Reports indicate that interest from foreign visitors, particularly from China, has grown since the Taliban took control in August 2021, with 7,000 tourists visiting the country in 2023—a remarkable increase of 913% from 2021, according to the Tourism Directorate in Kabul.
Afghanistan, long characterised by years of conflict, is witnessing a shift as the Taliban government promotes tourism in a bid to reshape its global image.
Tourists are sharing their experiences on social media, highlighting the peaceful countryside, welcoming locals, and the cultural heritage, according to reports by South China Morning Post, (SCMP). Visitors have been drawn to the destination’s colourful history, culture and scenic landscapes.
Direct flights to Kabul from cities such as New Delhi and Dubai have resumed, further facilitating travel to the region. A Chinese tour guide based in Afghanistan shared with SCMP the ease of obtaining a visa for Chinese visitors, which can be processed in about seven days, although transportation options can be limited and costly.
Despite the upsurge in tourism, challenges remain. Female tourists face restrictions, requiring them to cover up and avoid certain areas, including popular sites such as Band-e Amir National Park. Additionally, while the security situation has improved, visitors must obtain written permission from the Taliban to visit tourist attractions and document their experiences.
Western nations, including the US, UK, and India, have suspended their diplomatic missions in Afghanistan, making travel from these countries more difficult. In contrast, China has actively engaged with the Taliban, becoming the first nation to appoint an ambassador in 2023.
As Afghanistan seeks to promote its tourism sector, questions arise about whether these efforts represent a genuine opportunity for economic revitalisation or if they risk exploiting the country’s complex realities.