Qatar Airways has unveiled plans to launch new domestic services in Iran.

Following a requested to operate routes in the country earlier this year, chief executive Akbar Al Baker confirmed the routes would be launched “within weeks.”

“We are going to add three more new destinations within a few weeks into Iran so that we serve that very large market in a very strong way,” Al Baker told Arabian Business.

When launched, the routes will make the Doha-based carrier the first foreign airline to operate in Iran.

Qatar Airways already services routes between Doha and the Iranian cities of Tehran, Shiraz and Mashhad.

The carrier recently signed a massive deal with Airbus for more than 50 jets, while also outlining seven new routes set for launch in 2012.

Qatar Airways is recognised as offering the Middle East’s Leading Airline Business Class by the prestigious World Travel Awards.