The Asian Games were hosted in the Middle East for the first time.

Teheran, the capital of Iran, played host to 25 countries/NOCs, the highest number of participants since the inception of the Games. The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea entered the largest delegation.

Gymnastics and fencing were added to the existing disciplines. In addition to use of state-of-the-art technology, from synthetic track to photo-finish cameras, the Games were known for strict security measures due to reported threats from the Palestinians and a Japanese militant sect.

The Asian Games Federation conference, which was held ten months before the Games, decided to abolished Taiwan's entry and accepted that of the People's republic of China.

India won four gold medals, two less than at the 1970 edition.