Published on
August 26, 2025
The northern Iranian province of Semnan is preparing for a big boom in the travel and handicraft industries. Major projects throughout the province will be inaugurated as part of the Government Week festivities, which take place from September 23 to 29. These tourism- and handicraft-focused initiatives are anticipated to be extremely important in boosting the local economy and ensuring that the area’s cultural legacy is preserved for future generations.
This project is an innovative way to improve the area’s tourism infrastructure, with a total investment of more than 1,200 billion rials, or about $1.3 million. The province is well-positioned to make major advancements in both areas, with a primary focus on the development of eco-tourism facilities and handicraft enterprises.
Details of the Projects: A Diverse Range of Developments
The 22 projects span across Semnan’s key cities, including Shahroud, Garmsar, Damghan, Semnan, Mahdishahr, and Sorkheh. Out of these, 17 are dedicated to tourism, while five are focused on promoting the local handicrafts sector. These developments include a wide range of initiatives, from ecotourism accommodations to traditional workshops and artisan shops.
Some of the most anticipated projects include the establishment of eco-tourism residences, traditional guest houses, roadside restaurants, agricultural tourism centres, and specialised handicraft workshops such as pottery and ceramics. These initiatives are not only set to improve the region’s tourism infrastructure but are also expected to create numerous jobs and provide a significant economic boost.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The new projects are expected to generate a total of 225 direct and indirect jobs. Out of these, 158 positions will be in the tourism sector, and 67 will be within the handicrafts sector. These jobs will play a crucial role in reducing unemployment in the region and fostering local economic growth.
By investing in projects that cater to ecotourism, traditional crafts, and agricultural tourism, Semnan is positioning itself as a prime destination for both domestic and international tourists. The influx of visitors will contribute significantly to the local economy through job creation, increased demand for local goods and services, and greater tourism-related revenues.
Where the Projects Are Located: Highlights of the Initiatives
The locations of these new developments are spread throughout Semnan Province, each adding to the unique charm and cultural appeal of the region. Among the projects to be unveiled, a notable one is the ecotourism residence in Kando village, designed to attract nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat.
Shahroud, another key city in the province, will see the launch of six projects, including a guest house, an agricultural tourism centre, an eco-tourism residence, a handicraft store, and two pottery and ceramics workshops. These developments are aimed at blending tourism with the rich traditional culture of the region, offering visitors a chance to experience both the natural beauty and the artisanal craftsmanship of Semnan.
Damghan, a city known for its historical significance, will have five projects inaugurated, such as an eco-tourism residence, a traditional residence, a traditional dining hall, a roadside restaurant, and a handicraft store. These projects are expected to enhance the city’s ability to serve as a cultural hub for tourists exploring the Silk Road.
Garmsar, another city in Semnan, will be home to four eco-tourism residences and a woodturning workshop, creating an experience that integrates nature with local crafts. Similarly, Mahdishahr and Sorkheh will also see the opening of eco-tourism residences, further enhancing the area’s appeal for tourists seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path destinations.
The Significance of the Silk Road in Semnan’s Tourism Strategy
Semnan’s location along the ancient Silk Road is a key factor in its tourism strategy. The Silk Road, which once connected the East and West, is a crucial part of the region’s history and heritage. The province was selected in 2022 to represent Iran in the union of Silk Road cities, a prestigious initiative aimed at promoting tourism along this historic route.
The Silk Road has long been a symbol of cultural exchange, bringing together diverse civilisations through trade, ideas, and cultures. The Silk Road’s influence on the cities and villages along its path is immense, and Semnan is leveraging this historical connection to attract tourists interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of the region.
With the promotion of eco-tourism and handicrafts, Semnan’s tourism offerings are becoming more diversified. These new projects will allow the province to tap into the growing interest in cultural and sustainable tourism, offering visitors an authentic experience of Iran’s ancient heritage and its modern-day crafts.
A Bright Future for Semnan: Sustainability and Cultural Prosperity
The launch of these 22 projects marks a promising new chapter for Semnan Province. Not only will these developments improve the local infrastructure, but they will also contribute to a more sustainable form of tourism that respects the region’s cultural and environmental heritage. As the province becomes more accessible and attractive to tourists, it is poised to see a surge in visitors, both domestic and international.
Additionally, the focus on handicrafts is expected to have a lasting impact on preserving and promoting traditional Iranian crafts, such as pottery, ceramics, and woodturning. These crafts are vital to Semnan’s cultural identity, and the new workshops and stores will ensure that these art forms continue to thrive in the modern era.
A Model for Regional Economic Development
The government’s dedication to sustainable tourism as a means of promoting regional economic development is demonstrated by the launch of these tourism and handicraft initiatives in Semnan Province. Semnan is paving the way for other Iranian provinces hoping to strengthen their local economies while conserving their distinctive cultural legacies by fusing historical heritage, contemporary ecotourism, and traditional crafts.
As these projects are completed, it is anticipated that visitors from all over the world will be drawn to Semnan in order to discover its many attractions, learn about its fascinating Silk Road past, and take in its thriving handicraft culture. Semnan is well-positioned to develop into a significant cultural and economic centre in the area thanks to its investments in handicrafts and tourism.
[Image Source: Visit Iran Official Website]
