A New Era for Silk Road Tourism: Uzbekistan Expands Its Travel Offerings with Multi-Country Itineraries and Eco-Friendly Destinations

Published on December 1, 2025

Uzbekistan, a country rich in history and cultural heritage, is rapidly emerging as a central hub for Silk Road tourism. Once the heart of ancient trade routes that connected the East to the West, Uzbekistan is now transforming its tourism sector, leveraging modern infrastructure, new flight routes, eco-tourism development, and cutting-edge digital tools. The 30th Tashkent International Tourism Fair (TITF-2025) has been a pivotal event showcasing the revival of the Silk Road as one of the fastest-growing travel corridors across Eurasia. With improved connectivity, nature tourism development, and the rise of AI-powered travel planning tools, Uzbekistan is positioning itself as a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to experience the essence of the Silk Road.

Introduction: The Silk Road Revival

The ancient Silk Road is no longer just a historical reference; it has evolved into a modern travel corridor, attracting tourists from all over the world. In recent years, Uzbekistan has witnessed an unprecedented surge in tourism, especially as global travelers seek to explore destinations along the Silk Road. In 2025, Uzbekistan’s foreign arrivals exceeded 10 million, a dramatic increase from just over 2 million in 2017. This growth can be attributed to the country’s expanding tourism infrastructure, including direct international flights, multi-country travel loops, and a focus on eco-tourism and local crafts that offer a unique, immersive experience.

As multi-country itineraries become increasingly popular, travelers are no longer just visiting a single city but are combining stops across multiple countries in one trip. Uzbekistan’s tourism officials have emphasized that travelers are now opting for longer stays, often spanning 7 to 9 nights, with multiple cities and countries featured on their itineraries. This shift toward multi-destination tourism has been made possible by enhanced regional connectivity, with improved flight routes making travel more accessible and affordable.

Uzbekistan’s rise as a tourism destination is also supported by its cultural treasures, like the Registan Square in Samarkand, the Kalta Minor Minaret, and the historical city of Bukhara, which showcase the country’s rich Islamic and Persian influences. These, combined with eco-tourism initiatives and local craft industries, form the backbone of Uzbekistan’s tourism offerings.

Key Drivers of Uzbekistan’s Tourism Growth

1. Connectivity and Flight Routes
   One of the primary drivers behind Uzbekistan’s tourism boom is the country’s improved air connectivity. Daily flights between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan have made travel between these two countries more efficient. Additionally, twice-weekly flights between Samarkand and Baku cater to a growing demand for cross-border tourism. According to Azerbaijan Tourism Bureau, there has been a 35% rise in the number of Uzbeks traveling to Azerbaijan, reflecting the increasing popularity of cross-border tourism. New direct flights between Uzbekistan and European cities like Barcelona, Vienna, and Prague are also facilitating multi-destination tourism. The focus on multi-city loops is enabling travelers to explore more than one country, making Uzbekistan an attractive addition to regional and international itineraries.
2. Nature and Eco-Tourism Development
   Uzbekistan is embracing eco-tourism as part of its broader tourism strategy. The country’s vast mountainous regions, such as Namangan and Pop, are being developed for adventure tourism, including cave exploration and alpine trekking. The government is working closely with alpinist groups to create well-marked routes for hiking and caving, which will soon become part of Uzbekistan’s official eco-tourism offerings. Nature tourism is being mapped using modern tools such as geographical data, elevation markers, and seasonal travel guides, making it easier for tourists to explore Uzbekistan’s remote landscapes safely. This development is complemented by the promotion of thermal springs and sanatorium stays, offering a comprehensive wellness tourism experience.
3. Craft Industries and Local Artisans
   Local crafts have become an integral part of Uzbekistan’s tourism identity. Artisans from across the country, including Tajik craftsman Dzhovidon Mukhabbatov, who works with rare stones like lapis lazuli and jasper, are gaining global attention for their unique, handmade goods. These artisans are contributing to the growing demand for souvenirs that reflect the locality and authenticity of the region. Uzbekistan’s craft fairs and international trade shows provide artisans a platform to showcase their products to a wider audience. These goods, such as handmade jewelry, traditional textiles, and ceramics, are becoming a significant part of the travel experience, as tourists increasingly seek out items with visible material origin rather than mass-produced goods.
4. The Rise of AI in Travel Planning
   The introduction of AI-driven travel planning tools is revolutionizing the tourism industry across Central Asia. TourAI, an innovative platform, is transforming the way travelers plan their trips. By offering instant tour searches, 24/7 replies, and detailed review analysis from popular tourist apps like Booking.com and Tripadvisor, AI is streamlining the planning process for travelers. AI-powered platforms also provide personalized recommendations and real-time itinerary updates, helping travelers find the best activities and experiences based on their interests and preferences. This shift toward digitalization is particularly valuable in regions like Uzbekistan, where a fragmented tourism industry has traditionally made trip planning challenging.
5. Educational and Cultural Tourism
   Uzbekistan’s Silk Road tourism is increasingly intertwined with educational tourism, with universities in Uzbekistan offering specialized programs in tourism management, hospitality, and cultural heritage. The Silk Road International Tourism and Cultural Heritage University is training the next generation of tourism leaders in Uzbekistan, ensuring that the country’s growing tourism sector will be managed by well-educated, skilled professionals. Educational tours, which combine cultural learning with sightseeing, are becoming popular, with long-distance route planners from countries like Japan and Europe incorporating these programs into their itineraries. This emphasis on cultural education is helping to deepen tourists’ understanding of Uzbekistan’s rich history while enhancing the overall experience.

New Tourist Attractions and Regional Highlights

Uzbekistan’s tourism development isn’t limited to its historical cities and eco-tourism initiatives. The country is also focusing on promoting new, off-the-beaten-path destinations. For instance, the Namangan region is being developed for adventure tourism, with new hiking and trekking routes mapped for tourists seeking unique experiences.

Other regions, like Chodak and Nanay, are becoming increasingly popular for their eco-tourism offerings, attracting domestic and foreign visitors during the summer months. These regions are also benefiting from Uzbekistan’s One Commune, One Product (OCOP) initiative, which promotes local agriculture and craftsmanship while boosting the rural economy.

Education and Professional Development in Tourism

Uzbekistan’s tourism industry is evolving rapidly, and education is key to sustaining this growth. The Silk Road International Tourism and Cultural Heritage University is at the forefront of developing the country’s tourism workforce. By training students in tourism management, hospitality, and business, the university is helping to build a pipeline of skilled professionals who will drive the future of tourism in Uzbekistan.

Students are encouraged to participate in internships and international exchange programs, gaining hands-on experience and building relationships with global tourism organizations. These efforts ensure that Uzbekistan’s tourism industry is managed by well-qualified professionals, capable of meeting international service standards.

Conclusion: Uzbekistan’s Bright Tourism Future

With its rich cultural heritage, modern infrastructure, and commitment to sustainable tourism, Uzbekistan is positioning itself as a central player in the Silk Road tourism revival. As the country continues to develop its tourism offerings—focusing on multi-country itineraries, eco-tourism, craft industries, and AI-driven travel solutions—it is set to attract millions of visitors in the coming years. With a clear vision for the future and a focus on both heritage preservation and modern innovation, Uzbekistan is becoming one of the most exciting destinations in Eurasia.