Marine Tourism in Iran: Legal and Policy Barriers and Lessons from Global Best Practices of Leading Countries

Background and Theoretical Foundation: Iran's extensive coastlines along the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, and the Caspian Sea present a unique opportunity for marine tourism development. Despite the global success of marine tourism in contributing to economic growth through job creation and revenue generation, Iran has not yet fully realized its marine tourism potential. This study investigates the challenges hindering the growth of marine tourism in Iran, identifies key obstacles, and proposes practical solutions based on successful models from leading marine tourism destinations worldwide.Methodology: A descriptive-analytical approach was employed, combining extensive library research and a comprehensive review of legal documents, policy frameworks, and scholarly studies. The objective was to identify and categorize the obstacles impeding marine tourism development in Iran. These challenges were analyzed across legal, investment, infrastructural, cultural, social, and environmental dimensions.Findings: The study identified several interconnected challenges affecting marine tourism development in Iran. Legal and regulatory barriers—including outdated regulations, bureaucratic complexities, and a lack of streamlined processes—hinder investment and sectoral growth. Investment challenges, such as limited access to capital, complex procedures, and perceived risks, restrict the entry of domestic and foreign investors. Infrastructural limitations—including inadequate port facilities, marinas, accommodation, and transportation networks—impede tourism development. Cultural and social barriers, such as low public awareness, conservative norms, and limited community engagement, reduce the acceptance and success of marine tourism initiatives. Environmental challenges—including coastal erosion, pollution, and degradation of marine ecosystems—threaten the sustainability of tourism activities.Conclusion: Lessons from countries such as Spain, France, Italy, Turkey, and the UAE indicate that addressing legal, infrastructural, investment, cultural, and environmental issues is critical. Recommended strategies for Iran include updating legal frameworks, simplifying bureaucratic procedures, enhancing investment incentives, constructing modern infrastructure, promoting community awareness, and implementing effective environmental management programs. By applying these measures, Iran can unlock the full potential of its marine tourism sector, achieving economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.

کلیدواژه ها:

Marine tourism ، development barriers ، comparative study ، Policy solutions