The Fars provincial tourism coordination deputy announced that a comprehensive tourism plan covering 21 cities in the province will be developed with the involvement of municipalities by the end of the year.
Speaking to local tourism stakeholders, Mehdi Parsaei highlighted that the province’s tourism development roadmap dates back to studies conducted by Shiraz University in the early 2000s, and was ultimately finalized during the current administration.
He emphasized the province’s unique tourism potential and stated that human resource development is key, as trained individuals are both drivers and beneficiaries of sustainable tourism growth.
Parsaei stressed that education must span all sectors, from taxi drivers and housewives to students, government officials, and private sector professionals. The tourism development plan has been communicated to all relevant agencies, with each expected to play an active role in its implementation.
He noted that the plan goes beyond Shiraz, mapping tourism potential across the 21 selected cities, which will complement broader provincial tourism initiatives.
Since March, the deputy’s office has hosted monthly tourism events, including international cultural gatherings, to strengthen Iran’s tourism image.
Addressing investment, Parsaei acknowledged existing legal overlaps and barriers but pledged reforms to facilitate private sector participation.
He underlined that leveraging local capacities and youth talent can enhance foreign tourism and ensure the benefits of tourism development reach Fars residents.
