Analysis of the interaction between Migration and Tourism: A Case Study of Afghan Migrants in Iran

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Department of Political Science and International Relations, Faculty of Law and Political Science, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran

10.22080/jtpd.2026.30631.4056

Abstract

Context and Purpose: Given the growing interconnection between migration and tourism, this study explores the role of Afghan immigrants in promoting sustainable tourism development in Iran. By focusing on their cultural, religious, health, commercial, and academic capacities, the research seeks to provide an interdisciplinary framework for redefining migration–tourism policies.

Design/methodology/approach: The study employs a descriptive–analytical and qualitative design within an interdisciplinary framework combining tourism and political science. Data were collected from library sources, official statistics, and international studies, and analyzed through the conceptual lenses of sustainable tourism and diaspora tourism to identify both the potentials and challenges in the migration–tourism nexus in Iran.

Findings: Results indicate that Afghan immigrants, owing to their linguistic, cultural, and religious affinities with Iranian society, possess significant potential to strengthen sustainable tourism. They can act not only as consumers of tourism services but also as cultural agents, local entrepreneurs, and social connectors contributing to Iran’s tourism development. However, insufficient policy attention has limited the effective utilization of these capacities.

Conclusion: The study emphasizes the need for coherent policymaking between Iran’s migration and tourism sectors. Developing joint educational and cultural programs, supporting migrant-led entrepreneurship, and expanding religious and medical tourism are among the key practical recommendations for achieving migration-based sustainable tourism.

Originality/value: This research provides a systematic analysis of the Afghan migration–tourism nexus, introducing an innovative interdisciplinary synthesis of sustainable tourism and diaspora theory as a novel framework for understanding migrant-driven tourism in Iran and the broader region.

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Main Subjects

Journal of Tourism Planning and Development
Volume 15, Issue 57
June 2026
Pages 7-27

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