Iran and Pakistan are exploring new ways to make travel easier and attract more tourists.
During a meeting in Tehran, officials from both countries discussed easier group visas, better
transport services, and joint tourism packages. The plans aim to strengthen cultural ties and
create new opportunities for tourism businesses.

The meeting took place on October 17, 2026, between Iranian Deputy Tourism Minister
Anoushirvan Mohseni-Bandpey and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran, Imran Ahmed Siddiqui.
According to the Mehr News Agency, both sides discussed ways to remove travel difficulties and
improve cooperation between their countries.

Ambassador Siddiqui highlighted the shared history and cultural traditions of Iran and Pakistan.
He said many Pakistanis were familiar with Iranian historical places and famous poets such as
Hafez and Saadi. However, he noted that more efforts were needed to introduce Pakistan’s
history and Urdu poetry to Iranian audiences.

Officials also discussed creating joint tours based on the historic Silk Road. These packages
could include historical landmarks, religious destinations, mountain adventures, and medical
tourism. Iran hopes to attract more Pakistani visitors by promoting its specialised hospitals and
healthcare facilities.

Better transport connections were another important topic. The report stated that Iranian airlines
operate eight scheduled weekly flights connecting Tehran and Mashhad with Islamabad,
Lahore, and Karachi. Officials also discussed improving affordable travel options by air, road,
rail, and sea.

Both countries are considering easier group visa applications through approved travel agencies.
Travellers will still need visas, but simpler procedures could make group visits more convenient.
Iran’s eastern provinces, including Khorasan Razavi, Sistan-Baluchestan, and South Khorasan,
were identified as important areas for tourism development and improved border facilities
.
The meeting also covered religious tourism and visits to places such as Mashhad and Qom.
Officials discussed travel arrangements for Pakistani pilgrims heading towards religious sites in
Iraq. Academic exchanges and cultural programmes involving university teachers were also
considered.
Iranian tourism official Moslem Shojaei said authorities were working with travel agencies to
support these plans. He also asked Pakistan to provide a list of approved tour operators and
tourism influencers for joint promotional campaigns.
The proposed steps could help increase tourism and create business opportunities in both
countries. Easier travel may also help visitors discover shared traditions, learn about each
other’s cultures, and build stronger relationships between Iranian and Pakistani communities.
Source: News Agency

Fatima Khan