From Amazon Prime’s spotlight on Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan's rising international connectivity and Kyrgyzstan’s growing tourism appeal — here’s a round-up of the latest developments across Central Asia.
Kazakhstan
Amazon Prime releases new episodes of a travel show about Kazakhstan
The American travel show Travel by Dart has released three new episodes about Kazakhstan on the global streaming service Amazon Prime.
The episodes introduce viewers to Kazakhstan’s landscapes and cultural heritage — from Almaty and the Shymbulak ski resort to destinations like Charyn Canyon, the Kolsai Lakes, and Altyn-Emel National Park.
Source: inform.kz
Kazakhstan introduces a "golden visa"
Kazakhstan has introduced new rules for obtaining an investor visa. Foreigners who invest at least $300 000 in a Kazakhstani company or local securities can now apply online and receive an investor visa. This visa allows them to obtain a residence permit in the country for up to 10 years.
Source: tengrinews.kz
Kazakhstan and Jordan to strengthen partnership in digital innovation and drone industries
The two countries expressed mutual interest in deepening their partnership in high-tech sectors to support economic growth and develop a competitive digital economy.
Source: inform.kz
Kazakhstan and Hong Kong to launch direct flights
Kazakhstan and Hong Kong are discussing the launch of passenger and cargo flights between the regions. These initiatives aim to strengthen aviation cooperation and open new opportunities for trade and logistics between the countries.
Source: inform.kz
Comedienne from Karaganda releases Kazakhstan’s first English-language stand-up special
A 32-minute recording marks Kazakhstan’s first full-length English-language stand-up comedy special. The project continues a series of English open mic events that Shugyla began organizing in Karaganda in late 2023. Since then, she has held around 10 shows in Astana, Karaganda, and Almaty.
Watch it here: youtube.com
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan named one of the top destinations for ethnic tourism
Kyrgyzstan has been included in The Guardian's list of top travel destinations for 2025. The article highlights unique opportunities for travelers to explore the culture, admire the landscapes, and connect with local communities while journeying through the Kyrgyz countryside.
Source: 24.kg
Uzbekistan
Centrum Air launches direct flights from Tashkent to Almaty and Baku
Starting May 5, Centrum Air will offer direct flights from Tashkent to Almaty and Baku, strengthening Uzbekistan’s connections with Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan.
Flights between Tashkent and Almaty will operate twice a week — on Mondays and Thursdays.
Source: gazeta.uz
High-speed trains from Tashkent to Khiva to launch by 2026
The railway will be able to serve over 3 million passengers per year. Travel time between Tashkent and Khiva will be cut nearly in half — from 14 hours to 7 hours and 40 minutes. Freight capacity will increase from 1 million to 6 million tons.
Source: spot.uz
Meta to adapt Llama AI model for the Uzbek language
Meta’s representative for Central Asia, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, Senura Abeywardena, proposed adapting AI systems for the Uzbek language and developing local big data infrastructure. He also expressed readiness to support Llama integration into government websites.
Source: spot.uz
AirAsia X plans flights from Kuala Lumpur to Tashkent
Malaysian airline AirAsia X is considering launching flights from Kuala Lumpur to Tashkent in October this year. The flights will operate three times a week. The airline may also offer connecting flights to other countries.
Source: kursiv.media
Uzbekistan’s “golden visa” now costs $250 000
The minimum required investment for foreign nationals to obtain a residence permit in Uzbekistan is now $250 000. The visa for immediate family members — parents, spouse, children, will cost $150 000. The document will be issued under a fast-track procedure and will be valid for five years starting June 1.
Source: spot.uz
New international tourism center "Arda Khiva" opens in Khorezm
The center spans 25 hectares of previously underproductive and saline land near Lake Govuk in Khiva. Green zones are being developed around the lake. The center is expected to attract up to 3 million tourists annually.
Source: spot.uz
Tajikistan
Tajikistan leads Central Asia in renewable energy potential
According to the annual report by the International Renewable Energy Agency, Tajikistan’s renewable energy capacity increased by 15.8% — or 781 megawatts — over the past 10 years.
Source: khovar.tj
Tajikistan and Saudi Arabia discuss bilateral trade cooperation
During a meeting at the Tajik Embassy in Saudi Arabia, the two countries discussed strengthening cooperation in imports and exports, solving logistics challenges, and expanding trade turnover.
Source: khovar.tj