The Iranian poultry industry which, with nearly 1.2 million tonnes of output, is the largest in the Middle East, is ranked fourth in Asia and 17th in the world. It has moved a long way from the setting of the backyard to become a multibillion dollar business. Its output has increased threefold over the last decade alone, and its products have changed from being a one-time luxury food to something that is found on everyone's table. Although the systems for producing poultry in Iran have undergone drastic changes, had many ups and downs and experienced great difficulties, the industry has never been under greater pressure than it finds itself at present. This paper is intended to provide an overall picture of poultry production in Iran. The historical development, the current aspects of production that typically influence yields and the outlook for the future will all be reviewed. The way that the poultry industry has developed and is now functioning has its own unique characteristics in Iran and deserves special mention.