Islamic and Halal Tourism in Iran

Worldwide growth in both the Muslim middle class and younger generation has resulted in Islamic tourism becoming a significant global market segment, and a key growth sector for the economies of Islamic countries. The 121 million Muslim tourists of 2016 were expected to be 156 million in 2020, whereas the total spendings of US $220 billion of Muslim tourists will reach in 2026, $300 billion. This chapter focuses on Iran as one of the important Muslim-friendly destinations. With Islamic principles already in place, Iran is aiming to become a world hub for Islamic or halal tourism, while meeting new challenges and pursuing creative alternatives.