Everything you need at Tehran Imam Khomeini Airport, in one guide.
Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) is Tehran's main international gateway. It offers passenger services, dining and shopping, transport connections and help for travellers with different needs.
From check-in and baggage to the CIP lounge and getting into the city, this guide covers the facilities and practical tips for a smoother journey through Tehran.
Services directory
2 terminals
Terminal 1 and the Salam Terminal
CIP service
Premium assistance and lounge
Metro link
Connection to Tehran's network
Cash matters
Foreign cards generally do not work
How Many Terminals Does Tehran IKA Have?
Tap a terminal
Imam Khomeini International Airport is about 30 kilometres southwest of central Tehran. Terminal assignments depend on the airline, route and schedule, so confirm your departure terminal with your airline before travelling.
Terminal 1
Terminal 1 is the airport's established passenger terminal and handles international passenger traffic. Most international travellers depart and arrive here.
What you will find
- Check-in counters, immigration and security
- Baggage claim and arrivals hall
- Restaurants, shops and currency exchange
- Prayer rooms and passenger assistance
Salam Terminal
The Salam Terminal supports additional passenger operations and selected flight programmes. Facilities here are not identical to Terminal 1.
What you will find
- Used for selected flights and programmes
- Check your airline's instructions
- Do not assume the same facilities as Terminal 1
Across the airport you will find check-in counters, immigration and security checkpoints, baggage claim, restaurants, shops, currency exchange, prayer rooms and passenger assistance, plus ground transport to Tehran and nearby destinations.
Check-In and Baggage Services
From the counter to the carousel
Use your airline's check-in counter to show your travel documents, collect your boarding pass and check your luggage. Online check-in may be available, depending on the airline and route.
Arrive with enough time for check-in, bag drop, passport control and security, and keep your passport, visa or entry documents and booking details to hand.
Baggage services include baggage claim on arrival, help with lost or delayed bags, and luggage wrapping.
Baggage and check-in services
- Airline check-in counters and boarding passes
- Checked baggage according to airline rules
- Baggage claim in the arrivals area
- Luggage wrapping
- Help with delayed, damaged or missing bags
- Information desks for general enquiries
Lost property and baggage help
Ask an airport information desk or the airport police. A published airport-services directory lists these airport police numbers:
Immigration and Security at Tehran IKA
What to expect at the checkpoints
International arrivals complete passport control and any visa or entry procedures before baggage claim and customs. Departing passengers go through document checks and security before entering the departure area. Processing times depend on flight schedules, passenger numbers, nationality and documents, so allow plenty of time.
Keep documents ready
Passport, visa and other entry documents easy to reach.
Follow the signs
Departures, arrivals and transfer areas are signposted.
Check your bags
Know your baggage allowance and restricted-item rules.
Follow officers' instructions
Listen to immigration and security staff.
Ask if unsure
Staff can help with any unclear document or checkpoint.
CIP Lounge and Premium Services
A more personal airport experience
One of the standout premium facilities at Imam Khomeini International Airport is the CIP (Commercially Important Person) service. Rather than a standard departure lounge, CIP offers personal assistance with selected airport formalities plus dedicated relaxation areas.
Depending on the package, CIP can include help with check-in, baggage, passport control, refreshments and transport between the terminal and the aircraft. It suits business travellers, families, passengers who need extra help and anyone who prefers a more personal experience.
Commonly included
Dining and Shopping at Tehran IKA
Persian flavours and last-minute gifts
You will find restaurants serving Persian cuisine, cafés, snack outlets and shops selling travel essentials and Iranian products, a good chance to try traditional food or pick up refreshments before boarding. Outlets and opening hours vary by area, and not every restaurant or shop stays open all night.
Persian and regional dishes
Restaurants serving traditional Iranian and regional food.
Cafés and snacks
Coffee, tea, snacks and quick bites before your flight.
Duty-free and souvenirs
Duty-free, gifts, Iranian specialty foods and spices.
Transport and Accessibility Services
Pick an option
The airport is outside the city centre, so plan your onward journey before you arrive, especially for a late-night flight or a hotel booking.
Airport taxis
Airport taxis give you a direct ride to central Tehran, hotels and other destinations. Use the designated taxi arrangements in the ground transport area; prepaid or fixed-rate services may be available.
Use authorised airport transport, and agree the price, destination and payment method before setting off.
At a glance
- Direct to your hotel
- Agree the fare first
- Best with luggage or children
Metro and shared minibuses
A metro line links the airport with Tehran's public transport network. Shared minibuses also run between the airport and Shahid metro station.
Public transport suits travellers with light luggage. Check operating hours and onward connections, especially for late arrivals.
At a glance
- Budget-friendly
- Best with light luggage
- Check hours before you travel
Car rental and parking
Car rental may be available at the airport. If you plan to drive in Iran, confirm your eligibility, documents, insurance and accepted driving permits in advance.
Short-term and long-term parking serve passengers and visitors, with shuttles to some car parks.
At a glance
- Check permits and insurance
- Short- and long-term parking
- Shuttles to some car parks
Accessibility assistance
The airport has lifts, accessible toilets and assistance for elderly and disabled travellers.
Ask your airline in advance for a wheelchair, help getting around the terminal or boarding assistance, so staff can coordinate support.
At a glance
- Lifts and accessible toilets
- Help for elderly travellers
- Book assistance with your airline
Currency Exchange, Banking and Money
Plan your cash before you land
Important for international travellers
Bank cards issued outside Iran generally cannot be used for payments or cash withdrawals, because of restrictions affecting Iran's banking system. Plan how you will access local currency before you travel.
Currency exchange counters and banking services, including Iranian banks and exchange providers, are available at Imam Khomeini International Airport. Currencies accepted, exchange rates, opening hours and payment methods can change, so use authorised exchange providers.
Wi-Fi, Charging and Digital Services
Staying connected at IKA
Wi-Fi is available in parts of the terminal, including departure and arrival areas. Access may require a mobile number to receive a verification code by SMS, which can be tricky if you do not have a working local number or roaming.
Charging points are available in passenger areas, including arrivals and departures. Arrange mobile connectivity before you arrive, and do not assume every network or online service will be accessible.
Digital facilities
- Wi-Fi in designated terminal areas
- Device charging points
- Flight information displays
- Information desks for navigation
- Airline websites and digital boarding passes, where supported
Medical Help, Families and Prayer Rooms
Support for every traveller
Medical and emergency help
First aid and emergency medical services are available. If you feel unwell or are injured, tell airport staff or security, who will direct you to help.
Carry essential medication in line with travel rules and keep medical information to hand.
Families with children
Allow extra time for check-in, security, immigration and boarding, and keep children's documents handy. A children's play area and baby-care facilities are listed in airport directories; ask an information desk for directions.
Pack infant essentials in your hand luggage and check airline rules for strollers and child seats.
Prayer rooms and relaxation
Prayer rooms are available in departure, arrival and transit areas. The airport also has designated smoking areas; follow terminal signs.
Dedicated sleeping areas and showers are not standard; for comfort on a long wait, consider the CIP lounge or an airport hotel.
Airport Hotels and Overnight Stays
Rest close to your flight
For early departures, late arrivals or long connections, staying near the airport can be easier than travelling into central Tehran.
Novotel Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport
Opposite Terminal 1 and within walking distance of the terminal, with hotel shuttle arrangements also available. Confirm availability, transfers and check-in directly with the hotel.
Airport hotels are especially useful for business travellers, families and passengers who want to rest before a long international flight.
Before you book
- Distance from your terminal
- Whether a shuttle is available
- Check-in and check-out times
- Restaurant and on-site facilities
- Cancellation and booking conditions
Information Desks and Customer Support
Your first stop for help
Airport information desks, listed as operating around the clock, help you find check-in counters, baggage claim, transport, currency exchange, prayer rooms and other facilities. They are also the best first stop for lost property or for finding the right airline contact.
For flight changes, delays, baggage allowances and ticket questions, your airline is the main point of contact.
Ask the information desk about
- Directions to check-in and baggage claim
- Transport to Tehran
- Currency exchange and prayer rooms
- Lost property and baggage enquiries
- Finding your airline's service counter
Your Guide to a Smooth Journey Through Tehran Airport
Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport offers check-in and baggage services, dining and shopping, currency exchange, Wi-Fi, transport links, accessibility assistance and premium CIP services.
Confirm your terminal, check your airline's requirements, sort out your cash and plan your onward transport before you travel, and you will move through IKA with confidence.
