Time Zone |
Asia/Tehran |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+3.5 |
Daylight Saving Time |
UTC+4.5 |
Time Zone |
Pacific/Tarawa |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+12 |
Daylight Saving Time |
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
Tehran is the capital and largest city of the Islamic Republic of Iran, located in the northern part of the country in the southern foothills of the Elburz Mountains at an altitude of about 1,200 meters above sea level. As a political, economic and cultural center, Tehran has a population of more than 8 million and is one of the major metropolitan areas in the Middle East.
Tehran became the capital of Persia at the end of the 18th century and retains a wealth of historical monuments such as the Gulestan Palace and the Freedom Memorial Tower. The city blends traditional Persian culture with modern developments, with museums, bazaars (traditional markets) and mosques showcasing its diverse face.
The city is Iran's industrial, financial and transportation hub, known for its petrochemical and textile industries. Tehran's metro system is one of the busiest in the Middle East, but traffic congestion and air pollution remain challenges. Residents are mostly native speakers of Persian, and Islamic customs deeply influence daily life.
The surrounding Elburz Mountains offer skiing and hiking resources, and Damavand Peak is the highest volcano in Asia. Tourists often visit the Museum of Treasures and the Palace of Saad Abad to experience the glorious history of the Persian Empire.
Tarawa, Kiribati is the capital and largest city of the Pacific island nation of Kiribati, located in the central Gilbert Islands near the equator, comprising a number of coral islands, and is the political, economic and cultural center of the country. Densely populated, Tararawa has Kiribati's only international airport and main port, and is a transportation hub with domestic and international connections. Known for its unique maritime culture and fragile ecosystem, this island nation is at the forefront of global concerns about the climate crisis as low-lying islands such as Tarawa are threatened with submergence due to rising sea levels as a result of global climate change. Despite this, the region has maintained a simple island life style and traditional seafaring culture.