Iran Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Iran, Middle East State; 1.6 million km², 81.8 million residents (2019).Iran borders in the west to Iraq and Turkey, in the north to Armenia, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan and in the east to Afghanistan and Pakistan. The country has a coast towards the Caspian Sea to the north, the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean to the south. The capital is Tehran (8.7 million residents, 2017).

Country facts

Jomhūrī-ye Eslāmī-ye Īrān / Islamic Republic of Iran
Country abbreviation: IR
Area: 1.6 million km²
Population (2019): 81.8 million residents
Capital: Tehran
Main language: Persian
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Hassan Rohani (President)
Per capita GDP (2016): US $ 5,219
GNI per capita (2016): US $ 5,470
Currency: 1 Iranian rial = 100 dinars
Currency code: IRR
Country number (telephony): 98
Internet domain name: ir
Time difference compared to Sweden: +2.5
National Day: April 1 (Republican Proclamation, 1979)

Nature

Land use: forest (7%), agricultural land (11%), other (82%)
Highest mountain: Demavend (Damavand; 5,671 m above sea level)
Longest river: Karun (800 km)

Population

Population density (2019): 51 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 1.4%; birth number 19 ‰, death number 5 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (24%), 15-64 (70%), 65- (6%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 75 years, women 77 years
Infant mortality (2019): 5 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 113 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.798 (place 60 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 74%
Most populous cities (2017): Tehran (8.7 million residents), Meshed (Mashhad; 3 million), Esfahan (2 million)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (10%), industry (35%), service (55%)
Exports (2017): US $ 101,420 million
Main export product: oil, chemical products
Main exporting countries: China, India, South Korea
Import (2017): US $ 76 390
Main import products: machinery, capital goods, food
Main importing countries: United Arab Emirates, China, Turkey
Railway network (2014): 8,400 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Iran is located in the Middle East, bordering the Caspian Sea to the north, the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman to the south, and sharing land borders with Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan to the north, east, and southeast. It also shares its western border with Iraq and Turkey. Iran’s position is strategic, as it connects the Arabian Peninsula with Central Asia, serving as a crossroads for trade and culture between the East and the West. The country spans an area of about 1.65 million square kilometers, making it the 18th largest country in the world.

Iran is surrounded by major geopolitical players and vital waterways, which has historically shaped its military, economic, and political significance. Its access to the Persian Gulf has allowed it to control important shipping lanes that facilitate trade with many nations. The country’s diverse geography plays a role in its climate and cultural diversity, further influencing its development over millennia.

Major Landforms

Iran’s landscape is characterized by rugged mountains, vast plateaus, and expansive deserts. The country is divided by the central plateau, a large, arid region surrounded by mountain ranges, such as the Zagros Mountains in the west and the Alborz Mountains in the north. The Zagros Mountains are the country’s main mountain range, with peaks reaching over 4,000 meters in height, and they form a natural barrier between Iran and Iraq. The Alborz Mountains are found along the northern edge of the country, separating the Caspian Sea from the central plateau and forming the backbone of the country’s geography in the north.

To the east and southeast of the central plateau, Iran is home to vast deserts such as the Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut. These arid landscapes are some of the hottest and driest places in the world, with temperatures regularly exceeding 50°C in the summer. The central plateau and desert regions are largely sparsely populated, with large parts of the country’s population concentrated in the more hospitable northern and western regions.

Rivers and Lakes

Iran’s river systems are concentrated in the north and west, where water is more abundant due to the mountainous terrain. The longest river in Iran is the Karun River, which flows through the southwestern part of the country and eventually empties into the Persian Gulf. The Karun is essential for both irrigation and transportation in the region.

Other important rivers in Iran include the Zayandeh Rud, which flows through the central region, and the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, which pass through the country’s western border with Iraq. Despite these rivers, Iran’s internal water resources are strained due to its dry climate, and the country has made considerable investments in dam construction and water management to mitigate its water scarcity problems.

In the north, the Caspian Sea borders Iran, providing the country with access to significant marine resources. The Caspian is the world’s largest inland body of water, and it influences the climate of northern Iran, making the region more temperate and suitable for agriculture. However, water scarcity remains an ongoing challenge for much of the country.

Climate

Varied Climate Zones

Iran’s climate is highly varied, due to its vast size, diverse topography, and geography. The northern coastal regions along the Caspian Sea experience a subtropical climate, characterized by moderate temperatures and high humidity, with significant rainfall during the winter months. This area, which includes provinces like Gilan and Mazandaran, is considered the agricultural heartland of Iran, benefiting from both the climate and the fertile soils of the Caspian coast.

The central plateau and the southern regions of the country, including cities like Tehran and Isfahan, experience a continental climate. Winters are cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing in many areas, while summers are hot and dry, often exceeding 40°C. The central plateau, surrounded by mountain ranges, is generally arid and semi-arid, with limited precipitation, contributing to the country’s desert conditions.

The southeastern and eastern parts of Iran are dominated by deserts, including the Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut, which are among the hottest and driest places in the world. These regions experience extreme temperatures, especially in the summer months, with limited rainfall. The combination of heat and dryness makes it difficult for agriculture to thrive without irrigation.

Seasonal Variation

Iran experiences significant seasonal variation, particularly due to its diverse geography. The winter months, from December to February, bring cold temperatures, particularly in the northern and mountainous regions, where snowfall is common. In contrast, the summer months, from June to September, see extremely hot weather in much of the country, with the central plateau and desert regions enduring searing heat.

Spring and autumn are mild and transitional seasons, with pleasant temperatures in much of the country. The spring months (March to May) bring moderate temperatures, and rainfall is generally higher in the northern regions, making this a prime agricultural season. Fall (September to November) is also mild, offering pleasant weather before the onset of the harsh winter.

People

Demographics

Iran has a population of around 85 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in the Middle East. The country is ethnically diverse, with the majority of the population being Persian, but it is also home to numerous ethnic minorities, including Azeris, Kurds, Arabs, Baluchis, and Turkmen. The Persian-speaking majority resides predominantly in the central and western regions of the country, while ethnic minorities are located in the northwestern, southwestern, and southeastern parts of Iran.

Iran’s population is relatively young, with a significant portion under the age of 30. However, the country faces demographic challenges related to an aging population, declining birth rates, and an increasing number of elderly citizens. The country’s youth population is often highly educated, contributing to a skilled workforce, although economic challenges such as high unemployment rates among young people persist.

Iran also has a sizeable diaspora, particularly in countries such as the United States, Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom, due to historical events like the 1979 Iranian Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War. This diaspora plays an important role in maintaining cultural, social, and economic ties with Iran.

Language and Religion

The official language of Iran is Persian (Farsi), which is spoken by the majority of the population. Persian is used in government, education, media, and literature. There are also several other languages spoken throughout the country, including Azerbaijani, Kurdish, Arabic, and Baluchi, reflecting the country’s ethnic diversity. However, Persian remains the primary language of communication.

Iran is a predominantly Shia Muslim country, with approximately 90-95% of the population adhering to Twelver Shia Islam, which is the official state religion. Shia Islam has played a major role in shaping the country’s culture, political structure, and identity, particularly following the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Iran’s religious landscape is not only defined by Islam, but also by smaller religious minorities, including Christians, Jews, Zoroastrians, and Baha’is, many of whom have deep historical roots in the region.

Religious observances are central to life in Iran, and the Islamic calendar marks key events such as the holy month of Ramadan, Ashura (commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein), and the annual pilgrimage of Hajj. Despite Iran’s religious homogeneity, there are distinct cultural and religious practices in different regions of the country, especially among ethnic minorities.

Economy

Economic Overview

Iran has a mixed economy, with significant state involvement in key sectors, especially in oil and gas. The country holds some of the largest proven reserves of oil and natural gas in the world, making the energy sector the backbone of Iran’s economy. Oil exports account for the majority of government revenue and foreign exchange earnings, and the country’s oil industry has a global influence.

Despite its natural resources, Iran faces numerous economic challenges, including international sanctions that have affected its ability to trade freely on the global market. The sanctions, which have targeted Iran’s nuclear program and other areas, have hindered economic growth, leading to inflation, a devaluation of the Iranian rial, and a stagnating economy.

In addition to oil, Iran has a large agricultural sector, which benefits from the country’s varied climate and fertile river valleys. Iran produces a wide range of crops, including wheat, rice, and fruit, and is one of the world’s leading producers of pistachios and saffron. The manufacturing sector in Iran is also diverse, with industries such as automotive, textiles, and cement contributing to the economy.

Challenges and Opportunities

Iran faces several major economic challenges, including the need to diversify its economy beyond oil, reduce reliance on state-owned enterprises, and tackle widespread corruption. The country also faces a youth unemployment crisis, with many young people struggling to find work despite high educational levels. Sanctions, political instability, and regional tensions continue to undermine foreign investment, which further stifles economic growth.

However, Iran has several opportunities for growth. The country’s rich natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals, provide potential for future development in energy and mining sectors. Additionally, Iran’s young, well-educated population offers a skilled workforce that could help drive technological and industrial development. The country’s tourism sector, which includes historical sites, natural beauty, and religious landmarks, also holds significant potential for growth if international relations improve.

Government

Political Structure

Iran is an Islamic Republic with a political system that blends theocratic and democratic elements. The government is based on the principles of Shia Islam, and the country’s highest authority is the Supreme Leader, a religious figure who has ultimate control over all branches of government, including the military and judiciary. The Supreme Leader is elected by the Assembly of Experts, an elected body of clerics, but the position remains largely in the hands of the country’s most powerful religious figures.

The President of Iran is the head of government and is elected every four years through a popular vote. The president is responsible for managing the day-to-day affairs of the country, overseeing the executive branch, and implementing policies. However, the president’s authority is limited by the Supreme Leader’s control over key areas of policy, particularly foreign relations and defense.

Iran’s parliament, known as the Majlis, is composed of 290 members who are elected by the people every four years. While the Majlis passes laws and supervises the executive, it must operate within the parameters set by the Supreme Leader and the country’s Islamic laws. The political system also includes a powerful Guardian Council, which is responsible for vetting candidates for elected office and ensuring that laws conform to Islamic principles.

Political History

Iran’s political history has been shaped by centuries of dynastic rule, foreign influence, and revolutionary change. The country was ruled by monarchies for much of its history, particularly under the Qajar and Pahlavi dynasties. The Pahlavi dynasty, which began in the early 20th century, saw modernization and Westernization under leaders like Reza Shah and his son Mohammad Reza Shah, but also growing political repression and inequality.

In 1979, Iran underwent a revolution that overthrew the monarchy and established the Islamic Republic under the leadership of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. This revolution marked the beginning of a new political system in which Shia clerics hold significant power, and the country was governed by Islamic law, or Sharia. The revolution brought about major political, social, and economic changes, including the nationalization of many industries and the severing of ties with the West, particularly the United States.

Iran has since faced numerous challenges, including the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), international sanctions, and domestic political strife. The country’s political system has evolved over time, with elections held for the presidency and parliament, but power ultimately remains concentrated in the hands of the Supreme Leader and religious authorities.

Culture

Art and Music

Iran’s rich cultural heritage dates back thousands of years, and its art, literature, and music reflect this deep historical tradition. Iranian art encompasses a variety of mediums, including painting, architecture, calligraphy, and textiles. Persian carpets are world-renowned for their intricate designs and craftsmanship, and Iran’s ancient monuments, such as Persepolis and the city of Isfahan, showcase the country’s rich architectural history.

Iran has a vibrant musical culture, with classical Persian music being one of the oldest continuous musical traditions in the world. The music is based on a system of modes, or “dastgah,” and is often performed with traditional instruments such as the tar (a stringed instrument), santur (a hammered dulcimer), and setar (a small lute). Iran also has a thriving contemporary music scene, with pop, rock, and electronic music gaining popularity among younger generations.

Festivals and Cuisine

Iran celebrates a variety of cultural and religious festivals, most of which are rooted in Islamic traditions. The most significant holiday is Nowruz, the Persian New Year, which marks the arrival of spring and is celebrated with feasts, music, and the setting of the “Haft-Seen” table, a symbolic display of items representing life, health, and prosperity.

Other important festivals include Ashura, which commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, and Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan. Iranian cuisine is famous for its rich flavors and variety, with dishes like kebabs, stews (such as ghormeh sabzi and fesenjan), and rice dishes (like pilaf and tahchin) being staples of Iranian dining. Iranian food incorporates a range of ingredients, including saffron, yogurt, pomegranates, and dried fruits.

Literature and Cinema

Iranian literature has a long and storied history, with poets such as Hafez, Rumi, and Saadi creating some of the world’s most famous works. Persian literature often revolves around themes of love, mysticism, and human experience, and these themes continue to be reflected in modern Iranian poetry and prose. Iran also has a strong tradition of storytelling, with epic tales like the Shahnameh (Book of Kings) being central to Iranian identity.

Iran’s film industry has gained international acclaim, particularly in recent decades. Iranian cinema, with directors such as Abbas Kiarostami, Asghar Farhadi, and Jafar Panahi, has been lauded for its exploration of social issues, human rights, and personal narratives. Iranian films often provide a subtle commentary on the complexities of Iranian society and have earned recognition at prestigious film festivals such as Cannes and the Academy Awards.