A long night at Tehran IKA? Here is where to rest, shower and recharge.
Stuck on an overnight layover or catching an early flight at Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA)? From the airport hotels opposite Terminal 1 and the CIP terminal to quiet corners and gate seating, this guide shows your options, whether you can stay airside, and how to plan a comfortable night in Tehran.
Tonight's options
Hotels next door
The airport hotels are opposite Terminal 1, a short walk from departures.
Day-use rooms
Short-stay or day-use rooms may be available; ask the hotel.
Quiet spaces
Prayer rooms are open around the clock; rest quietly outside prayer times.
Bring cash
Foreign Visa and Mastercard cards do not work in Iran; carry USD or EUR.
Where to Sleep at Tehran IKA Airport
Pick an option to see the details
Airport hotel complex opposite Terminal 1
The airport hotel complex located directly opposite Terminal 1 offers the most comfortable stay at IKA, featuring private rooms with en-suite showers.
Because the hotels are landside, you need to pass immigration and enter Iran to use them. Ask about day-use or short-stay rooms if you only need a few hours.
At a glance
- Private room and en-suite shower
- Restaurant and breakfast
- Best for 6 hours or a full night
IKA CIP terminal
The CIP (Commercially Important Person) service offers a more private experience with dedicated check-in and immigration assistance, a lounge with refreshments and transport to and from the aircraft.
Rest areas and facilities depend on the package. Ask whether private rest rooms or showers are included when you book.
At a glance
- Dedicated assistance and lounge
- Refreshments and Wi-Fi
- Must be booked in advance
Prayer rooms (namaz khaneh)
Terminal 1 has carpeted, climate-controlled prayer rooms open around the clock, with separate areas for men and women. Some travellers rest quietly here outside prayer times.
These are places of worship, so be respectful: remove your shoes, keep bags tidy, avoid lying across prayer spaces and leave room for worshippers during prayer times.
At a glance
- Quiet and carpeted
- Open around the clock
- Respect prayer times
Terminal 1 gate areas
Seating in the departure gate areas is the basic free option if you stay airside. Seats usually have armrests, and the areas can feel chilly at night, especially in winter.
Restrooms are nearby, but power outlets can be limited and there are no showers.
At a glance
- Free and close to your gate
- Armrests and limited outlets
- Best for short waits
Comparing Your Sleep Options
Comfort, showers and the best fit
| Option | Location | Comfort | Shower | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport hotels | Landside | Private room | Yes, en-suite | 6+ hours or overnight |
| CIP terminal | Separate building | Private lounge | Depends on package | Premium layovers |
| Prayer rooms | Airside & landside | Quiet, carpeted | No | Short rest |
| Gate seating | Airside | Basic seats | No | Under 3 hours |
Airside or Landside?
Your visa status decides your options
The most important question for an overnight stay at IKA is whether you will stay airside or enter Iran. The airport hotels are landside, so you need to pass immigration to use them.
- No need to pass immigration or enter Iran
- Options are limited to gate seating, prayer rooms and airside facilities
- Best for short layovers and travellers without an Iranian visa
- Needed to use the airport hotels opposite Terminal 1
- Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival or enter visa-free; check your eligibility before travelling
- Allow time to clear immigration and security again before your next flight
Your Plan by Layover Length
Pick your connection time
Under 4 hours
Recommended plan
- Stay airside near your gate
- Rest in gate seating or quietly in a prayer room
- Grab food and charge your phone
4–8 hours
Recommended plan
- Consider a CIP package or a day-use hotel room, if you can enter Iran
- A shower and a nap make a big difference
- Leave time to return through immigration and security
Overnight
Recommended plan
- An airport hotel room gives you a real bed and shower
- Settle your plans and bring cash before you land
- Set two alarms and check in early for your flight
Layover Tips for Tehran IKA
Small things that make a long night easier
Foreign cards do not work
Because of banking restrictions, foreign Visa, Mastercard and Amex cards are not accepted in Iran. Carry cash in USD or EUR for hotels, food, taxis and the CIP service. Tourist debit cards are also available.
Pack a warm layer
Gate areas in Terminal 1 can feel chilly overnight, especially in autumn and winter. Keep a sweater, scarf or travel blanket in your hand luggage.
Know your visa status
To reach the airport hotels you must clear immigration and enter Iran. Many nationalities qualify for a visa on arrival or visa-free entry; check before you fly.
Wi-Fi and SIM cards
Free Wi-Fi in Terminal 1 needs an SMS code. Tourist SIM cards from local operators are sold in the arrivals hall.
Your IKA Overnight Kit
Pack these in your hand luggage
Plan Your Stay at Tehran IKA
Make your layover easier
CIP service
Dedicated assistance, a private lounge and transport to and from the aircraft.
Airport hotel
A real bed and shower opposite Terminal 1 for long layovers.
Transfers to Tehran
A pre-arranged ride to central Tehran or Mehrabad Airport.
