Kabul [Afghanistan], March 23 (ANI): Afghanistan experienced a notable rise in foreign visitors during the solar year 1404 (2025), as travelers from around the world explored its historic and cultural sites, Tolonews reported.
Despite years of conflict and ongoing challenges, including security concerns and economic hardship, Afghan officials say the tourism sector is showing signs of recovery. The Ministry of Information and Culture’s spokesperson told Tolonews that more than 9,500 foreign tourists visited Afghanistan’s provinces—known for their rich history and cultural landmarks—during the first eleven months of 1404. Popular destinations included Herat, Kandahar, Bamiyan, Ghazni and Kabul.
Khabib Ghufran, the ministry’s spokesperson, said, “In the year 1404 (solar calendar), tourists visited various provinces and regions of Afghanistan. In the first eleven months alone, their number exceeded 9,500.”
Visitors came from a wide range of countries, including China, Iran, Pakistan, India, Indonesia, Russia, the United States, France, Greece and Germany. Ghufran noted growing international interest in Afghanistan’s ancient sites, historic minarets, fortresses and natural landscapes.
Cultural analysts view the uptick as a hopeful sign for an economy long battered by war and political instability. “Today, tourism plays a very important role in all countries,” Kabul-based cultural analyst Maiwand Faqiri told Tolonews. Economic analysts also see potential for growth but caution that much remains to be done. “Afghanistan is among the countries with the most tourism potential, yet it is also one of those that has not fully utilised these opportunities,” economic analyst Sayed Masoud said, pointing to places like Badakhshan with significant natural attractions that could become top destinations.
Analysts say Afghanistan’s tourism potential stems from its diverse civilizations and cultures, which have left centuries-old archaeological sites and historic cities. However, the industry remains fragile given the broader security situation and restrictions on women’s rights since the Taliban takeover in 2021—factors that have previously deterred international travel.
Still, officials and tourism advocates hope sustained foreign interest can create economic opportunities and help reshape international perceptions of Afghanistan as a country rich in history and cultural heritage. (ANI)
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