Iran, Islamic Republic Of🇮🇷
Situated in Western Asia, Iran is known as the Islamic Republic of Iran and is the second-largest country in the Middle East. It’s bordering countries include Turkey and Iraq in the west, Afghanistan and Pakistan in the east, and Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia, and Turkmenistan in the north. Iran’s mountainous terrain, stunning landscapes, and historical sites such as The Royal Square in Esfahan garner attraction from around the globe. It is a country rich in history, culture, and traditions, with its prominent Persian heritage reflected in the architecture, food, and the Persian New Year, Norouz. It is unique for its distinct environment, which ranges from desert plains to mountain ranges, offering a highly diverse experience for visitors.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid disrespecting Islamic codes of conduct and dress.
- Avoid nonessential travel to the areas near the borders with Iraq and Afghanistan due to the risk of terror attacks and kidnapping.
- Avoid displaying affection in public, especially between non-married couples, as it is considered taboo.
- Avoid sharing your views about Iran or its politics on social media, where it's heavily monitored.
- Avoid homosexual activity due to severe legal penalties, including possible death sentence.
- Avoid any political discussions, especially on controversial subjects.
- Avoid importing alcohol, drugs, and pork products which are strictly forbidden by law.
- Avoid illegal foreign currency exchange services, which are subjected to severe penalties.
- Avoid traveling by car at night, especially in remote areas, due to poor road safety and the risk of banditry.
- Avoid dealing with unlicensed tour operators
Overall
5
Crime 🔫
5
Iran's general crime rate is relatively low compared to global standards, but pickpocketing and purse snatching incidents are reported in crowded places like bazaars. Most crimes are petty and opportunistic in nature, rarely involving violence. Drug trafficking is a major crime, particularly around the Afghanistan border. Cities like Bandar Abbas, Kermanshah and Ahvaz have slightly elevated crime rates.
Terrorism 💣
4
Iran has a history of both domestic and international terrorist attacks. These include attacks by Sepah-e-Sahaba (a Sunni extremist group) claiming numerous lives, specifically targeting the ethnic Hazara community. Some areas near Afghanistan and Pakistan borders are particularly vulnerable to terror incidents due to drug-related violence.
War ⚔️
4
With a history marred by the Iran-Iraq War from 1980 to 1988, Iran has faced severe challenges. Although the violent conflict ended decades ago, ongoing political tensions with neighbors and Western countries keep the situation delicate. Border areas, especially near Iraq and Afghanistan, can be risky due to cross-border military activity.
Natural Disasters 🌊
3
Iran is prone to several natural disasters, with earthquakes being the most significant threat. The Bam earthquake in 2003 claimed over 30,000 lives and caused extensive property damage. Besides seismic activity, annual floods in northern Iran, and frequent sandstorms in the southern provinces, pose significant risks.
Medical Care 🏥
6
Iran has a widespread health care system, with public and private sectors that offer a range of services from primary health care to advanced medical treatments. However, facilities and resources might not match Western standards, especially in remote areas. Acquiring specific medications can be challenging due to international sanctions.
Tap Water Quality 💧
6
While the tap water quality is generally good in urban areas and is treated to remove harmful contaminants, concerns about water pollution persist. In some places like Bandar Abbas, the water may be brackish because of the proximity to the sea, and hence not suitable for consumption without proper treatment.
Disease Burden 🤒
6
Iran faces issues with diseases typical in the Middle Eastern region, including brucellosis and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever. In recent years, there have been concerns regarding air pollution in major cities like Tehran leading to widespread pulmonary diseases. The COVID-19 pandemic has also posed significant challenges.
Corruption 💸
4
Corruption remains a significant concern in Iran, impacting various sectors, including the public sector. Notable incidents include Aria Bank scandal in the early 2010s involving around $2.6 billion, showing the depth of corruption in the country's financial and business sectors.
Safety for Women ♀️
5
While women are permitted to travel alone, they are subjected to specific laws regarding dress and conduct due to Iran’s conservative culture. Incidents of violence or harassment against foreign women are rare, but it's recommended to be cautious, particularly in remote or traditional areas.
Safety for Queer People 👬
2
Iran has strict laws and societal norms around homosexuality, making it a potentially hazardous country for the LGBTQ+ community. Any LGBTQ+ activity can be subject to severe legal penalties, including the death penalty, hence safety is a grave concern.
Censorship 📺
3
Iran is known for stringent media censorship to maintain socio-political control. This includes internet censorship with restricted access to social media platforms. Noteworthy incidents include limited information flow during the 2009 presidential election protests, and multiple journalists facing intimidation or imprisonment.
Public Transportation 🚌
7
Iran has a relatively well-developed public transportation system, with inner-city bus and metro services in major cities and inter-city trains across the country. However, road traffic accidents are significantly high, making road travel potentially hazardous.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Iran, while having political instability and social restrictions, generally has decent safety for tourists in controlled environments. Crime is relatively low, and the people are known for their hospitality, but stringent societal norms need to be respected. Behaving against Islamic codes can result in legal trouble. Areas along Iraq and Afghanistan borders should be avoided due to terror risks.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Numerous foreign embassies are located in Tehran, Iran's capital city, including embassies of countries like Australia, Germany, and Russia.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Immunizations for Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Rabies and routine vaccines like Influenza, Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) and Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis are recommended.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Iran is also home to numerous venomous snakes found largely in central and southern areas, scorpions in the desert regions, and there have been occasional reports of leopards in the northern forests. It is advisable to consult local guides while venturing into wilderness.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Visa requirements vary based on nationality, but most individuals need a visa to visit Iran. You may require an approval code from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Some nationalities can apply for a visa-on-arrival but eligibility for this should be confirmed before travel.
💲 Currency
The official currency is the Iranian Rial (IRR), but due to high inflation, often prices are quoted in 'Toman', which is equivalent to ten Rials. It is common to negotiate prices in markets.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Due to sanctions, international credit or debit cards are not accepted in Iran. It is advisable to carry enough cash for the duration of the stay. Local pre-paid debit cards are available for tourists.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Working while traveling in Iran is not common, as it requires distinct work permits and has strict laws, so it is not typically suited for traditional work and travel.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
Comparatively, Iran is a less expensive country for travelers. Costs might vary based on lifestyle standards and region, but generally, food, transport, and accommodation are quite affordable. However, lack of credit card acceptance may mean carrying a larger amount of cash than usual.