One of the most important questions for travelers interested in eastern countries and especially in the Middle East, is the destination’s safety. Iran is a special country with a wide range of natural features and different cultures. Therefore, due to its tourism potential, Iran is considered as a great destination for foreign tourists. In addition, visiting Iran is financially affordable for most people around the world because of devaluation of Iranian currency. But the most essential question which crosses the minds would be: Is Iran safe to Travel in 2023?

Quotes on Iran’s Safety 

Is Iran a safe destination? 

Updated AUG 2023

In order to get a certain answer to this question, you can simply search what previous visitors say about Iran on internet. The clear information would be found in travel forums. Iran is an enchanting destination, filled with history, culture, and hospitality. While safety is always a priority when traveling, Iran offers a memorable experience for those who are well-prepared and informed.

Forget about the messages of government offices or widespread propaganda on media …. it’s all politic and not based on facts, you know!  The internet seems to go from the extreme positive, claiming there is no problem at all, to the extreme negative, like you must be mad for even thinking about travel to Iran!

Off course due to global political issues, Iran is under heaviest sanctions of all time. That is why there is a lot of negative media propaganda against Iran. There are many negative opinions about this country all over the world and many tourists forget the fact that all these arguments are between governments, not the people.
One of the most important factors that has always attracted visitors is the Iranian hospitality. Many western visitors do not have a correct view of Islam due to negative propaganda and are unaware of Iranian attitude towards guests.

Crime in Iran

When choosing a destination for travel, the first thing that comes to your mind is whether it is safe. Security has many aspects, from street crime to political instability. Street crime is present in almost all tourist destinations around the world. While many tourist destinations have problems with petty crimes like theft or pick-pocketing, it is interesting to know that Iran has one of the lowest crime statistics. Of course, you should always be cautious in a metropolis such as Tehran, the capital of Iran.

Civil Unrest in Iran 

Is civil unrest an ongoing issue in Iran? Fortunately, there is currently no civil unrest in Iran.

A social protest, also known as a protest or demonstration, is a collective expression of dissent or disapproval by a group of people against a particular issue, policy, or situation. Social protests, especially among academics and educated people, have always existed and will continue to exist. Basically, the existence of these protests, is one of the signs of political and social maturity in a country – Iran is no exception to this rule.

Sometimes political, social and economic demands lead to social protests, which make the country involved in some restrictions. It is a form of public action where individuals or groups come together to voice their concerns, demand change, or advocate for specific social, political, economic, or environmental issues. The social protests are inevitable everywhere in the world. It is possible that with an economic change such as an increase in the fuel price or an increase in taxes, protests may be observed in the major cities of a country; which normally accompanied The presence of the police.

Fortunately, there is currently no civil unrest in Iran. Even in the past, most of the unrest was seen in Tehran’s universities and cultural centers. But if you find yourself in such situation, you must take the following precautions into account:

• Do not knowingly enter into any protest or civil demonstration
• Avoid photography. Do not take any picture from the protesters
• Avoid large groups of people, especially when political unrest seems to be brewing

Kidnapping in Iran 

Iran is one of the countries in which the lowest number of kidnappings have been reported. When you travel to Iran, the first thing that attracts you is the hospitality and kindness of the citizens of this country. If you refer to the real travelogues and YouTube videos published by those who have traveled to Iran before, you will realize that Iran is one of the safest tourist destinations in the world.

Also Read : Iran Travel Tips 2023 

How Safe is Iran for Tourists? 

You can experience the reality by traveling to Iran. Don’t listen to what the mainstream of US media says about Iran. Travel to Iran, and enjoy a few thousand years of culture and civilization alongside hospitable people.

According to “Independent”, the results of a new study show that Iran’s safety can be compared to European countries and is among the safest countries in the world- listed next to Britain, Slovenia, Denmark and Switzerland. read the full article here

Two international institutions called ” Control Risk” and “International SOS” have worked together to develop a map called “2019 Travel Risk Map” that highlights the level of risk that travelers in any country or political territory may face.
Political threats (including terrorism, civil protests, riots and wars), social unrest (including ethnic and sectarian violence) and street crimes are among the risks considered in this study.

The quality of public transport infrastructure, the state of industrial relations, the efficiency of security and emergency services, and the rate of vulnerability to natural disasters have also been factors that have helped “International SOS” and “Control Risk” to verify the safety level of the countries for travel.
The map prepared by these two institutions classifies the travel risk of different countries in five levels: Insignificant, Low, Medium, High and Extreme. Very few countries have been classified as Insignificant Risk in terms of travel security. Luxembourg, Denmark, Slovenia, Switzerland, Norway, Finland, Greenland and Iceland are the only countries in this category from the European continent.
By contrast, most European countries, including the United Kingdom, are listed as “low risk” destinations, and interestingly, Iran, Jordan, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia and Uzbekistan are ranked among the same category respectively. Canada, America, Australia and New Zealand are also Low Risk.
According to this map, countries with high or extreme risk are almost entirely from Africa and the Middle East. Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, Mali, South Sudan and Somalia are among the top ten countries in the category of “extreme-risk”.

According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Iran is ranked among the top 10 countries in the world in tourism. The UNWTO publishes this list three times a year as part of the World Tourism Assessment. In this survey, tourism is measured both on the basis of the number of tourists and on the basis of its profits, and Iran is ranked fifth in the natural attractions and 10th in the cultural-historical attractions in this list.

Also Read : Iran’s top ten places to visit

Is Iran safe for solo female travelers ?

While in Iran,  all female travelers are required to follow the Iranian dress code that means wearing a headscarf and types of clothing that cover the body -such as trousers and manteau (tunic) but there is no rule about the color of the dress and scarf. There is also gender segregation of some public transport such as city buses.

Apart from the dress code, the rest is quite the same as home and women will generally have no issues when it comes to safety.

Like many other places in the world, it is likely that during your trip you come across sexual harassment at some point. Most men in Iran will treat you with respect, but the guidelines on sexual harassment are almost the same as in most countries when you travel alone as a woman.

Is Iran Safe for British or American Tourists?

Yes. Us citizens or British can travel to Iran in a planned tour format with no problem. US, British and Canadian nationals will need to have a set itinerary and a certificated tour guide beforehand.

Sticking to the itinerary is part of the conditions of visa approval, so sticking to the itinerary and the instructions of the tour guide will ensure that there are no problems.

Also Read : How to get Iran Visa Online 

Walter Greenfield, England

David Billard, USA

Iran Safety Precautions and Travel Tips

Traveling to Iran requires some specific safety precautions to ensure a smooth journey. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

Obtain a Valid Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a must for any international trip, and Iran is no exception. Make sure your insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and theft or loss of belongings.

Respect Local Customs and Traditions

Iran has a rich cultural heritage, and respecting local customs is crucial. Dress modestly, especially in religious sites, and be mindful of social norms to avoid unintentionally offending anyone.  Also Read : Religions in Iran 

Stay Informed About the Political Situation

While Iran is generally safe, it’s wise to stay informed about the political climate before and during your trip. Monitor travel advisories issued by your government and relevant authorities.

Use Reliable Transportation and Accommodation

Choose reputable transportation options and accommodation to ensure your safety and comfort. Research and read reviews from fellow travelers before making any bookings.

Stay Vigilant in Crowded Areas

As with any crowded destination, be cautious of pickpockets and petty theft. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying expensive items in public such is in a Metro.

Learn Some Basic Phrases in Farsi

While English is spoken in major cities, knowing a few basic phrases in Farsi will enhance your travel experience and make interactions with locals more enjoyable.

Be Cautious When Photographing

Iran is picturesque, but be cautious when taking photographs, especially in sensitive areas. Ask for permission if you plan to photograph individuals, and avoid capturing military or government buildings.

Is Iran Safe? – FAQs

Q: Is Iran safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Iran is generally safe for solo female travelers. Women are respected, and the local culture encourages hospitality towards visitors. However, it’s essential to dress modestly and be vigilant, as with any destination.

Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Iran?

Yes, most nationals need a visa to enter Iran. Ensure you obtain the appropriate visa before your trip. Online Iran visa application

Q: What is the best time to visit Iran?

Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit Iran. The weather is mild and pleasant during these seasons.

Q: Can I use credit cards in Iran?

No, Due to the US sanctions, Iran is a cash-based society. Credit cards issued outside the country are not accepted. Bring sufficient cash in Iranian currency (Iranian Rial) for your expenses.

Q: Are there any specific dress code requirements for travelers?

While there are no specific dress code requirements for tourists, it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially in religious places. Women should cover their hair with a scarf.

Q: How safe is the transportation system in Iran?

Iran has a reliable transportation system, including buses, trains, and domestic flights. However, exercise caution and choose reputable providers for your travels.