By: Nadeem Faisal Baiga
ISLAMABAD: Markaz Iran, under the leadership of its President and CEO Yaghoub Ghasemi, has entered into a strategic partnership with Iran’s Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts to co-organise the Iran International Tour Operators Forum (ITF) 2026.
The international tourism forum will be held from October 27 to November 1, 2026, at the Tehran International Exhibition Centre. The event is expected to bring together tour operators, travel agents, hospitality professionals and tourism stakeholders from different countries.
The partnership aims to promote Iran’s rich cultural heritage, historical attractions and diverse tourism opportunities to the international market while creating new business and investment opportunities for the country’s tourism sector.
As principal co-organiser and host, Yaghoub Ghasemi is expected to play a key role in coordinating the event and strengthening cooperation between Iranian tourism institutions and international industry partners. Markaz Iran has developed an extensive international network and works with tourism organisations across Europe, Russia, China and other markets.
The forum will highlight major Iranian attractions, including Persepolis, Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan and the historic city of Yazd. It will also promote Iran’s diverse landscapes, traditional handicrafts, cuisine and cultural heritage.
ITF 2026 will provide a platform for Iranian hospitality providers and international tour operators to develop business partnerships, create specialised travel packages and explore investment opportunities in tourism infrastructure.
According to the organisers, the initiative is designed to support sustainable growth in Iran’s tourism industry and increase international connectivity. The collaboration between the government and private sector is expected to strengthen Iran’s presence in the global tourism market.
Ghasemi said the initiative was aimed at presenting Iran’s authentic culture, hospitality and ancient civilisation to international visitors while creating long-term partnerships within the global travel industry.
The organisers hope ITF 2026 will become an important annual platform for tourism cooperation, cultural exchange and investment, helping position Iran as a major destination for international travellers.
