“Identity-Based Tourism” Book Unveiled: A New Step in Cultural Policy-Making for Free Zones
During the First International Congress on Tourism Economy Development, held on July 2, 2024, at the IRIB Conference Hall with the presence of public and private sector stakeholders, the book Identity-Based Tourism by Dr. Mohammad Farzad Mirzaei Qaleh was officially unveiled.
According to Good News Agency This publication is considered the first comprehensive book to offer a policy-oriented and practical approach to tourism planning. It is fully aligned with the country’s overarching development policies and is deeply rooted in the “Middle Rings of Progress” theory.
According to Mirzaei Qaleh, Director General of Tourism and Cultural Heritage of the Supreme Council of Free Trade Zones and Secretary of the Congress, the book compiles the key tourism and cultural heritage policies implemented in Iran’s free zones over the past two years. It presents a structured framework of 32 policy directives and 65 operational programs that were incorporated into the 2022 and 2023 budgets of the free zones.
He emphasized that these strategies aim not only to preserve the cultural identity of local communities but also to turn that identity into an attractive and tranquil experience for travelers. One example of this approach is the expansion of eco-tourism initiatives in regions like Qeshm and Kish Islands, offering authentic and affordable local experiences.
One of the book’s distinguishing features, Mirzaei noted, is its reliance on the “Middle Rings” theory, which demonstrates how grassroots groups have successfully utilized tourism opportunities to benefit from visitor engagement and economic participation.
He also highlighted a paradigm shift in tourism policy in free zones—from a focus on accommodation to a focus on cultural identity and lifestyle. To support this shift, 13 comprehensive policy guidelines were developed in collaboration with local communities and administrative managers. These guidelines are also included in the book, which was published with the support of the Free Trade and Industrial Zones Publishing House.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by senior officials, industry veterans, and scholars in the field of tourism.
Reporter: Fatemeh Mohagheghi
