Afghanistan’s National Statistics and Information Authority, controlled by the Taliban, registered the entry and exit of 5,196 foreign nationals through the country’s border crossings and airports during June and July, according to newly released data.
Of that number, 3,042 people entered Afghanistan and 2,362 departed. Women accounted for just under 5% of arrivals and about 3% of departures, the report said.
Officials said 467 visitors traveled to Afghanistan for tourism, including visits to historical and archaeological sites, while the remainder came for work or study.
The data show that 1,849 foreigners entered via the Nimroz border crossing, 470 through Herat’s land and air points, and others via Torkham, Hairatan, Aqina, Ishkashim and Balkh’s airport. Most entries – about 2,855 – were made overland, compared to 46 by air.
Previous reports suggested Taliban authorities have harbored suspicions toward some foreign visitors, particularly Russians, and have subjected them to monitoring. Analysts say the group is nevertheless seeking to promote limited tourism as a way to signal openness and claim improved security in Afghanistan.
The Taliban’s severe restrictions on women’s movement remain in place, which international organizations say have hindered access to healthcare and other essential services. Observers note that the presence of foreign women travelers, though limited, highlights a stark contrast with the constraints Afghan women face inside the country.
