Is Iran Safe for Tourists?

The question, “Is Iran safe for tourists?” yields two completely different answers depending on whether you ask a recent traveler or consult a Western government’s official advisory. On one hand, many tourists describe Iran as one of the safest and most hospitable countries they have ever visited, where local crime rates are low and the people are overwhelmingly welcoming. 

The Tourist Experience (Low Crime & High Hospitality)

For most travelers, the immediate, ground-level experience in Iran is overwhelmingly positive, leading many to label Iran as "safe" in the traditional sense of personal security.

✅ Low Rates of Petty Crime

Major tourist hubs like Isfahan, Shiraz, and Yazd are known for being very safe regarding common traveler concerns:

Pickpocketing and Theft: Unlike in many major European cities, tourists rarely report issues with pickpocketing or bag snatching. Locals often take immense pride in the safety of their cities.

Scams: While tourist scams exist, they are less prevalent than in many other major international destinations.

Solo Female Travel: Many solo female travelers report feeling safe and respected. The biggest challenge for women is usually following the strict legal dress code (headscarf and modest attire) rather than crime.

🤗 The Famed Persian Hospitality
Iran’s true safety asset is its people. The famous concept of Taarof (a complex Iranian form of etiquette) means Iranian people go out of their way to be warm, friendly, and helpful to foreign guests.

You are likely to be invited for tea, dinner, or even to a family wedding.

Locals frequently approach travelers simply to welcome them to the country and practice their English.

This intense focus on the honor of hosting often creates a feeling of being watched over, contributing to a high sense of personal security.