In February 2025, a decree came into effect eliminating the visa requirement for flights between Tajikistan and Iran to all cities. How has this change impacted tourism statistics?
The memorandum abolishing the visa regime between the two countries was signed during a visit by former Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to Tajikistan in November 2023. In the summer of 2024, the necessary documents were prepared and approved by the parliaments of both nations. As a result, the visa requirement between Dushanbe and Tehran was lifted on August 10, 2024.
On February 3, 2025, the decree extending the visa-free regime to all cities took effect, allowing citizens with ordinary passports for foreign travels from both countries to stay within each other's borders without a visa for up to 30 days within a 90-day period. However, it's important to note that this visa exemption only applies to air travel. Travelers crossing land borders or using third countries still need to obtain a visa.
Impact on tourism
According to data provided by the Tourism Development Committee under the Government of Tajikistan, the number of Iranian tourists visiting Tajikistan saw a significant rise in 2025 compared to 2024. In 2024, 6,804 Iranian tourists visited Tajikistan, whereas in 2025, this number increased to 11,866, marking a rise of 5,062 tourists, or 74.3%. As a result, Iran ranked 8th among the top 20 countries in terms of the number of tourists arriving in Tajikistan, with Uzbekistan holding the top spot.
There was also an increase in the number of Tajik citizens traveling to Iran for tourism purposes. In 2024, 678 Tajiks visited Iran, while in 2025, the number rose to 938, a 38.35% increase, or 260 additional travelers.
Decline in airfare prices
This year, it was reported that airfare prices for both domestic and international flights to Tajikistan have decreased, including flights to Iran.
The cost of tickets has fallen by 25–30%, a development that was made possible by a 40% discount on airport services granted to airlines operating in Tajikistan. Additionally, the increase in the number of flights as part of the "open skies" policy contributed to the price reductions.
Habibullo Nazarzoda, Director of the Civil Aviation Agency of Tajikistan, emphasized that these changes were instrumental in making travel more accessible and boosting tourism between Tajikistan and Iran.
