Kish International Airport

Kish International Airport is not merely a transport hub, but the grand gateway to the "Pearl of the Gulf," marking the beginning of your acquaintance with sunny Iran. This airport possesses a unique atmosphere of relaxed resort ease, harmoniously combined with modern infrastructure and a high level of security. Thanks to the island's special status, the airport is a key point for tourists wishing to enjoy the warm sea and shopping without unnecessary bureaucratic complexities.

Airport Features and Advantages

Kish International Airport stands out among other air harbours in the region due to a number of significant advantages that make it convenient for travellers:

Visa-Free Entry: The most attractive feature for foreign tourists is the special regime of the free trade zone. Citizens of most countries in the world can fly to Kish Island without obtaining a visa in advance and stay here for up to 14 days. Processing takes place directly upon arrival, making spontaneous trips to the seaside incredibly accessible.

High Level of Service (CIP and VIP): The airport is renowned for its superior comfort lounges. CIP (Commercially Important Person) services are excellently developed here: passengers are met at the stairs, transported to a separate terminal in special vehicles, and treated to drinks and snacks while staff handle baggage claim and passport control. This is the ideal choice for those who value time and privacy.

Modern Infrastructure and Transport: The terminals are equipped with everything necessary, including Duty Free shops, cosy cafes, and currency exchange points. It is also worth noting the transfer organisation: the airport taxi fleet consists predominantly of comfortable modern imported vehicles (often white Toyota SUVs or sedans), ensuring a pleasant journey to your hotel from the very first minutes of your stay on the island.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Kish International Airport (KIH). If you have any questions, we recommend reaching out via the communication channels listed below.

• Official Website: kishairport.ir
• Inquiry Service Phones: +98 76 4444 3200, +98 76 4444 3300 (for calls from outside Iran), or the short code 199 (for calls within the country).
• Address: Kish International Airport, Kish Island, Hormozgan Province, Iran.
• Email: info@kishairport.ir
• Social Media: At this moment, the airport does not provide official links to its social media pages.
• Lost & Found: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative. The airport's own lost and found phone number is: +98 76 44485535.
• Passenger Support: For general information and assistance, please contact the airport inquiry service at the phone numbers listed above.

Getting to Kish International Airport (KIH) is quite simple, as the island itself is compact and the transport infrastructure is well-oriented towards tourists. The journey from most hotels and resort zones to the terminal rarely takes much time.

Taxi and Transfer — this is the most popular, convenient, and reliable way to reach the airport. On Kish Island, there are many official taxis operating, which are easy to find anywhere on the island or order through your hotel reception. A trip from the central districts to the airport usually takes 10–15 minutes. The cost of the trip is affordable, but it is recommended to clarify the price with the driver in advance or ensure the trip is conducted by meter to avoid misunderstandings. For maximum comfort, you can book a private transfer through your hotel or travel agency.

Car Rental — an excellent option for those who prefer to explore the island on their own. Many tourists rent a car for the entire duration of their stay. Most rental companies offer a vehicle return service directly at the airport before departure. This provides maximum freedom and eliminates the need to look for transport at the last moment. Ensure you clarify the return procedure with your rental company.

As for public transport, it is poorly developed on the island and not oriented towards direct routes to the airport that would be convenient for tourists with luggage. Therefore, relying on buses for timely arrival for a flight is not advisable. For those arriving in their own or a rented vehicle, the airport provides parking where cars can be left for both short and long periods.

The International Airport of Kish Island (KIH) has a simple and clear structure, making it convenient for passengers. The airport consists of two main terminals located in close proximity to each other: one serves domestic flights, and the other serves international ones.

The Domestic Terminal is larger and busier. It receives and dispatches aircraft from major cities in Iran, such as Tehran, Shiraz, Isfahan, and Mashhad. Inside, you will find check-in counters for local airlines, a security screening area, comfortable waiting lounges, and several cafes. Navigation here is intuitive, and signs will help you orient yourself easily.

The International Terminal serves flights from abroad, predominantly from the Gulf countries, for example, from Dubai. It is smaller in size but equipped with everything necessary: passport control and customs zones, check-in counters, a small Duty Free shop, and a waiting lounge. Since there are fewer international flights, the atmosphere here is usually calmer.

Moving between terminals is effortless — they are within walking distance of each other. The airport layout is logical, and thanks to its compact size, getting lost is practically impossible. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated, and signs in Farsi and English help quickly find the necessary boarding gate or baggage claim area.

Check-in and security procedures at Kish Airport usually proceed quite quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance: 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing, even during periods of high traffic.

The history of Kish International Airport (KIH) is inextricably linked with ambitious plans to transform the eponymous island into a major tourist centre. The airport was founded and opened in 1977 as part of a large-scale project initiated by the last Shah of Iran. The initial idea was to create a world-class luxury resort on Kish Island that could compete with the world's best beach destinations, and the modern airport was intended to be its main gateway for international guests.

Following the events of the Iranian Revolution in 1979, the initial plans were adjusted. A new stage in the airport's development began in the 1990s when the island received the status of a Free Trade Zone (Kish Free Zone). This decision gave a powerful impetus to the development of tourism and trade, and Kish Airport became a key element of the infrastructure. It began actively accepting domestic flights, connecting the island with the country's largest cities, as well as regional international charters.

Over the past decades, the airport has repeatedly undergone reconstruction and modernisation to cope with the growing passenger flow. Terminals have been expanded and renovated, the runway lengthened to accommodate larger aircraft, and the navigation system improved. All these changes were aimed at enhancing the comfort and safety of passengers arriving for their holiday.

Today, Kish International Airport is one of the busiest in Iran, especially during peak tourist seasons. It is a prime example of how an infrastructure project conceived in one era has successfully adapted to new realities and become a vital transport hub, serving millions of tourists annually and contributing to the economic prosperity of the entire island.

Kish International Airport offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Cafes and restaurants operate within the terminals where one can have a snack before departure, as well as several shops. In these, you can purchase souvenirs, local delicacies, travel essentials, and press. This allows you not only to pass the time but also to buy last-minute gifts for loved ones.

For those who value enhanced comfort, CIP and VIP lounges are provided with comfortable seating, drinks, and snacks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport territory, allowing you to stay connected or attend to work matters. Special stands with power outlets and USB ports are equipped for charging electronic devices.

Bank branches and currency exchange points function within the terminal building, which is particularly convenient for foreign tourists. In case of necessity, passengers can visit the medical point for first aid. For travellers with small children, a mother and child room is equipped where one can care for the baby in a calm environment.

The airport is also equipped with everything necessary to serve passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms. Although there are no hotels directly within the terminal building, numerous hotels to suit any taste and budget are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. For business travellers, services of business centres located in VIP lounges or nearby hotels may be available.

At Kish International Airport (KIH), passengers will find several options for a snack or a full meal, concentrated mainly in the main terminal. Although the selection may not be as extensive as in major global hubs, you can spend time comfortably here while waiting for your flight.

For those in a hurry, small cafes and coffee shops operate in the departure zones (both before and after security control). Here you can quickly order sandwiches, pastries, local sweets, and, of course, aromatic Iranian tea or coffee. This is an excellent option for a light breakfast or a quick snack. The opening hours of such establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule, so they are open to serve passengers of morning and evening departures.

If you have more time to spare, it is worth paying attention to restaurants offering a more substantial menu. Most often, they are located in the public area (landside), before passport control and security. Here you can try dishes of Iranian cuisine: various types of kebabs with rice, traditional thick soups (Ash), or saffron rice dishes. This is a wonderful opportunity to acquaint yourself with local gastronomy before flying out. Prices in airport restaurants are generally higher than in the city but remain at an acceptable level.

Regarding dietary preferences, practically all food in Iran is Halal by default, and the airport is no exception. Vegetarians will also find it easy to find suitable dishes — the menu often includes rice sides, vegetable salads, and dishes based on aubergines or lentils. The situation is more complex with vegan and gluten-free options — their availability is best checked directly with the establishment's staff, as special labelling may be missing.

Planning a trip through Kish International Airport will be easier if you take a few tips into account. To avoid rushing, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic ones. This time is usually sufficient to complete all formalities, especially during peak hours.

To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides such an option. Keep your passport, visa (if required), and ticket ready. Security screening procedures at airports in Iran can be quite thorough, so please treat them with understanding and patience. Pack electronics and liquids so they can be easily removed for inspection.

The choice of seat on the plane depends on your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. Check with the airline if seat selection is a paid service to avoid unforeseen expenses.

It is forbidden to carry liquids in containers larger than 100 ml, sharp objects, flammable substances, and weapons in hand luggage. Please pay special attention that bringing alcohol into Iran is strictly prohibited in any form, including souvenirs. Always check the current baggage allowance rules on your airline's website to avoid problems during screening.

If you have a connecting flight at the airport of Kish Island, clarify in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Follow the "Transit/Connections" signs to quickly find the necessary gate. Having free time between flights will allow you to calmly go through all procedures and rest.

When passing through customs control, be prepared to present your belongings for inspection. Large sums of cash and valuable items are generally subject to declaration. It is recommended to familiarise yourself with Iran's customs regulations in advance to avoid misunderstandings.

To save time and money, check in for your flight online, travel with hand luggage to avoid paying for baggage, and book your airport transfer in advance. Currency exchange at the airport often has a less favourable rate, so it is better to have some local money with you or exchange a small amount upon arrival.

In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative first. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for expenses incurred due to the delay — they may be needed to claim compensation.