Iran

About Iran

Capital

Tehran

Continent

Independence Date

1 April 1979

Official Language	Afrikaans
Second Language	Azerbaijani, Kurdish
Population	~89 million
Passport Color	Red
Passport Rank	#101
Dialing Code	98
Country TLD	.ir

Iran Overview

Iran, officially the Islamic Republic of Iran (Persian: جمهوری اسلامی ایران), is a country in Western Asia, bordered by Iraq to the west, Turkey and Armenia to the northwest, Azerbaijan to the north, Turkmenistan to the northeast, Afghanistan and Pakistan to the east. It also has coastlines along the Persian Gulf and the Caspian Sea. The capital and largest city is Tehran.

Iran is one of the world’s oldest civilizations, with historical roots dating back to the Persian Empire. It is renowned for its ancient architecture, poetry, art, and scientific contributions. Modern Iran is a regional power with a diverse economy based on energy, industry, and agriculture. It holds one of the world’s largest reserves of oil and natural gas.

The official language is Persian (Farsi), and the currency is the Iranian Rial (IRR). The nation’s culture reflects a blend of ancient Persian heritage and Islamic traditions, evident in landmarks like Persepolis, Naqsh-e Jahan Square, and the Golestan Palace.

Quick Facts About Iran

Coordinates	32.4279° N, 53.6880° E
Bordering Countries	Iraq, Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan
Region / Continent	Asia (Western Asia / Middle East)
Total Area	~1,648,195 sq km
Population Density	~52 people per sq km
Highest Point	Mount Damavand – 5,610 m
Major Rivers	Karun, Karkheh, Zayandeh Rud
Climate Type	Arid to semi-arid; Mediterranean on the Caspian coast
Famous For	Persian culture, carpets, poetry, historical sites
Major Landmarks	Persepolis, Isfahan, Shiraz, Golestan Palace
Official Language	Persian (Farsi)
Currency	Iranian Rial (IRR)
Government Type	Islamic Republic
Time Zone	UTC+3:30
Major Exports	Oil, natural gas, petrochemicals, carpets, fruits
Visitor Entry	Visa required for most countries; eVisa available