Soheili village on Qeshm Island has gained international recognition as one of the best tourism villages in the world. Consequently, Soheili village now stands out as a top destination for sustainable and cultural tourism. The United Nations World Tourism Organization selected it as a leading village for 2025.
Azadeh Abedinzadeh, head of the Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department of the Qeshm Free Zone Organization, announced the achievement on Saturday. She praised Soheili village as the unrivaled gem of Hormozgan province. Moreover, she emphasized that the recognition presents a major opportunity for promoting tourism and local culture globally.
In addition, Iran nominated other villages this year, highlighting the country’s growing tourism potential. The Best Tourism Villages initiative by UN Tourism evaluates villages on sustainability, innovation, preservation of cultural heritage, and quality of life. Each country can nominate up to eight villages annually for consideration.
Since joining the initiative in 2021, Iran has actively promoted its villages to international audiences. Therefore, the inclusion of Soheili village marks a significant milestone in these efforts. Local authorities believe the recognition will encourage tourism growth and attract investment to Qeshm Island.
Tourism experts note that international acknowledgment often leads to improved infrastructure, increased visitor numbers, and stronger cultural exchange. Additionally, officials hope Soheili village can serve as a model for sustainable tourism development in the region. They are already planning programs to enhance visitor experiences while preserving local traditions.
Abedinzadeh added that recognition can generate new job opportunities for residents and strengthen the local economy. She also highlighted the importance of balancing tourism growth with environmental conservation. Authorities intend to use the UN’s evaluation criteria to guide development projects in Soheili village.
Furthermore, the announcement carries broader implications for Iran’s tourism sector. Global recognition can improve the country’s image as a destination rich in culture, heritage, and natural beauty. For Qeshm Island, it reinforces its position as a must-visit location for both domestic and international travelers.
Officials plan to host cultural festivals, craft exhibitions, and guided tours in Soheili village in the coming months. These initiatives aim to leverage the international spotlight to attract sustainable tourism and showcase the region’s heritage.
Ultimately, Soheili village is set to become a key player in Iran’s tourism industry. Authorities expect the village to draw increasing attention from global travelers in 2025 and beyond. Consequently, the award marks a significant step toward integrating local culture with international tourism markets.