Over the past ten years, the countries of Central Asia — Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan — have undergone significant changes in the tourism industry. Rich in historical heritage and natural beauty, the region has become more attractive to travelers from around the world.
Visa liberalization
One of the key factors driving tourism growth has been the simplification of visa procedures. The introduction of a unified visa regime or the easing of visa requirements in certain countries has increased the region’s appeal to foreign tourists. According to a World Bank study, 47% of travelers noted that a unified visa regime in Central Asian countries would increase the likelihood of their visit along the Silk Road routes.
Development of tourism infrastructure
In recent years, there has been active construction and modernization of tourism facilities. A notable example is the opening of the "Amirsoy" ski resort in Uzbekistan in 2019 — the largest and most modern resort in Central Asia. The complex offers 28 slopes of varying difficulty, with a total length of 21 km, and is equipped with modern lifts.
Promotion of sustainable tourism
Countries in the region have started actively implementing principles of sustainable tourism. The MOST project, funded by the European Union, aims to develop environmentally friendly and culturally enriching tourism practices. As part of the project, training sessions are conducted, recommendations are developed, and technologies are introduced to support sustainable tourism.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic
The pandemic has had a significant impact on the region’s tourism sector. In 2020, the global tourism industry contracted, leading to a 10.3% decline in the sector’s contribution to global GDP. Central Asian countries faced similar challenges, which required the development of recovery strategies and adaptation to new conditions.
Growth of domestic and regional tourism
During the pandemic, there has been a growing interest in domestic and regional tourism. Travelers are opting for closer, safer, and less crowded destinations. Villas, country houses, mountain retreats, and other self-service accommodations have become particularly popular, meeting social distancing requirements.
Prospects and challenges
Despite the progress achieved, the tourism industry in Central Asia still faces certain challenges. Further efforts are needed to improve infrastructure, enhance service quality, and promote the region on the international stage. Preserving cultural heritage and natural resources also remains a priority for ensuring sustainable tourism development.
Overall, over the past decade, Central Asia has made significant strides in tourism development, transforming into an attractive destination for travelers seeking unique cultural and natural experiences.