Uzbekistan, with its rich history and vibrant culture, offers a fascinating experience for foreign residents. To make your stay more comfortable, it’s important to understand the local lifestyle, practical resources, and services. This guide highlights everything you need to know about living in Uzbekistan, from finding accommodation to exploring traditional dishes, navigating transportation, managing finances, and using essential apps.
Expat communities for networking
Expats in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
This group is for expats living in Uzbekistan, specifically in Tashkent. The aim is to help foreigners, inform them with events and fun activities, and also find lots of new friends.
This Facebook-group is for expats living or working in Uzbekistan or if you are a foreigner planning to visit Uzbekistan, then this group is for you. You can find advice, support, and even friendship.
More communities here.
How to find housing
Etagi
Etagi is a platform for renting apartments in Tashkent, offering various housing options with filters for price, size, and location. In addition to local listings, Etagi provides legal support services and consultations on rental matters.
OLX.uz is one of the largest classified ads websites in Uzbekistan, where you can find long-term apartment rentals. Users can search for housing based on various criteria, including price, the number of rooms, and amenities. The platform also offers a mobile app, making it more convenient and accessible for users to search for rentals.
More about housing here.
Must-try national dishes
Plov
Plov, or pilaf, is the crown jewel of Uzbek cuisine and a must-try for anyone visiting the country. This hearty dish is made with rice, pieces of meat — usually lamb or beef, onions, carrots, and a blend of aromatic spices. Sometimes, chickpeas, raisins, or barberries are added for an extra touch of flavor. Traditionally cooked in a large, shallow pan called a kazan, plov is often served at celebrations and family gatherings. Each region in Uzbekistan has its own variation, making it a dish worth trying more than once.
Samsa
Samsa are savory pastries filled with meat, usually lamb or beef, and sometimes vegetables. These triangular pockets of goodness are baked in a tandyr, a traditional clay oven, which gives them a crispy, flaky crust. The filling is typically seasoned with onions, black cumin, and other spices, creating a mouthwatering combination. Samsa are often enjoyed as a snack or a light meal and are readily available from street vendors and cafes.
More dishes here.
Transport
Buses
In Uzbekistan, both public and tourist buses are available for travel. City buses operate from 6 AM to 11 PM, with departures every 15-20 minutes. However, they can get quite crowded, which may make traveling uncomfortable. A great alternative is the tourist buses, which not only take you to your desired location but also share fascinating insights about Uzbekistan's history during the journey.
Metro
The metro system in Uzbekistan, particularly in Tashkent, is not just a mode of transportation, it’s also a cultural experience. Each station is designed with intricate mosaics, stunning chandeliers, and unique themes that reflect the country's rich history and heritage.
More about transport here.
Banks and finances
National Bank of Uzbekistan
As the largest and one of the oldest state-owned banks, NBU offers a wide range of financial products for individuals and businesses. Expats can open accounts here, and the bank offers both Uzbek som, UZS and foreign currency accounts.
Asaka Bank
As another major state-owned bank, Asaka Bank focuses heavily on providing credit to businesses but also offers services for individuals. It’s popular for its robust online banking platform, which can be a convenience for expats.
More about banks here.
Mobile communication and internet
Ucell
Ucell is one of the leading mobile operators in Uzbekistan. It offers a variety of prepaid and postpaid plans, including options for mobile data, international calls, and domestic communication. Ucell has a wide coverage network across the country, especially in urban areas, and offers high-speed 3G and 4G services in many regions.
Beeline Uzbekistan
Beeline is another major mobile operator, part of the international VEON group. Beeline offers affordable mobile services with competitive pricing for calls, SMS, and mobile internet. It provides 3G and 4G coverage in many cities and towns, and offers a variety of data packages for both prepaid and postpaid customers.
More about mobile communications here.
Essential apps
Yandex is a major transportation service in Uzbekistan. You can travel to any point in the city at very low prices.
The most popular marketplace in Uzbekistan. In just two years, nearly every resident has used it to order something.
Another project by Yandex, providing information about venues and locations in cities.
More apps here.
