City in Razavi Khorasan Province, Iran
Is Mashhad LGBTQ+ friendly?
Is Mashhad LGBTQ+ friendly?
Same-sex acts are criminal and can carry the death penalty; Mashhad is among Iran's most religious cities. Total discretion is essential.
LGBTQ+ laws in Iran
No visible scene and severe persecution. Gender change is legal only after surgery, a policy used to pressure gay people. Total discretion is essential.
| Status | |
|---|---|
| Same-sex relationships legal | No |
| Same-sex marriage | No |
| Civil unions or partnerships | No |
| Legal gender change | Yes |
| Anti-discrimination law | No |
| Legal penalty | Death penalty for sex between men; flogging for other same-sex acts. |
LGBTQ+ friendliness across Iran
Quick answers
Is Mashhad safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?
Same-sex acts are criminal and can carry the death penalty; Mashhad is among Iran's most religious cities. Total discretion is essential.
Is same-sex marriage legal in Iran?
No.
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Sources
Ratings combine national law with local attitudes and the scene. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.