Taliban’s Push for Afghan Tourism Amidst Women’s Education Restrictions and Diplomatic Challenges

Anna Corbett, wife of an individual being held hostage by the Taliban, appeared on ‘Fox & Friends First’ to discuss her recent phone call with him and efforts for his safe return. Meanwhile, in Afghanistan, a new institute run by the Taliban aims to train individuals for roles in tourism and hospitality as foreign visitors flock to the country despite restrictions placed upon women seeking an education beyond sixth grade. Around 30 men are currently studying at this debut student cohort with varying ages, educational backgrounds, and professional experiences. The students hope that promoting a different side of Afghanistan will entice tourists due to improved security levels over recent years alongside cheaper costs in comparison to neighboring countries like Pakistan which have become dangerous for travelers. However, there are still obstacles preventing the growth of Afghan tourism such as difficulties obtaining visas and expensive fees required by some nations who severed ties with Afghanistan following the Taliban’s return to power. The capital Kabul has more international flights than any other location in the country; however, none of its airports have direct routes to major tourist markets like China or India due to ongoing conflicts between Afghan embassies and consulates staffed by individuals from both former Western-backed administrations and those under Taliban control. The head of Afghanistan’s Tourism Directorate aims for a visa on arrival system, but this may take several years to implement as there are issues with the country’s road network which is half-paved or non-existent in some areas alongside airline avoidance of Afghan airspace. Despite these challenges, students at the institute have aspirations such as Ahmed Massoud Talash who hopes to use his studies on picturesque locations around Afghanistan and local history for future social media marketing projects. Samir Ahmadzai aims to open a hotel but recognizes that he needs more knowledge regarding tourism and hospitality beforehand. Women’s education has become harder since the restrictions imposed by the Taliban, including dress codes, requirements for women to have male guardians when traveling, dining alone or socializing with other females in public becoming increasingly difficult due to gyms closing their doors to women alongside beauty salons being banned from operation. The country’s only five-star hotel has reopened its spa and salon facilities exclusively for foreign female visitors after a prolonged closure period; however, Afghan women born within the nation are barred access unless they have ‘born in Afghanistan’ on their ID cards. Tour companies operating overseas aim to promote responsible tourism practices that contribute positively towards local economies whilst fostering mutual respect and understanding between different cultures. The company Rocky Road Travel supports a women’s rights organization based in Afghanistan by donating funds for projects, working closely with them, and remaining aware of broader political context issues affecting the nation at large. However, an official from the Tourism Directorate laments that there are no female students currently studying within this institute due to policy changes implemented after Taliban rule began, resulting in former pupils not returning or graduating beforehand.