Dayrestan Airport

Dayrestan Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to the world of the "Island of Seven Wonders" in the Persian Gulf. Located in the heart of Qeshm Island, it welcomes travellers with the warm breath of the desert and the promise of unforgettable adventures amidst unique geological parks and mangrove forests. Landing here is often accompanied by picturesque views of turquoise waters and the Martian-like landscapes of the coast, setting the mood for an Eastern tale from the very first minutes.

Airport Features and Advantages:

Dayrestan Airport offers several key benefits for tourists planning to explore the island:

• Strategic Location: Although the airport is situated at a distance from the main city of Qeshm, it is located in the geographical centre of the island. This makes it an ideal starting point for trips to natural wonders such as the Chahkooh Canyon, the Valley of Stars, and the Hara Forests, which are faster to reach from here than from the island's capital.
• Special Visa Status: Since Qeshm Island is a Free Economic Zone, entry rules via this airport may differ from mainland Iran (a 14-day visa-free regime often applies to citizens of many countries arriving directly, though it is recommended to check current regulations before flying).
• Compactness and Comfort: The small terminal ensures quick passage through passport control and baggage claim without the hustle and bustle typical of large hubs. It is easy to navigate here, and the staff are usually friendly towards international guests.

Below you will find contact information for Dayrestan International Airport (GSM), serving the island of Qeshm. We recommend checking the validity of the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: Generally, information can be found on the Iranian airports website. Try visiting qeshm.airport.ir for the most up-to-date data.
• Inquiry Service Phone: The main number for inquiries is +98 76 3533 5040. Please note that staff may speak primarily Farsi.
• Airport Address: Iran, Hormozgan Province, Qeshm Island, Dayrestan Airport (Qeshm International Airport, Dayrestan, Qeshm Island, Hormozgan Province, Iran).
• Email: A public email address for general questions is rarely used. For communication, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the official website, if available.
• Social Media: Information regarding official social media pages is best sought on the airport's website.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, you should immediately contact the Lost and Found counter in the arrivals hall or your airline's representative office.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and support, please use the airport inquiry service phone number.

Dayrestan Airport (Qeshm International Airport), the island's main air hub, is located approximately 50 km west of the city of Qeshm. Despite the distance, there are several ways to get there from the city or your hotel, each with its own features.

Taxi and Transfer — the most common and reliable option. The journey from the city centre to the airport takes an average of 45-50 minutes. You can order a car via the hotel reception or find a vehicle at designated stands. It is extremely important to agree on the fare in advance, as not all cars are equipped with meters. The estimated price is 1,500,000 – 2,000,000 Iranian Rials. For tourists, especially those travelling with luggage, this is the most comfortable and quickest method.

A more economical alternative is the "savari" — a local type of shared taxi. These cars run along popular routes and depart as they fill up with passengers. The cost of a trip on a "savari" is significantly lower than a private taxi — about 300,000 – 500,000 Rials per person. However, be prepared that the trip may take longer due to stops to drop off other passengers. This is an interesting experience if you are travelling light and wish to save money.

Car Rental — an excellent choice for those who want to explore the island independently. By renting a car, you will not depend on transport schedules and can comfortably reach the airport as well as visit the island's numerous attractions. An International Driving Permit is generally required for rental. Dayrestan Airport has a car park where vehicles can be left for both short and long periods.

As for public transport, regular bus services between the city and the airport are poorly developed and may be irregular. If you are considering this option, we strongly advise confirming the current schedule and routes locally — for example, at your hotel or the bus station. This method is suitable only for the most budget-conscious travellers with flexible schedules.

Dayrestan Airport on Qeshm Island is a small and compact aviation hub served by a single passenger terminal. The terminal building is used for both domestic and international flights, which significantly simplifies navigation for travellers.

The airport layout is extremely simple. The terminal consists of one main building where all key zones are within walking distance of each other. Since there is only one terminal, there is no issue of transferring between buildings — you won't have to waste time moving around the airport territory. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated but located close by, making the arrival and departure process quick and convenient.

The departure zone includes check-in counters, a security screening point, and a small waiting lounge. The arrival zone consists of a passport control area for international flights and a baggage claim belt, after which passengers enter the general hall and proceed to the airport exit. All infrastructure is concentrated in one place, eliminating the possibility of getting lost.

Thanks to the airport's modest size and lower passenger traffic compared to major hubs, passing through all pre-flight procedures, such as check-in and security screening, usually takes significantly less time. On average, this takes no more than 30-40 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2.5 hours before an international one to avoid unforeseen delays.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which are usually duplicated in English. Airport staff are always ready to help and suggest directions. The main advice is not to worry about complex maps and long walks. At Dayrestan Airport, everything is intuitive and located very compactly.

The history of Dayrestan Airport (GSM) is inextricably linked with the development of Qeshm Island as an important economic and tourist centre of Iran. The air harbour was built and commissioned in 1970. Initially, its main task was to ensure transport links between the picturesque but remote island and the mainland, as well as to support local residents and developing infrastructure.

A turning point in the airport's history was the 1990s, when Qeshm Island received the status of a Free Trade and Industrial Zone. This step triggered a sharp increase in business activity and tourist interest in the region. To meet new requirements, the airport began to develop actively. A key achievement was obtaining international status in 1997, which allowed it to receive direct flights from neighbouring countries, primarily the UAE. This event significantly increased passenger traffic and strengthened Dayrestan's role as a strategically important transport hub in the Persian Gulf.

In the 21st century, the modernization of the airport continued. To increase capacity and improve passenger comfort, expansion and reconstruction works were carried out. In particular, a new, more modern passenger terminal was built and opened, capable of serving the growing number of tourists and business people. Today, Dayrestan Airport is equipped with everything necessary to receive both domestic and international flights, playing a key role in the island's economy.

Interesting fact: the airport received the name "Dayrestan" from the village of the same name located nearby. The history of the airport is not just a chronicle of building runways and terminals, but a clear example of how modern infrastructure can become a catalyst for unlocking the unique natural and economic potential of an entire region, making it accessible to travellers from all over the world.

Dayrestan Airport (GSM) on Qeshm Island, despite its compact size, offers passengers a necessary set of services for a comfortable wait before departure. All conditions are created here so that your journey begins and ends with convenience.

For those wishing to have a snack before the flight, small cafes and snack bars operate in the terminal, where you can order light meals, pastries, and drinks. Shops are also open, where you can purchase souvenirs, local delicacies, and travel goods. For a more comfortable wait, passengers can use the services of the VIP lounge, offering a secluded atmosphere and additional amenities.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones or handle work matters. Special stations are provided for charging gadgets. The terminal also has banking branches, ATMs, and a currency exchange office where necessary financial transactions can be made. In case of need, a medical point operates at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with children — there is a mother and child room. For travellers with reduced mobility, a barrier-free environment has been created, including ramps and specially equipped toilets. Airport staff are always ready to provide necessary assistance during boarding and disembarking. Although there are no hotels within the airport building itself, several accommodation options are located in the immediate vicinity. Specialized conference halls or business centres are absent in the airport, however, basic conditions for work can be found in the VIP lounge.

When planning a flight through Dayrestan Airport (GSM), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport. Dining options here are quite modest and designed primarily for passengers to grab a quick snack before departure, rather than for a full gastronomic experience. In the terminal building, you will find a few small cafes and snack bars, but do not expect a wide variety of restaurants.

Generally, the main food outlets are located in the public hall (before security control), and there may also be a small cafe in the departure zone (after control). The assortment in such establishments usually includes ready-made sandwiches, pastries, packaged snacks (chips, nuts, biscuits), as well as hot and cold drinks — tea, coffee, and sparkling water. This is a good option if you need to quickly satisfy your hunger or have a cup of coffee while waiting for your flight.

Although the selection is limited, you can find touches of local flavour here. Look out for traditional Iranian sweets or pastries that might be on sale. Regarding dietary restrictions, all food in Iran is Halal by default. Finding specifically labelled vegan or gluten-free dishes will be difficult, however, fruits or nuts may serve as a simple snack. Vegetarians can sometimes find cheese sandwiches or vegetable snacks.

Cafes and snack bars at Dayrestan Airport usually operate according to the flight schedule, opening a few hours before departure and closing after the last plane has left. Prices are generally quite moderate, especially compared to large international airports. If you are counting on a hearty lunch or dinner, the best solution would be to eat at one of the restaurants in the city of Qeshm before travelling to the airport, where the choice of dishes, including fresh seafood, is incomparably richer.

Planning a trip through Dayrestan Airport on the island of Qeshm? A few tips will help make your journey more comfortable and predictable. Dayrestan Airport (Qeshm International Airport, OIKQ) is the main aerial gateway to the island in Iran. Despite its relatively small size, we recommend arriving in advance: at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This time will be enough to go through all formalities without rushing.

To save time, check in for your flight online if your airline provides such a service. Check-in procedures at the counter and security control here are standard but can be quite thorough. Keep your passport and ticket ready. When passing through customs control, be prepared to declare large amounts of currency and valuables. Remember that the export of certain goods, for example, antiques, may be restricted.

Pay special attention to baggage and hand luggage regulations. It is strictly prohibited to bring any alcoholic products, pork, and materials that may be deemed unacceptable under local laws into Iran. These rules are strict and apply to both checked baggage and hand luggage. Standard restrictions on carrying liquids (in containers up to 100 ml) also apply.

To enjoy magnificent views of the island and the Persian Gulf, try to choose a window seat. If you have a layover planned at Dayrestan Airport, note that it is a small terminal with a basic set of services. For a comfortable wait during a long connection, it is better to have a book, a charged power bank, or pre-downloaded movies with you.

To save money, order a taxi only at official counters in the arrivals hall or use local transport apps. Prices from private drivers may be inflated. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline representative. According to international rules, you should be provided with information on further actions, and in case of a long wait — drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation.