Afghanistan Times
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KABUL – A growing number of foreign tourists are venturing into Taliban-ruled Afghanistan, lured by its dramatic landscapes, ancient heritage, and promises of security, as the Islamic Emirate launches an aggressive push to revive tourism and project a softer image to the world. From solo cyclists to camper van nomads, nearly 3,000 tourists have already visited in the first three months of 2025, adding to the 9,000 who came last year, according to Taliban officials.
“We want the world to see the true face of Afghanistan—its culture, history, and hospitality,” said Deputy Minister of Tourism Qudratullah Jamal, calling tourism a key pillar for boosting the war-torn country’s fragile economy. Easy visas, frequent flights from hubs like Dubai and Istanbul, and a new hospitality institute for men signal the regime’s intent to turn the trickle into a wave.
But this emerging tourist scene sits uncomfortably against the backdrop of severe human rights abuses, particularly against women. Girls are banned from secondary schools and universities, women are barred from parks and most jobs, and face-covering laws are strictly enforced for locals—though relaxed for foreigners. Critics argue the regime is exploiting tourism to mask its repressive governance and gain de facto legitimacy, even as Western governments continue to warn against travel to the country.
While some travelers justify their trips as a way to support ordinary Afghans—putting money in the hands of drivers, guides, and local vendors—others admit grappling with the ethical dilemma. “Some things didn’t feel morally right,” said Illary Gomez, a French-Peruvian traveler, who drove through the country with her British partner. “But the people we met were incredibly warm.”
Despite a drop in large-scale violence since the Taliban’s 2021 takeover, security risks remain. In May 2024, gunmen linked to the Islamic State group killed six people, including three Spanish tourists, in Bamiyan, home to the destroyed Buddha statues and a growing tourism hotspot.
Still, the Taliban insists the country is safe and open for business. “This is more than just economic development,” Jamal said. “Tourism brings spiritual and political benefits. It builds trust, promotes understanding, and connects our people to the world.”
Whether tourism can truly flourish under a regime accused of gender apartheid remains to be seen—but Afghanistan is once again appearing on adventurous travelers’ maps, for better or worse.
