Afghanistan’s Tourism Sees 6.2 Million Domestic Visitors in 2025 Despite Challenges
The Taliban’s Ministry of Information and Culture has announced that in the year 1404 of the Solar Hijri calendar (2025), approximately 6.2 million domestic tourists and nearly 10,000 foreign tourists visited the recreational and historical sites across Afghanistan. This statistic comes amid ongoing security challenges and widespread social restrictions affecting Afghanistan’s tourism industry in recent years.
According to the ministry’s newsletter, during the past year, 135 handicraft companies were introduced to various exhibitions free of charge or with discounts. The purpose of this initiative was to support domestic products and strengthen the handicraft market.
Additionally, new licenses were issued to 656 travel and pilgrimage companies, and the activity licenses of another 146 companies were renewed during this period. However, the Taliban administration did not provide details about the criteria for issuing these licenses or the actual level of activity of these companies.
The report further notes that oversight was conducted on 25 guesthouses providing services to tourists, as well as on more than 3,000 travel and pilgrimage companies. Moreover, the visas of 148 foreign tourists were extended last year.
Experts believe that transparency in statistical reporting, infrastructure improvements, and ensuring stable security are essential prerequisites for the genuine growth of the tourism industry in the country. This sector has the potential to play a significant role in creating job opportunities for residents and boosting the local economy.
