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As autumn arrives with its mild weather and calm waters, the Persian Gulf transforms into one of the most inviting travel destinations in the region. From the bustling markets of Kish and Qeshm to the untouched natural beauty of Hengam, Lavan, and Hormuz, Iran’s southern islands offer a perfect blend of culture, commerce, and coastal charm. This is the best time of year to explore these jewels of the Persian Gulf — where turquoise waters meet vibrant local traditions and growing opportunities for eco-tourism and trade. Qeshm Island Qeshm Island, located in the Strait of Hormuz, is Iran’s largest island in the Persian Gulf with an area of about 1,491 km². Designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark, the island offers breathtaking sights such as the Valley of the Stars, salt caves, mangrove forests in the Hara protected area, and an extraordinary array of geological formations. Economically, Qeshm also hosts a free trade zone and is attracting investment in tourism infrastructure and trade logistics. The island is positioned to benefit from new sea services connecting it to Dubai and Oman, making it a strategic hub for both tourism and commerce. For visitors this season, the breezier autumn air makes exploring outdoor attractions more comfortable than the intense summer heat. Kish Island Kish Island, covering around 91 km² and located in Hormozgan Province, is known as a resort destination with a free trade zone status that facilitates business and tourism. The island features sandy beaches, coral reefs, shopping centres, entertainment venues, and a relaxed visa policy for many tourists. From an economic viewpoint, Kish’s free trade zone enables easier import–export procedures, hotel and leisure investment, and links to regional tourism routes. With autumn easing the heat, now is an excellent time to enjoy water-sports, beachfront walking, and exploring the commercial side of the island with fewer crowds. Hormuz Island Just a short ferry ride from Qeshm, Hormuz Island is frequently called the “Rainbow Island” thanks to its multi-coloured soil, red-sand beaches, and striking natural formations. Known for the Red Beach, Valley of Statues, and unique mineral landscapes, Hormuz attracts photographers, backpackers, and travellers looking for one-of-a-kind scenery. Though smaller and less commercialised than Kish or Qeshm, Hormuz is opening up to tourism and offers a charming mix of local culture, artisanal crafts and natural wonder. Autumn temperatures make it ideal for day-trips and slow exploration. Economic & Market Insights The islands are more than just scenic getaways—they are important economic venues: 1. Free Trade Zones: Kish and Qeshm offer special economic incentives for business and trade, making them attractive for investors and entrepreneurs. 2. Retail & Shopping: Shopping centres and local markets on Kish serve both tourists and business visitors, offering local goods, handicrafts, and duty-free opportunities. 3. Tourism Industry Growth: With direct sea and flight links developing (for example connecting to Dubai and Oman), tourism is becoming an engine for job creation and foreign-visitor growth. 4. Local Crafts and Exports: On islands like Qeshm and Hormuz, local artisans produce textiles, souvenirs, and eco-tourism services that tap international interest in authentic and natural products. Travel Tips for Autumn Book accommodation early as cooler weather draws more local and international visitors. Choose outdoor experiences such as dolphin-watching around Qeshm, sand-boarding on Hormuz’s red dunes, or kayaking around Kish’s reefs. Don’t miss late-afternoon beach time when the light softens and temperatures drop—it’s ideal for photography and relaxed walks. Explore island markets for locally-made crafts—these make great souvenirs and reflect the islands’ economic vibrancy. In short, this autumn marks an excellent window to experience the Persian Gulf’s finest islands—where natural landscapes meet economic dynamism, and leisure travel merges with trade opportunity. Whether you’re watching the sunset over Qeshm’s Valley of the Stars, shopping in Kish’s free-trade zone, or hiking Hormuz’s rainbow hills, you’ll discover why these islands are now key destinations for both tourist and business alike. Report by Marzieh Rahmani
