovation Network (GTIN). This AI-driven platform aims to foster innovation and sustainability in the travel industry by connecting member nations, enabling them to share knowledge, data, and expertise.
The initiative reflects Iran’s commitment to positioning itself as a leader in sustainable tourism development while supporting technology-based cooperation between nations.
Strengthening Regional Tourism Cooperation
During his address, Salehi-Amiri praised the Saudi government for hosting the assembly and highlighted the importance of regional partnerships. He emphasized that collaboration between neighboring countries can enhance tourism infrastructure and cultural ties, paving the way for shared prosperity.
Such alliances are crucial for creating a unified tourism ecosystem in the Middle East, promoting investment opportunities, and building stronger cultural connections among regional players. This cooperative model ensures that tourism growth benefits both local communities and regional economies.
Promoting Ethics and Human-Centered Technology
Iran’s tourism vision goes beyond economic goals. It seeks to place human values at the center of technological progress. Salehi-Amiri underscored this point by referencing the Cyrus Cylinder — an ancient Persian artifact that symbolizes peace, respect, and humanity.
Iran’s proposal advocates for a universal tourism ethics framework rooted in cultural respect and human welfare. The minister clarified that AI should enhance human creativity rather than replace it. This approach aims to balance innovation with compassion, ensuring technology serves people and preserves cultural identity.
Iran’s emerging AI ecosystem in tourism already includes tools for smart reservations, traveler behavior analysis, and personalized content creation. These advancements reflect Iran’s growing community of startups dedicated to integrating AI in a way that supports both travelers and industry professionals.
Iran’s Tourism Growth and Global Appeal
Iran’s tourism sector has experienced impressive momentum in recent years. According to official figures, the nation generated around $7.4 billion from foreign visitors in the Persian calendar year ending March 2025. Over 7 million international tourists arrived during this period — evidence of Iran’s rising status as a global travel destination.
While neighboring Iraq remains the largest source of visitors, Iran is now working to expand its reach to international markets. The country’s 29 UNESCO World Heritage Sites — from the ancient ruins of Persepolis to the historic bazaars and mosques of Isfahan — are key attractions for travelers seeking culture and authenticity.
Iran’s growing hospitality infrastructure and the warmth of its people make it a preferred destination for tourists seeking deep cultural immersion. The Ministry of Tourism continues to promote initiatives that enhance visitor experiences while safeguarding the nation’s heritage and environment.
Technology as the Cornerstone of Iran’s Tourism Vision
Technology plays a central role in Iran’s tourism strategy. The nation’s focus on AI-driven innovation highlights its ambition to merge tradition with modernity. Through the proposed GTIN, Iran envisions a digital ecosystem that empowers countries to collaborate and innovate collectively.
This platform will facilitate shared research, sustainable tourism models, and smart data management to optimize tourist experiences globally. Iran’s approach emphasizes that technology should support the human aspect of travel — helping tourists explore responsibly while fostering deeper cultural understanding.
By prioritizing sustainability and efficiency, Iran hopes to set new global standards in responsible tourism management.
Economic Opportunities Through Tourism Innovation
Tourism remains one of Iran’s most dynamic sectors, with significant potential for growth. The $7.4 billion revenue recorded last year underscores how critical the industry is to the national economy. The government’s continued investment in infrastructure, air connectivity, and digital transformation is expected to boost these numbers even further.
Iran’s natural beauty — from lush forests and snow-capped mountains to vast deserts — complements its cultural wealth. These assets attract travelers from across the world, particularly those seeking unique and authentic experiences.
The integration of AI tools will streamline operations, improve marketing, and enhance decision-making, ensuring visitors enjoy seamless, personalized journeys. This synergy between technology and tradition positions Iran as a model for future-oriented, sustainable tourism.
Building the Future of Global Tourism
Iran’s AI-based Global Tourism Innovation Network represents a forward-looking vision for the tourism industry. By promoting international collaboration, the initiative encourages shared growth and innovation. Member nations will benefit from joint research, training, and access to data-driven insights that can help shape sustainable tourism strategies worldwide.
Beyond technology, Iran’s vision is deeply rooted in cultural diplomacy and human connection. By combining innovation with ethical values, the country seeks to redefine tourism as a force for peace, understanding, and shared prosperity.
As nations worldwide explore the intersection of AI and tourism, Iran’s leadership in this domain signals a new era — one where innovation empowers people, protects heritage, and drives global unity through responsible travel.
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