Culture & Etiquette

Emotions concerning the UK and US are fragile, so avoid contentious issues. The Westernisation of the country has been halted and Islamic law is strictly enforced. Address hosts by surname or title. Accept offers of tea.

Intimate relations between non-Muslim men and Muslim women are illegal and can result in imprisonment. Homosexual behaviour, adultery and sex outside of marriage are also illegal under Iranian law and can carry the death penalty. Unmarried partners and friends of the opposite sex travelling together should be discreet at all times in public. Iranian hotel managers may insist on seeing a marriage certificate before allowing any couple to share a double hotel room. DVDs or videos depicting sexual relations and women's magazines are forbidden.

Local Islamic dress codes are enforced by law, and in any public place men should wear long-sleeve shirts and long trousers, whilst women must wear trousers (or a long skirt) and a long-sleeved tunic or coat that reaches to mid-thigh or knee, and must also cover their heads with a headscarf. Anyone disregarding these rules may face arrest.

During the holy month of Ramadan, you must observe the Muslim tradition of not eating, drinking or smoking in public from sunrise to sunset each day. However, there are exemptions for travellers who will be able to eat in hotel restaurants.

Photography near military and other government installations is strictly prohibited. It is worth bearing in mind that many such places may be difficult to identify, so great care should be taken taking photos in areas away from tourist locations, including urban areas. You could be arrested and detained on serious criminal charges, including espionage, which can carry the death penalty.