ABSTRACT
Tourism in Iran has, since the 1970s, been plagued by domestic and regional political instability, and security issues. Tourism marketing and tourism planning have been offered since the beginning and some universities offer graduate programs in ecotourism and religious tourism. Domestic tourism has been the main focus of tourism development since 1979 and especially during the period of international sanctions. The resistive economy has some implications for the tourism industry in Iran. The future for tourism in Iran is a focal point of two different desired futures for the country as a whole. One based on an ultra-conservative interpretation of Shia Islam that grossly represses many human rights and is closed to engagement with much of the contemporary world. The other is grounded in a moderate Shia Islam that is more tolerant and open to the world and that seeks engagement rather than putting up barriers.
