In an age where narratives are often shaped by headlines and assumptions, Pakistani content creator Hamza Bhatti has taken a different path—one paved with curiosity, sincerity, and a desire to discover the truth beyond the surface.
His latest travel series to Iran does not just highlight stunning visuals or culinary adventures—it questions the one-dimensional image the world often has of Iran, largely shaped by Western media and propaganda.
Through his lens, Bhatti presents Iran not as a land of political tension or barren landscapes, but as a vibrant, living nation with deep-rooted culture, rich history, and hospitable people.
His content focuses on daily life, architecture, street food, Iranian coffee, traditions, and conversations with locals, offering viewers an unfiltered and humanized view of the country.
He traveled to and from Pakistan on Mahan Airlines, which is blacklisted by the US. He shared his flight experience, mentioning that the food, service, and overall experience were exceptional. The return flight cost only 100,000 Pakistani Rupees.
He tried Syrian, Lebanese, and Iranian street food, surprisingly which is available in Iran for under 500 Iranian Riyals only.
Traveling across multiple locations, Bhatti immerses himself in local customs and activities. From visiting Azaadi Tower, which was constructed by Shah Muhammad Reza, Mohammad Ali Jiannah Area, Iran Mall (World’s biggest mall), to the Tochal Telecabin (also known as Tochal Gondola Lift or Tochal Cable Car), which is considered one of the longest gondola lift lines in the world.
One of the most notable aspects of Bhatti’s Iran series is the massive response it received online. According to Bhatti, the content has amassed over 90 million views across platforms, making it one of the most-watched international travel series from Pakistan.
As shared on LinkedIn, Bhatti highlights how no one from the Pakistani digital community had explored Iran this way before, making his work both pioneering and impactful.
A unique highlight Bhatti shared was the currency contrast between Pakistan and Iran. Due to the massive difference in currency value, Pakistanis are often perceived as millionaires in Iran. 1000 PKR is currently 149063.20 Iranian Rial.
This unusual dynamic adds an interesting layer for Pakistani travelers, as even modest budgets can stretch significantly in Iran, allowing for a more comfortable travel experience.
This affordability, coupled with Iran’s hospitality, makes it an underrated destination for Pakistani tourists.
What sets this travel series apart is its neutral and people-centered approach. Rather than focusing on political narratives, Bhatti turns his attention to the Iranian people—their smiles, their resilience, their hospitality, and their stories. 
The tone of the series remains calm, observational, and reflective. His storytelling is layered with themes of cultural empathy, shared heritage, and the importance of seeing things for yourself.
For many viewers, especially those unfamiliar with Iran beyond what the news shows, this series serves as a refreshing and eye-opening journey.
The popularity of the series also demonstrates the growing power of digital creators to shape international understanding.
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In times where distrust and division dominate headlines, creators like Hamza Bhatti use storytelling to build bridges—one frame, one city, one conversation at a time.
For those interested in witnessing this journey, Hamza Bhatti’s Iran series is available on his YouTube channel and social media platforms, offering a front-row seat to a side of Iran rarely seen—and a reminder that travel, at its best, is about connection, discovery, and breaking down barriers.
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.
