Under the theme “Reducing Barriers to Economic Growth and Job Creation”, the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2013 assesses 140 economies worldwide based on measures and policies they have in place for a flourishing travel and tourism sector.
The 2013 Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI) reveals that Switzerland, Germany and Austria lead the world in terms of travel and tourism competitiveness, with Spain, United Kingdom, United States, France, Canada, Sweden and Singapore completing the top 10, according to the report released by the World Economic Forum.
Iran’s Position
In 2013, Iran was ranked 98th out of 140 countries, which is 15 places up from the 2011 ranking.
Although the country has not ranked favorably overall, it was ranked first for price competitiveness.
The country ranked above average on Human Resource (education/training and availability of qualified labor), and health and hygiene regulation.
Areas which require the greatest improvement include its tourism infrastructure, followed by air transport and information technology.
MENA Region
Regionally, Iran has been given 11th place, above Kuwait, Algeria, Yemen and Mauritania.
The top two ranking countries in the region are UAE and Qatar.
Although the UAE is not endowed with rich natural resources its competitiveness is primary due to its world-class international hubs for global air travel. Furthermore, the country has carried out effective marketing and branding campaigns and has embraced policy rules and regulations that are conducive to the development of the sector. In particular, the country is open to foreign investments and has a liberal visa regime.
Qatar on the other hand, benefits from a safe and secure environment, good ICT and tourism infrastructures, and excellent air transport infrastructure.
Future Plans Are Encouraging
Iran’s tourism development policy as announced on Saturday during the World Tourism Day 2014, shows promise for Iran’s future global as well as regional ranking. Especially encouraging are its plans to improve access through changes to visa policies, an improved business environment and investment opportunities as well as information technology development plans.
