Qom Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Communication Essentials

Stay connected and overcome language barriers in Qom.

Connectivity & Language

Local SIM cards (Irancell, MCI, Rightel) are available at IKA or local shops. Passport needed for registration. Affordable data.
Wi-Fi available in most hotels/guesthouses/some cafes, but speed varies. Many international websites are filtered. Consider a portable WiFi device from Solis Wi-Fi.
A VPN is needed for filtered services. Download and test a reliable VPN (e.g., ExpressVPN, NordVPN, ProtonVPN) before arrival.

Language & Translation

Navigating conversations in Farsi, the official language.

Tips for Communication

Farsi (Persian) is the official language. English is limited, especially in Qom compared to major tourist cities.
Google Translate (with Farsi offline pack downloaded) is highly useful. A Farsi phrasebook also makes a good companion.
Learning basic Farsi phrases greatly assists withteractions. Locals appreciate any effort to speak their language. Learn basic Farsi with Rosetta Stone.

Essential Farsi Phrases

A few phrases to assist you in Qom.

Common Phrases & Pronunciation

Hello: Salaam (Sah-LAAM)
Thank you: Merci (Mer-SEE) or Mamnoon (Mam-NOON)
Pardon me: Bebakhshid (Beh-BAKH-sheed)

Practical Queries

Helpful phrases for getting around and making requests.

Useful Expressions

How much?: Cheghadr? (Cheh-GHADR)
Where is...?: ... Kojaast? (... Koh-JAAST?)
I don't understand: Nemifahmam (Neh-mee-FAH-mam)

Dietary Needs & Emergency

Food & Drink

Water: Ab (Ahb)
I don't eat meat: Man ghosht nemikhoram (Man GOSHT neh-mee-KHO-ram)
I don't eat dairy: Man labaniat nemikhoram (Man lah-bah-NEE-at neh-mee-KHO-ram)
Alcohol and pork are strictly forbidden in Iran.

Airport Lounge Access

Priority Pass: Offers independent airport lounge access globally. Learn more about Priority Pass
Compensair: Helps with flight delays, cancellations, or refused entry onto the plane compensation. Check eligibility with Compensair
For any flight disruptions, keep all travel documents and receipts.
Always check local airport information for specific services.

Business Hours & Schedules

Understand the rhythms of Qom's daily operations and effect of holidays.

Operating Hours

Shops: 9 AM - 9 PM (some lunch breaks). Restaurants: 12-3 PM & 7-10 PM. Museums: 9 AM - 5 PM (check for variations).

Banking Access

Banks: Sat-Wed (8 AM - 4 PM), Thu mornings. Closed Fridays. ATMs are local card only; carry sufficient cash.

Holiday Impact

Fridays are a weekly day of rest. Nowruz (late March) is a major holiday. Holidays in islam vary and can affect services.

Typical Operating Hours

A general guide to daily business hours in Qom.

Times

Shops: Around 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Smaller shops might close for lunch.
Restaurants: Lunch (12:00 PM - 3:00 PM) and dinner (7:00 PM - 10:00 PM or later).
Museums/Attractions: Typically 9:12:00 AM to 5:00 am:00 PM. Seasonal and holiday variations occur.

Banking & Currency

Essential information regarding financial transactions.

Financial Guidance

Banks: Open Saturday to Wednesday (8:00 AM - 4:00 PM), Thursday mornings. Closed Fridays.
ATMs: Widely available but accept only local Iranian debit/credit cards. Foreign cards do not work.
Always carry sufficient cash for daily expenses. Exchange currency at official exchange offices.

Holiday Impact on Services

Public & Religious Holidays

Fridays: Weekly day of rest. Banks, some shops, government offices close.
Nowruz (Iranian New Year): Late March, two weeks. Many shops shut; transport becomes heavily booked.
Holidays In islam: Dates vary (lunar calendar). Services may be limited, attractions crowded.

Seasonal Considerations

Always check specific attraction websites or local information for closures.
Smaller sites might operate reduced hours during low season.
Book transport tickets in advance during peak holiday periods.

Plan Ahead for Smooth Travel

Awareness of local business hours and holiday schedules prevents disruptions and makes your explore more enjoyable.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greeting & Politeness

Navigate social interactions with grace.

Social Customs

Handshakes are common between people of the same gender.
Avoid physical contact with the opposite gender in public unless initiated by locals; a nod or "Salaam" works.
"Salaam" is an universal greeting. Be aware of "Ta'arof," a Persian system of politeness often involving polite refusals before accepting.

Appropriate Attire

Dress modestly in all public spaces.

Dress Code

Women: A headscarf covering hair/neck and loose clothing (manteau over trousers or long skirt) concealing body shape.
Men: Long trousers and sleeved shirts. Shorts are not suitable in public.
Religious Sites: Stricter modesty. Women often receive a chador. Men should wear long sleeves.

Dining & Photography

Understand local customs around food and pictures.

Dining & Photo Ethics

Dining: Wait to be seated. Use your right hand if eating without utensils. Finishing your plate is polite.
Tipping: Small amounts for good service are appreciated. Rounding up fares or bills is common.
Photography: Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially women and children ("mishe ax begiram?").

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid these topics and behaviors for a harmonious visit.

Things to Avoid

Avoid discussing sensitive political topics unless initiated by trusted local friends.
Do not consume or bring alcohol or pork into the country; they are forbidden.
Avoid public displays of affection. Do not point the soles of your feet towards anyone.

Important Considerations

Gender Segregation

Expect gender segregation in certain public spaces like buses, mosques, and shrines.
Mosques and shrines have separate entrances and prayer areas for men and women.
Respect these norms and follow instructions from local attendants.

LGBTQ+ Travel

Homosexuality is illegal in Iran and carries severe penalties.
Public displays of same-sex affection are strictly forbidden.
LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise extreme discretion and prioritize personal safety.

Accessibility Information

Mobility & Infrastructure

Accessibility infrastructure is generally limited, especially for mobility challenges.
Many older buildings, bazaars, and religious sites have steps and lack ramps.
Newer hotels and some modern public buildings may offer better accessibility.

Support & Transport

Public transportation has limited accessibility; buses often have steps.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Snapp/Tap30) provide more direct transport.
Specific services for visual/hearing impairments are rare; a travel companion is highly recommended.

Travel with Cultural Awareness

Embracing local customs and being mindful of cultural sensitivities greatly enriches your travel experience in Qom.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Travel responsibly in Qom to protect its unique cultural and natural environment. Minimize your impact, support local communities, and engage with sensitivity.

Environmental Considerations

Your actions contribute to Qom's environmental preservation.

Eco-friendly Choices

Protected Areas: The Howz-e Soltan salt lake region holds unique ecological value. Respect local guidelines.
Waste Management: Recycling infrastructure is limited. Minimize waste; use a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. Find reusable products at Package Free Shop.
Water Conservation: Iran faces water scarcity. Be mindful of water usage (shorter showers, turning off taps).

Carbon Footprint & Green Travel

Make choices that lessen your environmental impact.

Sustainable Travel Tips

Carbon Offset: Not widely promoted in Iran. Opt for buses between cities or trains over domestic flights if possible. Offset your flights with Terrapass.
Eco-Friendly Accommodation: Limited certified options in Qom. Look for businesses that use electricity from solar panels, minimize waste, or support local conservation. Find eco-friendly stays on Ecobnb.
Sustainable Gear: Pack durable, reusable items. Shop sustainable outdoor gear at Patagonia.

Cultural Sensitivity

Your actions reflect on all visitors; engage respectfully.

Respectful Interaction

Cultural Preservation: Support local artisans and cultural institutions that maintain Qom's heritage.
Observe local customs, dress modestly, and make an effort to learn basic Farsi phrases. Be polite and patient.
Photography Ethics: Always ask for get permission to photograph people, especially women and children. Be discreet in religious sites.

Religious Site Etiquette

guidelines for visiting Qom's holy places.

Conduct in Shrines & Mosques

Dress Code: Women must wear a chador or full head covering and modest clothing. Men should wear long trousers and sleeved shirts.
Remove Shoes: Always remove your shoes before entering shrine areas, mosques, and often private homes.
Maintain Silence: Speak in hushed tones and maintain silence in prayer areas. Do not disrupt prayers.

Ethical Economic Impact

Support Local Livelihoods

Fair Trade: Support local artisans in the Grand Bazaar directly. Choose locally made items.
Local Businesses: Choose locally owned guesthouses, restaurants, and shops.
Community Tourism: Look for tours that directly benefit local communities. Explore ethical tours with G Adventures.

Responsible Giving

Avoid Harmful Practices: Do not engage in any activity that may be exploitative or illegal.
Charitable Giving: Donate through established and reputable local charities or religious institutions.
Consider donating to conservation efforts. Support The Rainforest Site.

Additional Responsible Travel Advice

Further advice for a mindful and respectful journey through Qom and Iran.

Community Engagement

Seek out genuine connections with locals.

Building Bridges

Look for opportunities to interact with local families, perhaps through guesthouses.
Be open to invitations for tea or conversation; Iranian hospitality is legendary.
If possible, visit local schools or community centers (with prior arrangement) to understand everyday life.

Environmental Awareness

Beyond waste, consider your broader impact on natural resources.

Eco-Conscious Habits

Turn off lights and air conditioning when leaving your hotel room.
Unplug electronics when not in use to reduce phantom energy consumption.
Back businesses that demonstrate eco-friendly practices, even if not formally certified.

Historical Preservation

Help safeguard Qom's rich past for future generations.

Care for Heritage Sites

Follow all rules and guidelines when visiting historical buildings and religious sites.
Avoid touching ancient walls, artifacts, or delicate structures.
Dispose of litter properly; do not deface or damage any part of historical sites.

Ethical Tourism Support

Ensure the money you spend as a tourist empower local communities.

Conscious Spending

Be wary of scams or overly pushy vendors; a polite "no" is acceptable.
Bargain respectfully in bazaars, as it is a customary practice.
If you hire private guides or drivers, agree on prices beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.

Beyond the Tourist Trail

Engage Local Guides

Local guides offer insights into Qom's spiritual and cultural niceties, supporting local expertise.

Find a local guide

Attend Cultural Events

If possible, attend traditional formal events or local festivals, seeking permission where appropriate, for an authentic experience.

Explore cultural tours

Support Local Arts

Purchase handcrafted souvenirs directly from artisans, ensuring your money benefits their craft and community.

Discover local crafts

Your Impact Matters

Choose consciously for a truly enriching and beneficial journey.

Qom Travel Tips