Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport serves as Iran’s primary air gateway. Located about 30 kilometers southeast of the city, it handles most international flights and connects Tehran to destinations worldwide. The airport features modern terminals with facilities for passengers seeking comfort during layovers or travel. Its design reflects practical needs over luxury, prioritizing efficiency in security checks and boarding processes. As a hub for both domestic and global routes, IKA plays a key role in Iran’s aviation network despite ongoing infrastructure updates.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| 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. |
|---|---|
| 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 |
|---|---|
| Ashura (Varies) |
A religious holiday observed with mourning ceremonies, especially in Shia communities |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 110 (Police), 115 (Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| 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. |
Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) is Iran’s largest international airport, located about 30 km southwest of Tehran. The airport features two main terminals: Terminal 1 serves domestic flights, while Terminal 2 handles international arrivals and departures. The expansive airport grounds cover around 134 square kilometers, making it one of the largest airports in the region.
The airport offers a variety of amenities such as duty-free shops where you can find local Iranian products and multiple dining options featuring both Iranian and international cuisine. Wi-Fi is available but can be spotty and travelers often note the lack of signage in English, which requires some patience navigating the airport.
Security and immigration procedures can be lengthy, especially during peak times, so allowing ample time is advised. The airport’s VIP and CIP lounges provide comfortable retreats with refreshments, private check-in and fast-track security, ideal for business travelers or those seeking extra comfort. Transportation to and from the city includes taxis and shuttle buses, but beware of traffic congestion, which can significantly increase travel times.
While some travelers find the airport somewhat austere and less polished compared to global standards, others appreciate the efficient layout and friendly staff. The nearby on-site hotels offer convenience for transit passengers and the overall experience provides a fascinating first impression of Iran, blending tradition, hospitality and modern travel essentials.
Designed for VIP and premium passengers, the CIP Lounge offers a peaceful environment with comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments including hot and cold beverages, fast-track security, and private check-in counters. It operates adjacent to the main terminal and provides prayer rooms and workspaces. Access is typically reserved for business class travellers or by paid entry.
Located within the international terminal, this lounge provides a quieter space away from busy terminals, complete with snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, and relaxing seating. Suitable for travellers seeking comfort and privacy before their flights, the lounge’s capacity and service quality are rated as good within the context of the airport’s amenities.
Several hotels are located near the airport offering a range of options from budget to mid-range accommodations. Many travelers prefer staying in Tehran's city center to enjoy its rich cultural and historic attractions, with convenient taxi or shuttle transfers to the airport.
To Tehran City Center:
The airport is approximately 30 km from Tehran's city centre. Taxis are the most common and convenient way to travel, taking about 40-60 minutes depending on traffic and costing roughly IRR 840,000 – 1,260,000 (£0.48 – 0.72). Shuttle buses provide a more economical option but run on limited schedules and usually take longer. There is no metro connection directly to the airport as of now.
To Qom:
Qom, a significant religious city about 150 km from the airport, can be reached by taxi or private transfers. The journey typically takes around 2 hours by road. Public bus services are available but less convenient for tourists due to language barriers and irregular schedules.
To Karaj:
Located about 40 km west of Tehran, Karaj is accessible by taxi or private car. Travel time ranges from 45 minutes to over an hour depending on traffic conditions. Public transport options exist but usually require transfers and are less user-friendly for visitors unfamiliar with the local system.
+5
+5
+1
