If you're in Iran, you should leave immediately. Foreigners in Iran, including Australians, are at a high risk of arbitrary detention or arrest. Foreign and dual nationals have been detained without due process of law.
Low Crime Rate: Safety on the Streets
While it's always wise to take precautions no matter where you go, the same common-sense rules that apply to any travel destination can be followed in Iran. Be aware of your surroundings, take care of your belongings, and stay informed about any local customs or restrictions.
Iran is a country with a long and rich history, and it is generally considered safe for women to visit. However, it is important to be aware of and respect the local customs and laws, particularly regarding dress and behavior.
The FCDO advises against all travel to Iran. British and British-Iranian dual nationals are at very/significantly high risk of arbitrary arrest, questioning or detention. Holding a British passport can be reason enough for the authorities to target you.
Avoid vigils, marches, demonstrations and large public gatherings, as they can turn violent without warning. Terrorist attacks could happen anywhere in the country, including Tehran. They could occur at any time. Avoid possible targets and areas with a low level of security.
It is rude to put your feet on the table. Burping and sniffing in front of others is considered rude. One should not touch people of the opposite gender unless they are very close family or friends.
Since 1995, unveiled women can also be imprisoned for up to 60 days. Under Book 5, article 638 of the Islamic Penal Code, women in Iran who do not wear a hijab may be imprisoned from 10 days to two months, and/or required to pay fines from 50,000 up to 500,000 rials adjusted for inflation.
China and India have also emerged as friends of Iran; these three countries face similar challenges in the global economy as they industrialize, and consequently find themselves aligned on a number of issues. Iran maintains regular diplomatic and commercial relations with Russia and the former Soviet Republics.
Australian passport holders can travel to Iran and obtain visas at the airport (visa-on-arrival fee: 145 Euros).
You might be looking for a straightforward answer to know whether Iran is a safe spot for solo female travelers or not; long story short, Iran is definitely a safe place for women but it is worth knowing a few tips to make it an even much safer journey.
Religion: Sharia-based Iranian law states that the legal age for marriage is 13 for girls and 15 for boys, but marriages can still be carried out at a younger age with the consent of fathers and permission from court judges. This has enabled a culture whereby child marriage is considered somewhat socially acceptable.
Can You Travel to Iran as an Unmarried Couple? The answer is YES. You can easily travel to Iran and go around this stupendous country as an unmarried couple.
Alcohol. The import, sale, manufacture and consumption of alcohol in Iran is strictly forbidden on religious grounds, with exceptions only for certain recognised Iranian religious minorities (not foreigners). Penalties can be severe.
Iran's Gorgeous Natural Landscapes
Rarely does another country have such a diverse range of climates. The greenest woods atop mountains with a view of the Caspian Sea may be found in Iran's north. Landscapes that are highly worn and semi-dry are seen when you cross the Alborz Mountain Range.
Iran is home to 19 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and never falls short of historical buildings, castles, mosques, churches, bridges, palaces, gardens, stunning natural magnets and an unusually hospitable people.
Syria. Syria and Iran are strategic allies. Syria is often called Iran's "closest ally", the Arab nationalism ideology of Syria's ruling Baath party notwithstanding.
Official diplomatic relations were first established in 1937. The two civilizations have had a history of cultural, political, and economic exchanges along the Silk Road since at least 200 BC, and possibly earlier. They have developed a friendly, economic, and strategic relationship.
Iran and Russia are strategic allies and form an axis in the Caucasus alongside Armenia. Iran and Russia are also military allies in the conflicts in Syria and Iraq and partners in Afghanistan and post-Soviet Central Asia. The Russian Federation is also the chief supplier of arms and weaponry to Iran.
you can wear jeans or trousers but you must not wear shorts in the Islamic republic. Of course, they are okay to wear in private places. T-shirts are fine but you are not allowed to wear sleeveless vests in Iran.
This dress code comes under the Islamic Sharia Law, which governs Iran and was imposed after the 1979 revolution. Under this law, women are mandated to cover their hair and wear long, loose-fitting clothes to hide their figures. Anybody caught violating this law faces public shaming, fines and even arrest.
Despite discrimination, Iranian women are highly educated and have broken barriers in many professional fields. Women have pushed against discriminatory laws and policies, like the dress code and sexual harassment, achieving some reforms. But they have faced arrest, torture, imprisonment, and even death sentences.
Eye Contact: When talking to people of the same age, gender or status, direct eye contact is expected. This communicates friendly affection and sincerity. However, in accordance to Islamic principles, males and females are expected to lower their gaze and avoid sustained eye contact with each other.
Iranians highly value their guests and always try to receive them kindly and serve them the best dishes and drinks possible. Therefore, one should notify the host a few days prior to going to their house and avoid unscheduled visits.
Greetings may involve a handshake with the right hand only. Men and women generally will not shake hands unless the female outstretches her hand first and the man is willing to reciprocate the gesture. Iranian men commonly greet women by placing their hand over their heart and nodding/bowing gently.