International aid diversion under Taliban enforced, alleges American monitor
Tourism Slowly Returns to Afghanistan Under Taliban Rule
After four years of Taliban rule, Afghanistan is beginning to welcome tourists once again. The Taliban government is eager to boost the economy and project an image of stability, and tourism seems to be a promising avenue.
In the past few months, nearly 2,900 foreign nationals have visited Afghanistan, with about 467 citing tourism as their primary reason for travel. This marks a gradual increase in tourist activity, a trend that the Taliban are actively encouraging.
The Taliban have simplified visa processes, promoted direct flights, and even enlisted the help of social media influencers to document their visits. These efforts are intended to improve the tourism industry, making it more accessible for foreign visitors.
Despite international travel advisories strongly discouraging visits, tourism is resuming in Afghanistan. As of mid-2025, around 350 tourism companies are operating in the country. The travel conditions outside Kabul have improved significantly, with infrastructure repairs and reduced conflict in many rural areas, making it easier for tourists to visit historical sites and remote regions.
However, the Taliban's promotion of tourism has raised ethical and human rights concerns. Critics view this as a propaganda effort that contrasts sharply with the severe restrictions imposed on Afghan women and local freedoms. Controversial events, such as visits by foreign influencers, have drawn criticism.
Yet, there are signs of resistance. Afghan women are participating in tourism activities, such as female tour guides leading women-only groups. This indicates a nuanced reality where tourism gains coexist with ongoing repressive policies at home.
The United Nations recently adopted a resolution regarding the Taliban rule in Afghanistan, despite U.S. objections. The resolution is a testament to the international community's ongoing interest and engagement with Afghanistan, despite the challenges posed by the Taliban's rule.
In summary, tourism in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan is cautiously reopening with government support and a small but growing influx of foreign visitors. However, it also raises significant ethical and human rights concerns that the international community must address.
[1] BBC News. (2025). Tourism in Afghanistan: The Taliban's latest push. [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-57343888
[2] Reuters. (2025). Afghanistan tourism: Taliban eases visa rules, promotes direct flights. [online] Available at: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/afghanistan-tourism-taliban-eases-visa-rules-promotes-direct-flights-2025-05-01/
[3] The Guardian. (2025). Taliban's charm offensive: Afghanistan's tourist push. [online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jun/24/talibans-charm-offensive-afghanistans-tourist-push
[4] Al Jazeera. (2025). Afghanistan: Tourism industry slowly rebounding under Taliban rule. [online] Available at: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/7/1/afghanistan-tourism-industry-slowly-rebounding-under-taliban-rule
[5] Associated Press. (2025). Afghan women defy Taliban restrictions, lead tours. [online] Available at: https://apnews.com/article/afghanistan-taliban-women-tourism-culture-285231c11270411022b0c816046f888d
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