- CEO Markaz Iran Yaghoub Ghasemi to Co-Host Prestigious International Forum, Signaling a New Era for Inbound Tourism
Islamabad – 2026 – In a landmark development for Iran’s tourism sector, Markaz Iran, under the visionary leadership of its President and CEO, Mr. Yaghoub Ghasemi, has entered into a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts of Iran to co-organize the prestigious Iran International Tour Operators Forum (ITF) 2026. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to elevate its tourism industry onto the global stage.
ITF 2026: A Premier Global Conclave for the Travel Industry
The highly anticipated ITF 2026 will take place from October 27 to November 1, 2026, at the Tehran International Exhibition Centre. Recognized as one of the region’s most significant B2B networking events for the travel and hospitality sector, the forum will convene leading tour operators, travel agents, and hospitality professionals from across the globe.
This year’s edition carries enhanced significance as the centerpiece of the newly formalized public-private partnership between Markaz Iran and the Ministry, designed to showcase the depth of Iran’s cultural heritage and historical wealth to an international audience. The forum provides an unparalleled platform for forging business connections, exploring investment opportunities, and presenting Iran’s diverse tourism offerings.
CEO Yaghoub Ghasemi at the Helm of a Historic Initiative
As President of Markaz Iran, Mr. Yaghoub Ghasemi will assume a pivotal role as the principal co-organizer and host of the event, working in direct synergy with government officials. His leadership is instrumental in curating an agenda that bridges the gap between Iran’s ancient heritage and modern tourism infrastructure.
Mr. Ghasemi brings extensive international experience to this initiative. Markaz Iran, under his stewardship, has established itself as a leading tour operator managing approximately half a million tourist arrangements annually and collaborating with some 1,700 tourism organizations across the European Union, Russia, China, and other nations. This impressive network positions the company as an ideal partner to drive international visitor influx to Iran.
“We are not merely organizing an event; we are building a narrative for a new era in Iranian tourism,” stated Mr. Ghasemi. “Through this joint venture with the Ministry of Tourism, Markaz Iran is committed to redefining the global perception of Iran. We are opening our doors to the world, inviting explorers to experience the authenticity, hospitality, and millennia-old civilization that define our nation.”
Elevating Iran’s Heritage on a Global Scale
The core objective of this initiative is to position Iran as an unmissable destination on the international travel map. By combining the Ministry’s regulatory and promotional authority with Markaz Iran’s on-the-ground expertise and extensive global network, the partnership aims to:
- Showcase UNESCO World Heritage Sites and ancient Persian architectural marvels, including Persepolis, Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan, and the ancient city of Yazd
- Facilitate meaningful B2B partnerships between Iranian hospitality providers and international tour operators
- Develop tailored tour packages highlighting Iran’s diverse landscapes, from the Caspian Sea coast to the Persian Gulf, and from the Alborz mountain ranges to the vast Dasht-e Kavir desert
- Promote Iran’s rich cultural tapestry, including its world-renowned handicrafts, culinary traditions, and the peaceful coexistence of diverse religious communities
- Attract investment in Iran’s growing tourism infrastructure
A Vision for Sustainable Growth and Global Connectivity
The ITF 2026 is expected to generate substantial momentum for Iran’s tourism economy, aligning with national development goals and the country’s broader strategy to increase international visitor numbers. Industry observers note that Iran’s tourism sector has been gaining significant international recognition, with the country’s participation in global events such as FITUR in Madrid highlighting the growing familiarity among international travel professionals with Iran’s diverse offerings.
Under the stewardship of Yaghoub Ghasemi, Markaz Iran is dedicated to ensuring that this forum becomes an annual benchmark for excellence, fostering long-term relationships that will drive visitor numbers and economic growth for years to come.
This public-private collaboration follows successful models of cooperation seen in the promotion of Iranian tourism abroad. As Mr. Ghasemi’s previous experience in bringing 700 Iranian tourists to Serbia in a single month demonstrates, Markaz Iran possesses the operational capacity and international connections to deliver tangible results in inbound tourism promotion.
The ITF 2026 represents more than just a forum—it is a statement of intent. As Iran continues to open its doors to international visitors and diversify its tourism offerings, initiatives like this play a pivotal role in reshaping the global perception of the country. By presenting Iran’s authentic experiences, rich traditions, and stunning landscapes through strategic public-private partnerships, Markaz Iran and the Ministry of Tourism invite the world to witness the revival of a timeless destination.With a shared vision for prosperity and cultural exchange, Markaz Iran and the Ministry of Tourism
BY: Nadeem Faisal Baiga
