Karaj Alborz Province, Iran Travel Guide
Mobile providers like Irancell, MCI (Hamrahe Avval), and Rightel offer SIM cards. You purchase these at Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) or at official provider stores in Karaj. Passport registration is a requirement for activation. A local SIM card makes affordable mobile access to dataible (3G/4G/5G is widely available) and local call rates, making navigation and contact easier.
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and some public places. However, many international websites and social media platforms are filtered in Iran, meaning a Virtual Private Network (VPN) is necessary to reach them. Solis Wi-Fi portable devices are an option. Iran Post offices are available for sending letters and parcels. International shipping can be complicated due to sanctions, so inquire about procedures and restrictions if you plan to send items home.
The official language is Persian, also known as Farsi. English is spoken among some younger people, those working in the tourism industry, and in major hotels. Outside these groups, Proficiency in english may be limited. Translation resources like the Rosetta Stone language learning platform, the Google Translate application (download the Farsi offline language pack) and phrasebooks are useful.
Shops typically open Saturday to Thursday, from 9:00/10:FROM 12 to 13:00/14:00, then reopen from 16:00/17:00 to 20:00/21:00. Many shops close on Fridays, which serves as the official weekend in Iran. Bazaars generally open from morning until late afternoon, Saturday to Thursday. Banks generally operate Saturday to Wednesday, from 8:00 to 16:00, and on Thursday mornings. They remain closed on Fridays. Government offices usually follow a comparable schedule, Saturday to Wednesday, from 8:BETWEEN 12 and 16:00.
Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for better connectivity. Always have a VPN installed for accessing international sites.
Respect local customs and navigate Karaj with these cultural insights and accessibility notes.
Avoid physical contact with members of the opposite gender in public unless the local person initiates it. A common non-physical greeting involves placing the right hand over the heart while bowing slightly. Women must wear a headscarf and modest clothing covering arms and legs in public. Men are generally expected to wear trousers. More official attire works for official or religious settings.
Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially women and children. Avoid photographing government buildings, military sites, or police. These actions can cause misunderstandings or security concerns. During the fasting month of Ramadan, avoid public eating or drinking out of respect for those fasting.
Taboos and sensitive topics include politics, religion, or sensitive social issues. Avoid discussing these unless locals initiate the conversation and you feel confident in the context. Public displays of affection are highly frowned upon. Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited throughout the country. While the country's official name is Iran, referring to it as "Persia" is also acceptable and commonly appreciated for its historical context. Homosexuality is illegal in Iran, so LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise extreme discretion.
Tipping practices are detailed in Section 2.3 of the full guide. Tipping is not mandatory but welcomed for good service. During the fasting month of Ramadan, avoid public eating or drinking out of respect for those fasting. Gender segregation occurs in some public spaces, like public transport (as noted in Section 5.1 of the full guide) and certain entrances to buildings.
Infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is generally limited in Karaj. Sidewalks can be uneven, and ramps or lifts are not universally available in older buildings or public transport. Newer buildings and some metro stations may offer better accessibility features. However, many historical sites feature stairs and uneven terrain, making access challenging. Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are not widely available for tourists.
Always get consent before taking pictures of people. Dress modestly, especially women, by wearing a headscarf and loose clothing.
information for your arrival and departure from the region.
Priority Pass provides frequent travelers with independent airport lounge access around the world. This can make layovers more comfortable, offering amenities such as Wi-Fi, food, and quiet workspaces. Access applies to various airports globally, including key international hubs that connect to Iran.
Compensair is a service that helps customers receive compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding. This assistance applies to disruptions that meet specific criteria under international passenger rights regulations. Filing a claim through such a service can help recover expenses and acknowledge travel inconveniences.
Transfers to and from Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) are available via taxis, private cars, or airport transport services. It's recommended to pre-book private transfers for convenience, especially if arriving late at night or with significant luggage. Mass transit options include a metro line connecting IKA to Tehran, from where you can take intercity transport to Karaj. Always confirm taxi fares before beginning your journey.
Arrive at the airport well in advance of your international flight, typically 3-4 hours prior to departure, due to security checks and potential queues. Ensure all travel documents, including your passport, visa (where appropriate), and onward tickets, are readily accessible. Duty-free shops are available at IKA, offering local crafts, sweets, and other goods. Please be aware of customs regulations regarding items you can take out of the country.
Plan your trip with accessibility limitations in mind and consider contacting your accommodation or a local travel agency for specific needs.
Understand the community's currency, exchange methods, and monetary practices.
The official currency of Iran is the Iranian Rial (IRR), though prices are often quoted in Tomans (1 Toman = 10 Rials). International credit/debit cards are not widely accepted due to sanctions, so cash is the main form of payment. Exchange foreign currency (USD, EUR are best) at official exchange offices (Sarrafi) or major banks. Avoid unofficial street money changers. It's advisable to transport sufficient cash for your trip.
Local banks are available for amenities like money exchange and cash withdrawals utilizing local debit cards. Foreign tourists can obtain a tourist debit card from a number of banks or tourism companies, which you pre-load with Iranian Rials. This ticket simplifies transactions within the country. ATMs are widely available but only accept local cards. You will not be able to use your international debit/credit cards at ATMs.
Tipping is not generally customary or mandatory in smaller eateries or for taxis, but it is appreciated for good service, especially in higher-end restaurants and hotels. For tour guides and drivers, a tip is expected. Bargaining is common and expected in bazaars and street markets. Engage respectfully in the bargaining process, which is a cultural interaction. For fixed-price shops, prices are non-negotiable.
Iran is generally an affordable destination for travelers, especially for accommodations and food. Transportation costs are low. Major expenses may include organized tours or specific souvenir purchases. Keep track of your spending, as the fluctuating exchange rates can alter your budget. Always carry small denominations of Rials for daily transactions, as change can sometimes be an issue for large notes.
Local apps for mobile payments are widespread among Iranians, but these typically require a local bank account and are not accessible to foreign tourists.
Even if tourist debit cards are acquired, always carry backup cash for smaller vendors or emergencies, as card readers could not be available everywhere.
Always ask for and retain receipts, especially for major purchases or services, for clarity on transactions.
International plastic cards are not widely accepted; cash is essential for transactions. Plan to exchange currency at official offices.
