Starting from Sunday, February 04 citizens of India and five Gulf countries will benefit from a new visa-free travel policy to enter Iran, marking a significant shift in Iran’s approach to tourism and international relations.
Iran Visa Waiver for India and Other Countries
Visa-free entry for Indians: Indian passport holders, both ordinary and diplomatic, can now visit Iran for tourism purposes visa-free.
Duration of stay: You can enjoy a stay of up to 15 non-extendable days per visit, with a mandatory gap of six months between visits.
Other eligible countries: This visa waiver applies to nationals of 28 countries, including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tunisia, and many more.
Gulf Nationals Eligible for Visa Waiver
According to Iranian Ambassador to Kuwait Mohammad Toutounchi, nationals from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar will no longer require a tourist visa to visit Iran.
This decision comes as part of a broader initiative extending visa-free travel privileges to citizens of 28 countries. Omani passport holders already enjoy this exemption.
Inclusive Measures for Various Nationalities
The visa waiver encompasses a diverse range of nations, including India, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tunisia, and others. Notably, holders of ordinary and diplomatic passports from these countries are eligible for the visa-free travel arrangement.
Terms and Conditions of Travel
Under the new policy, visitors can enter Iran for tourism purposes every six months and stay for a maximum of 15 non-extendable days per visit. This provision aims to encourage tourism while ensuring administrative clarity.
Iran’s Message to the World
Iranian Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, Ezzatollah Zarghami, described the visa-free decision as a global message of welcome from Iran.
The move underscores Iran’s commitment to enhancing tourism infrastructure and dispelling negative perceptions, particularly regarding what Zarghami termed “Iranophobia perpetuated by the global arrogance system.”
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties
The announcement coincides with recent efforts to mend diplomatic relations between Iran and Gulf countries. Last March, Saudi Arabia and Iran, with the mediation of China, agreed to re-establish diplomatic ties after years of estrangement.
Conclusion
Iran’s decision to offer visa-free travel to citizens of GCC countries and India reflects its strategic aim to boost tourism and foster international goodwill. This policy shift not only facilitates easier travel but also signals a broader diplomatic recalibration in the region.
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