Dubbed the world's most dangerous country, Afghanistan is seeing a rise in tourism despite being under Taliban rule. The country has been given the title for six consecutive years by the Global Peace Index due to its low safety score.
Decades of war have left Afghanistan with dire consequences: food shortages, orphans, drugs and weapons are all problems. The rise of the Taliban has only exacerbated the situation. Yet despite these hardships, the country still holds a strange allure for some tourists, the dark tourists who flock to the country’s rugged terrain to explore the country.
Afghanistan, a country considered one of the most dangerous destinations in the world
However, the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has urged Britons to avoid any travel to the Asian country. "You should not travel to Afghanistan," the FCDO warns. "The security situation is volatile. Travel across Afghanistan is extremely dangerous and border crossings may not be open."
There is a high risk of British citizens being detained in Afghanistan. If you are a British citizen and detained in Afghanistan, you could face months or years in prison. The FCDO's ability to help is extremely limited and cannot provide direct support in Afghanistan."
Obtaining visas has become a difficult and expensive endeavor for tourists amid Afghanistan's diplomatic isolation after the Taliban took power after 20 years of war. Countries have cut ties with Kabul, where no country recognizes the group as the legitimate government.
Despite receiving many warnings from diplomatic agencies, the number of people visiting this country continues to increase.
The largest hub for flights to Afghanistan is the United Arab Emirates (UAE). There are 16 flights per week to Kabul International Airport from Dubai and another 3 from Abu Dhabi. However, Western citizens need a visa before traveling to Afghanistan and the process is quite complicated.
There is more to consider than just getting a visa, as travelers who choose to travel to Afghanistan may not have any support from any organization if they are in danger or need help. In August 2021, the US closed its embassy in Kabul and issued a Level 4 travel advisory: Do not travel to Afghanistan.
However, government warnings have not deterred adventurers. During the war, tourists have stayed in city hotels, rural inns, or camped in Afghanistan’s valleys. Instead of restaurants, tour groups often dine at local homes to avoid the risk of going out at night.
Under the auspices of the Taliban regime, Afghanistan’s tourism industry is undergoing new changes. The establishment of a tourism training academy shows that the Taliban is looking to diversify the economy and attract foreign investment. Mr. Mohammad Saeed, Director of the Kabul Tourism Department, expressed optimism about the future of the tourism industry. Despite the country’s many difficulties, he and his colleagues are working hard to build a professional tourism industry. The establishment of a tourism training academy is an important step, demonstrating the Taliban government’s determination to develop this sector.
