Iran Highlights IRAN VIDEO COMPILATION IRAN GENERAL INFORMATION, IRAN VIDEO COMPILATION IRAN https://www.doubledutchworldsafari.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/IRAN%20LOW%20RES%20VOICE.mp4 2. General Information Although tourism declined significantly in previous decades, it has increased somewhat since some sanctions against Iran were lifted in 2015. Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz remain the three major tourist hubs, but Iran has much more to offer—especially for those traveling by car. Most tourists visiting Iran are Muslims who come to the pilgrimage sites in Mashhad and Qom. As a result, Iran has one of the largest domestic tourism sectors in the world. A poor international image, unstable regional conditions, and weak advertising are among the reasons many travelers still avoid visiting Iran. However, for us, both Iran and Pakistan were surprising highlights, full of some of the nicest people we met during our years of traveling around the world. Formerly known as Persia, Iran is the second-largest country in the Middle East and is home to some of the world’s oldest civilizations. In 1963, with support from the United States and the United Kingdom, the Shah launched the White Revolution, which included land reforms, industrial growth, and advancements in women’s rights. However, widespread dissatisfaction with the monarchy culminated in the 1979 Islamic Revolution, leading to the establishment of the Islamic Republic. In the 1980s, Iran fought a long and devastating war with Iraq. Today, Iran is a major supplier of natural gas and holds vast oil reserves. It is also home to 22 UNESCO World Heritage Sites—the third most in Asia and the eleventh most in the world.