Mashhad International Airport serves as a major gateway in northeastern Iran, connecting travelers to one of the country’s most important religious and cultural centers. Located near the city of Mashhad, it handles both domestic flights and international routes primarily serving pilgrims visiting holy sites like the Imam Reza Shrine. The airport provides modern facilities including check-in counters, baggage claim areas, duty-free shops and lounges for passengers. Its operations support tourism, business travel and religious journeys throughout the year.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Iranian Rial (IRR) £1 ≈ IRR 1,756,040 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Foreign credit and debit cards do not work in Iran because of international sanctions, so travellers must bring enough cash (euros or US dollars) to exchange. Locals mostly pay with domestic bank cards, and ride-hailing apps like Snapp are popular.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: | We cannot recommend an eSIM provider for this country. We advise getting a local SIM card. |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in Iran. In restaurants, leaving a small tip of around 5-10% is common. Taxi drivers do not expect tips, but rounding up fares is appreciated. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is illegal in Iran, and alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited. Alcohol is only available in private or special non-public establishments for non-Muslim minorities. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is generally allowed in outdoor public spaces and designated areas, but it is prohibited in many indoor public areas such as shopping centres and restaurants. |
| Nowruz (20 March) |
Iranian New Year, a major holiday celebrated with family gatherings and festivities |
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| Ashura (Varies) |
A religious holiday observed with mourning ceremonies, especially in Shia communities |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 110 (Police), 115 (Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Snapp, Tap30 |
| Other: | Iran is home to a rich history and culture, including ancient sites like Persepolis and Isfahan. Travellers should be aware of the country's conservative social norms and regulations, particularly concerning dress code and behaviour. |
Mashhad International Airport serves as a key gateway to one of Iran’s most important cultural and religious centers. Located near the city of Mashhad in northeastern Iran it connects travelers to both domestic destinations and international locations. The airport handles flights from major cities across Asia Europe and beyond making it an essential hub for people traveling to visit holy sites or explore regional history.
The facility includes modern passenger terminals baggage services and customs areas designed to manage a steady flow of travelers. Visitors can find shops restaurants and information desks that provide practical support during layovers or arrivals. The airport also offers basic amenities like seating lounges restrooms and charging stations ensuring comfort for those waiting for flights.
Mashhad itself is known for its deep historical roots and religious significance drawing millions of visitors each year. Travelers often come to pay respects at the shrine of Imam Reza one of the most revered figures in Shia Islam. The city’s markets cafes and museums add layers to any visit beyond airport routines. Proximity to scenic landscapes and ancient sites makes the region appealing for those seeking cultural or spiritual experiences.
For those planning a trip it is useful to check flight schedules visa requirements and local transportation options ahead of time. The airport provides clear signage multilingual assistance and organized queues to help navigate security and boarding processes efficiently. Whether arriving for pilgrimage business or leisure the infrastructure supports smooth transitions between air travel and ground movement.
Located in Terminal 1, the Mashhad International Airport Lounge offers a quiet retreat for travellers of all airlines. Access is available to first‑class and business‑class passengers, as well as elite frequent flyers; non‑members can purchase a day pass for US$45 (£33.64). The lounge features complimentary Wi‑Fi, refreshments, showers, and a dedicated check‑in desk.
Situated in the international departure hall, the Iran Air Lounge caters exclusively to Iran Air passengers travelling in business or first class, as well as Platinum members of the airline’s loyalty programme. Entry is complimentary for eligible travellers; others may pay a US$70 (£52.33) day pass. The lounge offers gourmet meals, high‑speed internet, private workstations, and a 24‑hour concierge.
Located on the lower level of Terminal 2, the Mahan Airlines Lounge serves passengers in business or first class and elite members of Mahan’s loyalty scheme. Non‑members can purchase a US$60 (£44.86) day ticket. The lounge features a buffet with international cuisine, free Wi‑Fi, shower facilities, a quiet relaxation zone, and dedicated check‑in counters for expedited boarding.
To Tehran:
Take the high‑speed train from Mashhad Station (≈4½ h, tickets IRR 400,000 (£0.23), depart 07:00–20:00 daily). Alternatively, long‑distance buses run hourly to Tehran’s South Bus Terminal (~12 h, IRR 200,000 (£0.11)). Taxis are impractical for this distance.
To Sabzevar:
Local intercity buses leave Mashhad every hour (≈1 h, IRR 30,000 (£0.02)) and drop you at Sabzevar Station. A taxi takes about 45 min, costing IRR 50,000 (£0.03); be sure to negotiate fare beforehand.
To Nishapur:
Buses to Nishapur depart hourly from Mashhad Bus Terminal (~2 h, IRR 40,000 (£0.02)). Taxis are available for ~90 min at IRR 80,000 (£0.05). Check schedules online as some services run only in the morning and evening.
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