CIP
Terminal
Terminal 1
Main hub
Hotels
Opposite T1
Metro
Airport station
Tehran
~30 km
THR
Mehrabad
One main terminal, short walks and a few things worth knowing.
Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) is Iran's main international hub and the base for Iran Air, Mahan Air and other regional carriers, connecting Iran with the Middle East, Europe, Asia and beyond. It lies about 30 kilometres southwest of Tehran, along the Tehran–Qom highway.
This guide covers the terminal layout, transfers, visa-on-arrival counters, security checkpoints, getting into Tehran and connecting to domestic flights at Mehrabad.
Quick answer
Most international flights at IKA use the main Passenger Terminal 1, where departures, arrivals and gates are under one roof, so you can walk between gates. Allow extra time if you need a visa on arrival, are on separate tickets or are connecting to a domestic flight, which usually leaves from Mehrabad Airport (THR) across the city.
Tehran IKA Navigation at a Glance
The essentials in one table
| Airport code | IKA, Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport |
|---|---|
| Main terminal | Passenger Terminal 1, used by most international flights |
| Other terminals | CIP Terminal; Salam Terminal for pilgrimage and selected flights |
| Getting to Tehran | Metro, official airport taxis, CIP transfers and hotel shuttles |
| Checkpoints | Passport control and security on both arrival and departure |
| Domestic flights | Mostly from Mehrabad Airport (THR) in Tehran |
Understanding the Layout of Terminal 1
Split-level design: pick a level
Terminal 1 is a large, multi-level building designed for split-level processing: departures upstairs, arrivals downstairs. Boarding gates extend from the central hall, so walking distances to the gates are short.
Departures
On this level
- Check-in counters and ticketing
- Passport control and security for departures
- Departure lounge, shops and duty-free
- Boarding gates along the concourse
Arrivals
On this level
- Passport control for arrivals
- Visa-on-arrival and travel insurance counters
- Baggage claim and customs
- Transfer counters and the arrivals exit to taxis
Central terminal
Ticketing, security, arrivals and international gates are in Terminal 1.
Escalators and lifts
Levels are linked by escalators, lifts and central walkways.
Short walks
Gates run along the concourse from the central hall, so walks are short.
CIP Terminal
A separate building next to the main terminal for CIP and fast-track services.
Terminals and Airports Explained
Tap to compare
To get around Tehran's airports, it helps to know which building handles what, and that most domestic flights use a different airport altogether.
Terminal 1
Used by: Most international commercial flights, including Iran Air and Mahan Air
The main multi-level terminal with check-in halls, transfer counters, passport control, duty-free and the gates.
CIP Terminal
Used by: CIP and business passengers who book the service, and private flights
A separate building with its own security, personal baggage handling and lounge.
Salam Terminal
Used by: Pilgrimage flights such as Hajj and Umrah, and selected charters
Has its own passport and customs posts; check with your airline if your booking shows it.
Mehrabad (THR)
Used by: Most domestic flights within Iran
A different airport inside Tehran, around 40–50 km away by road; you need a taxi or metro to get there.
Getting Around Inside IKA
Everything under one roof
Escalators, lifts and walkways
All main areas are linked internally, so you can move between levels easily.
Short walks to the gates
From the central security checkpoints to the gates is a short walk.
Flight information screens
Screens throughout the departure area show gates and flight status.
Getting from IKA to Tehran
Pick your option
Metro
The airport has its own metro station, linking IKA with Tehran's metro network via Shahed station. It is the budget option, best with light luggage; check operating hours for late arrivals.
Official airport taxis
Official taxis wait outside the main arrivals exit around the clock. Use the official service and agree the fare and payment before you set off; remember foreign bank cards do not work in Iran.
Airport hotels
The airport hotel complex opposite Terminal 1, formerly operated as a Novotel and an Ibis, is a short walk from the terminal. Ideal for late arrivals and early departures.
CIP transfers
CIP packages can include private transport arrangements. Book the service in advance and confirm what is included.
How to Transfer Between International Flights
On a single ticket
Follow transfer signs
After leaving the aircraft, follow the "Transfer" or "Transit" signs on the arrivals level.
Visit the transfer desk
Show your ticket and passport to get your onward boarding pass and confirm your checked bags.
Clear security
Pass through transfer security into the upper-level departure lounge.
Go to your gate
Check the screens for your gate and walk to your boarding area.
Connection Times and Requirements
Pick your connection type
What you need to do
Transfer desk, security screening, then straight to your gate.
Suggested buffer
At least 1 hour
What you need to do
Entry clearance or visa, baggage claim, re-check in the departure hall and security.
Suggested buffer
At least 2 hours
What you need to do
Immigration, baggage claim, a cross-city transfer to Mehrabad (THR) and new check-in.
Suggested buffer
At least 4 hours
Essential Navigation Highlights
IKA in eight points
Navigate Tehran IKA with Confidence
With most international flights in one main terminal, IKA is simple to navigate on foot. The key things to plan are visa-on-arrival time, connections on separate tickets and transfers to Mehrabad for domestic flights. Carry cash, keep your documents ready and give yourself a comfortable buffer.
