FedHATTA initiatives for a strategic restart of the Iranian market for Greece
On the occasion of the visit of the Iranian Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, Mr. Seyed Reza Salehi Amiri, to Greece and the institutional-level meetings held, the Federation of Hellenic Associations of Tourist & Travel Agencies (FedHATTA) explored ways to strategically enhance tourism flows from Iran to Greece.
In this context, the President of FedHATTA, Mr. Lysandros Tsilidis, participated in a working lunch with the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Athens, Mr. Malek Hossein Givzad, during which the return of the Iranian market to Greek tourism was discussed. The President of the Federation referred to ways to strengthen tourism cooperation between the two countries with mutual benefits.
During the meeting, it was noted that the interest of Iranian travelers in Greece remains particularly strong, while it was also recalled that in the past there was significant travel activity, especially during the period when the direct Tehran–Athens flight route operated. In this context, the intention to explore the re-establishment of this route was expressed.
Mr. Tsilidis expressed his active support for these efforts, encouraged the organization of cultural activities and thematic events, and accepted an invitation to participate in the International Tourism Exhibition of Tehran (TITE) in February 2026, with the Iranian side providing hospitality services during the event.
Particular emphasis was also placed on the significant obstacles that Iranian travelers currently face in the visa issuance process for Greece, a matter highlighted as a decisive factor for the further development of the market.
Furthermore, to strengthen bilateral tourism flows, the organization of a mission of Greek tourism professionals to Iran was discussed, including participation by a group of tourism journalists, while promotional material about Iran will also be shared with Greek travel agencies.
The President of FedHATTA, Mr. Lysandros Tsilidis, stated:
“The free movement of ideas and people is a fundamental asset of our era. With full respect for every economic and political process in place internationally, we cannot close our ears to the fundamental right of people to travel more widely around the world, and especially to our country. Particularly when it concerns peoples with a long cultural history, who wish to explore destinations and pass on this experience to future generations. Greece is a chosen destination for travelers from around the world, and facilitating access through visa issuance is a critical issue for the development of tourism.”
These initiatives are part of a broader framework of contacts and collaborations arising from the visit of the Iranian political leadership to Greece and the meetings held with the Greek government, confirming the commitment of all parties involved to a substantial restart of Greece–Iran tourism cooperation.
FedHATTA emphasizes that, as part of its strategy to open new markets, interest is not limited to Iran but also extends to countries such as Egypt, India, Japan, and Armenia, where growing momentum and significant prospects for Greek tourism have been observed.
The Iranian Minister visited Athens last week within the framework of the 9th Ministerial Meeting of the Forum of Ancient Civilizations.
