Taliban Government Actively Courts Tourists to Revitalize Afghan Economy

KABUL, Afghanistan – Despite its international isolation, Afghanistan under Taliban rule is actively pushing to develop its tourism sector, with foreign visitors slowly beginning to trickle into the country. The Taliban government, which seized power over three years ago, is openly welcoming travelers, viewing tourism as a crucial pathway to economic recovery.

Deputy Minister of Tourism Qudratullah Jamal confirmed in an early June interview that the government is eager to host tourists, emphasizing the economic benefits. “Tourism brings many benefits to a country. We have considered those benefits and aim for our nation to take full advantage of them,” Jamal stated, highlighting the potential for significant revenue generation that can reach various levels of society.

While still a modest flow, visitor numbers are on the rise, with nearly 3,000 foreign tourists visiting Afghanistan in the first three months of 2025. This follows almost 9,000 visitors in the entirety of the previous year. The government has streamlined visa processes and even established a training institute for men entering the hospitality sector.

The push for tourism comes amidst ongoing international concerns regarding the Taliban’s human rights record, particularly restrictions on women and girls. Critics question the ethics of leisure travel to a country where such policies are enforced. However, some visitors argue their presence supports the local population directly, rather than the government, and allows them to witness the situation firsthand.

Security remains a factor, despite the end of the two-decade insurgency. A May 2024 attack in Bamiyan, which killed six including three Spanish tourists, underscores the lingering risks. Nevertheless, the government asserts “comprehensive security across Afghanistan” and seeks to use tourism to build international understanding and cultural exchange.

阅读中文版 (Read Chinese Version)

Disclaimer: This content is aggregated from public sources online. Please verify information independently. If you believe your rights have been infringed, contact us for removal.