National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan

Today, Uzbekistan is actively and prominently participating in international tourism fairs and exhibitions while also conducting roadshows and presentations in nearly 20 countries. The International Academy of Tourism has been established in Samarkand, a UN Tourism office has been opened and tourism enterprises have received subsidies totaling 109 billion soums over the past year. As a result of these reforms, not only has the number of tourists increased but their average length of stay in the country has also grown. Moreover, while in the past Uzbekistan was mainly visited by older travelers, the age profile of tourists is now noticeably becoming younger.

It is particularly noteworthy that the number of visitors from distant markets — Europe, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas — has grown significantly. This demonstrates that Uzbekistan is becoming increasingly recognised and attractive on the global tourism map.

The growth in tourist arrivals naturally contributes to higher revenues in the sector which in turn plays an important role in the overall development of the national economy. Whereas tourism activity was previously concentrated in certain seasons, today — thanks to ongoing reforms and improved conditions — the concept of a “tourist season” is gradually disappearing with visitor flows remaining stable throughout the year.

Efforts to simplify the visa regime and enhance digital services have helped Uzbekistan gain recognition as one of the most hospitable countries in the world. The introduction of an e-visa system and visa-free travel for citizens of more than 90 countries, simplified entry and exit procedures and the development of modern hotel and transport infrastructure have all created a solid foundation for the steady growth of tourism. This process in turn is generating new jobs, increasing employment and boosting incomes for local communities. These results align fully with the President’s overarching goal — to create new employment opportunities, particularly for young people and women and to improve the well-being of the population.

The inclusion of the Tourism Committee within the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change provides broad opportunities for advancing the principles of sustainable and environmentally responsible tourism. This approach strengthens the focus on preserving the country’s natural and cultural heritage as no sector — including tourism — can develop sustainably without a healthy environment. 

Global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental pollution require these factors to be taken into account when developing any field and Uzbekistan’s example shows that the chosen course is the right one.

The Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change will continue to faithfully implement the tasks set by the Head of State to improve the quality of tourism services, promote domestic and inbound tourism and further strengthen Uzbekistan’s position as one of the leading tourism centres in Central Asia.