Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan

As noted in the UN Tourism report, international travel worldwide grew by an average of 2% in January–March 2026, reaching 307 million tourists. This represents an increase of 6 million travelers compared to the same period in 2025.

Against the backdrop of global trends, Uzbekistan has demonstrated even more impressive growth in tourism activity. In 2025, the country set a new national record by welcoming nearly 11.7 million foreign tourists over the course of the year. During the first five months of 2026 alone, Uzbekistan received more than 5.3 million visitors.

The growth in tourist arrivals has been driven by the expansion of the visa-free regime, improved transport accessibility, and the implementation of an active international marketing strategy. The number of hotels, tourism companies, and industry professionals has increased significantly, contributing to the strengthening of the country’s tourism infrastructure and enhancing its competitiveness in the global tourism market.

One of the key factors attracting visitors remains Uzbekistan’s safe and relatively affordable travel environment. For many travelers, the country offers a more accessible alternative to Europe and other distant destinations while boasting a rich historical heritage.

In addition to the traditional historic centers of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, interest in ecotourism and gastronomic tourism is also growing. This reflects the ongoing expansion and diversification of the country’s tourism offerings.

The increasing number of tourists arriving from long-haul international markets demonstrates that Uzbekistan is gradually moving beyond its status as a regional destination and strengthening its position in the global tourism industry. These achievements, reflected in the UN Tourism Barometer, create favorable prospects for the further development of the country’s tourism sector in line with global trends.