Afghanistan turns to cultural fairs to revive tourism, support artisans
Week-long exhibition at historic citadel highlights local craftsmanship, draws foreign tourists, and exposes challenges for artisans
HERAT, Afghanistan (MNTV) — Afghanistan is seeking to revive its tourism sector and showcase its cultural heritage through a week-long art and handicraft exhibition at Herat’s Ikhtiyaruddin Citadel, a UNESCO-listed fortress dating back to the 14th century.
According to the ToloNews, the exhibition was launched with support from Turkey’s state-run development agency TİKA, featuring around 100 stalls run by artists and entrepreneurs from the western region.
Officials say the event aims to draw international visitors while providing local artisans with opportunities to market their products.
According to Herat’s Department of Information and Culture, foreign tourists have begun returning to the city in greater numbers, despite Afghanistan’s political and economic challenges.
“We see that foreign tourists are increasingly visiting Herat and exploring its ancient sites,” said Hamidullah Ghiyasi, head of arts and culture at the department. Turkish officials pledged continued support for cultural and tourism-related projects in Afghanistan.
Foreign visitors at the fair have praised Afghan hospitality, with one British tourist describing his experience as “truly impressive.” But exhibitors say the economic difficulties are severe, and domestic sales alone are not enough to sustain livelihoods.
“Permanent exhibitions should be held in different provinces and at different times,” said stallholder Mohammad Ebrahim Habibi, while others urged the government to invite embassies and international buyers.
For many artisans, international exposure is key. “This exhibition introduces the works of artists to the global community and shows that our country has talented artists,” said craftsman Mohammad Akhtar Haidari.
Analysts note that Afghanistan’s cultural sector faces immense obstacles, from weak infrastructure to declining international engagement since 2021. Still, events like the Herat fair signal an effort to link heritage preservation with economic survival — and to remind the outside world that Afghan art continues to endure.
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