About Shiraz
Shiraz is the capital of Fars province, one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the world. It is situated in southwestern Iran and is located at 1,800 meters above sea level. Shiraz is the birthplace of the great Persian poets Hafez and Saadi. There are many beautiful gardens (i.e. Eram Garden) and the Vakil Baazar is one of the places to shop for carpets, handicrafts and spices. About 50 km northwest of Shiraz lies Persepolis, the grand ceremonial capital built by Darius I and his successors some 2500 years ago.  

Travel Options to Shiraz
Shiraz can be reached directly through its international airport from neighbouring countries such as United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar and Kuwait by different airlines. However, daily flights are not available from all of the countries mentioned above. Another option would be to travel to Tehran and take a domestic flight to Shiraz (there are 5-6 flights per day between Shiraz-Tehran-Shiraz). Please note that Tehran has two international airports: Mehrabad International Airport and Imam Khomeini International Airport. Most flights from the Middle East will terminate at Imam Khomeini International Airport which is 30 km south of Tehran. However, domestic flights for Shiraz depart from Mehrabad Airport which is within the city.

It is recommended that you book your domestic flight in such a way as to allow sufficient time for transport between the two airports in Tehran.  

Passport and Visa Requirements
All visitors to Iran require a valid passport. Many nationalities are required to obtain an entry visa prior to arrival. The Conference Secretariat will assist participants in obtaining entry visas to Iran. Please note that sufficient time is needed to process the visa application, therefore it is advisable to apply for the visa well in advance. For further assistance and information on obtaining an entry visa to Iran please contact Ms. Bahadori at: sumscong@sums.ac.ir .   

Climate
The climate of Shiraz is characterized by four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. January is in winter. The average daytime temperature in Shiraz during the Conference will be in the range of 1°C-12°C. It is recommended that participants bring along a warm jacket or coat and an umbrella.

Time Difference
Shiraz local time is 3:30 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+3:30).  

Currency
The unit of Iranian currency is Rials. At the present time, the exchange rate is approximately 1US$ = 9000 Rials.  

Currency Exchange
Please note that credit cards and traveller’s checks are not accepted throughout Iran. It is advisable that participants bring along cash (preferably US dollars) to settle their accounts. In addition to banks at major international airports in Iran, there are a few banks in the vicinity of the Conference venue where foreign currency can be exchanged. Also there are official Bureau de Changes in the city (Zand Ave.) where it is also possible to exchange currency. Please take note that it is not safe to exchange your currency with unauthorized street vendors.  

Banking hours
Banking hours are from Saturday to Wednesday from 7:30 to 13:30. Banks close about one hour sooner on Thursdays. 

Electricity
Electricity is supplied at 220V.