Posted on December 8, 2025
By: Paramita Sarkar
In a strategic move to enhance bilateral ties and expand tourism opportunities, Iran and Oman are focusing on cooperation in marine tourism, health tourism and cultural exchange. This cooperation aligns with Iran’s broader national strategy to develop its blue economy and activate the tourism potential of the Persian Gulf. The announcement was made on the sidelines of the United Nations General Tourism Assembly held in Riyadh in November 2025, where Seyed Reza Salehi Amiri, Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Crafts of Iran, and Salem bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Minister of Heritage and Tourism of Oman, discussed their vision for a strong tourism partnership.
The 5Ws and 1H of Iran-Oman cooperation
What is happening?
Iran and Oman have agreed on a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing cooperation in marine tourism, health tourism and cultural exchange. These initiatives aim to create a cohesive tourism corridor between the two nations, taking advantage of their proximity across the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic maritime route in the Persian Gulf.
Why is this important?
Collaboration is crucial for several reasons. First, it directly supports Iran’s efforts to develop its blue economy, making marine tourism a central pillar of the national strategy. Secondly, Oman’s important role as a maritime hub, with more than 40 ports and access to three seas, puts it in a privileged position to participate in cruise tourism and maritime passenger exchanges with Iran. This partnership aims to unlock untapped tourism potential, offering new opportunities for cultural exchange and economic collaboration.
When did this agreement take place?
The agreement between Iran and Oman was discussed during the UN General Tourism Assembly in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in November 2025. Both countries have committed to advancing their cooperation in the coming months, with concrete measures planned for 2026.
Where will this cooperation take place?
The main areas of cooperation will cover the entire Persian Gulf, where Iran and Oman are located. The partnership will focus on maritime and cruise tourism, facilitating direct flights and promoting health tourism between the capitals of Tehran and Muscat. Reciprocal tourist exhibitions and joint cultural events will be held in both countries, with Tehran and Muscat being the centers of these initiatives.
How will this agreement benefit both countries?
This agreement promises a host of benefits. For Iran, it supports the activation of coastal tourism capabilities and the promotion of health tourism. Iran’s strong healthcare system, which includes more than 1,000 hospitals and a network of medical specialists, offers high-quality and affordable medical services to Omani tourists. On the other hand, Oman benefits by improving its maritime capabilities and strengthening its position as a key player in the regional cruise tourism industry.
Additionally, the two countries are committed to increasing direct flight connectivity. Iran has proposed increasing the number of direct flights between Tehran and Muscat from the current 12 per week to 60 per week. This expansion will facilitate travel and significantly increase tourist traffic, further strengthening ties between the two nations.
What’s next for this deal?
Both ministers agreed to establish a joint working group to implement these initiatives. The group will focus on executing agreements in marine tourism, health tourism and cultural exchange, ensuring that both parties benefit from the collaboration. The Iranian government sees this partnership with Oman as a model for broader regional cooperation, highlighting the potential for stability and economic development in the Persian Gulf.
Cooperation details:
Nautical and Cruise Tourism:
The core of the agreement focuses on marine tourism. Both ministers expressed a shared commitment to developing cruise tourism, and Oman is set to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to begin maritime passenger exchanges with Iran. This initiative is expected to result in a significant increase in the number of ships arriving at Iranian ports, activating coastal tourism and generating economic benefits for both nations. Air connectivity and joint promotions:
Another significant aspect of the agreement is the increase in direct flights between both countries. The proposal to increase the number of flights from 12 to 60 per week is expected to reduce travel time and significantly increase the number of tourists. In addition, both nations will organize reciprocal tourist exhibitions and joint cultural events to showcase their tourism offerings and strengthen bilateral ties. Health Tourism:
Iran’s well-established healthcare system is a key strength in attracting tourists from Oman seeking affordable and high-quality medical services. With more than 1,000 hospitals and an extensive network of medical professionals, Iran has positioned itself as a leading destination for health tourism in the region. This partnership is expected to enhance cooperation in this area as Oman shows great interest in Iran’s health services.
Conclusion: a new chapter in regional cooperation
The Iran-Oman agreement marks an important milestone in the tourism development of the Persian Gulf. With a focus on marine tourism, health services and cultural exchanges, this collaboration has the potential to transform the region’s tourism landscape. By leveraging their geographical proximity and shared cultural heritage, Iran and Oman are setting a strong precedent for regional cooperation, stability and economic growth in the years to come. The expansion of tourism in these sectors is expected to boost the economic prosperity of both countries and strengthen their diplomatic relations, ensuring a vibrant future for the region.
