Jabbar Salempour, Deputy for Cultural, Social and Tourism Affairs of Arvand Free Zone Organization, highlighted the region’s unique advantages, stating that its multimodal transport network and the international Shalamcheh border crossing make Arvand a key gateway for Iraqi tourists. With effective planning and management, these assets can generate sustainable revenue for the country.
Speaking at a consultative meeting between the Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts and tourism stakeholders in the region, Salempour noted that between 6,000 and 25,000 people cross the Shalamcheh border daily. A significant share of this traffic is associated with health tourism.
He emphasized that strengthening infrastructure, removing barriers and expanding specialized services would enable Arvand to play a greater role in developing health tourism and increasing Iran’s share of the regional market.
Salempour also highlighted the area’s coastal and aquatic attractions as a foundation for diversifying tourism products and stimulating regional economic growth. He stressed that closer cooperation between government agencies and the private sector, alongside stronger government support, would help advance tourism development plans and create new opportunities for the region.
Arvand Has the Potential to Become a Hub for Health and Water-Based Tourism
