Almaty’s World Tourism Alliance Membership Marks New Era for Kazakhstan’s Tourism, Joining Astana and Global Destinations in 2025 – Everything You Need to Know

Published on November 21, 2025

Kazakhstan’s vibrant city, Almaty, has officially become a member of the prestigious World Tourism Alliance (WTA), boosting its status as a key player in global tourism. This notable development was announced during the Xianghu Dialogue 2025 in Hangzhou, China, a prominent event dedicated to shaping the future of international tourism. This membership is a landmark achievement for Almaty, paving the way for greater international recognition, partnerships, and expertise exchange.

With this move, Almaty joins a global network of cities and institutions dedicated to enhancing the tourism sector, providing a solid foundation for future collaboration with other major tourism hubs worldwide. This addition underscores Kazakhstan’s growing influence on the international travel scene, following the inclusion of its capital Astana in the WTA just a few months prior. Both cities now hold prominent positions in the worldwide tourism landscape, creating new opportunities for Kazakhstan’s tourism industry.

Almaty’s Role in the World Tourism Alliance: Why It Matters

The World Tourism Alliance is an influential organisation that connects government bodies, businesses, and experts to foster global tourism development. It promotes collaborative research, strategic consulting, and professional training while enhancing cooperation between the public and private sectors. Almaty’s admission to this exclusive network signals the city’s strong commitment to developing sustainable tourism practices and creating a welcoming environment for international visitors.

As a member of the WTA, Almaty gains access to a wealth of resources that will help elevate its tourism profile. These include international visibility, access to cutting-edge tourism trends, and opportunities for global collaborations. Being part of such a distinguished group will help attract investors, tourists, and business partnerships, further cementing Almaty’s position as a prime travel destination in Central Asia.

The Global Impact of Kazakhstan’s Growing Tourism Influence

Kazakhstan’s growing prominence in the global tourism sector is not limited to Almaty. In late 2024, Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana, also joined the World Tourism Alliance, further solidifying the country’s expanding role in the international tourism industry. As Almaty joins Astana in the WTA fold, Kazakhstan positions itself as a competitive player in the international tourism market, attracting both leisure and business travelers.

This growth in Kazakhstan’s tourism sector is a direct response to the government’s initiatives to develop the country into a key global destination. With the backing of major international tourism organizations, Kazakhstan is expected to experience a rise in both tourism arrivals and investment, benefiting not only the tourism industry but also local economies.

Travel Tips for Exploring Almaty and Kazakhstan

As Kazakhstan’s tourism profile rises, more travelers will be drawn to the region’s natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant cities. Here are some essential tips for those planning to visit Almaty and Astana:

1. Explore the Great Outdoors – Almaty is surrounded by majestic mountains, making it a hub for outdoor adventures. Skiing, hiking, and trekking are popular activities. The nearby Shymbulak Ski Resort offers world-class facilities for winter sports, while the Big Almaty Lake provides a serene hiking destination.
2. Embrace Kazakh Culture – Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Kazakhstan. Visit the Central State Museum in Almaty to learn about the country’s history, and take in traditional Kazakh music and dance at local performances.
3. Take Advantage of Local Cuisine – Kazakhstan is known for its unique cuisine, heavily influenced by nomadic traditions. Enjoy dishes such as besbarmak, shashlik, and traditional Kazakh tea.
4. Plan for the Weather – Kazakhstan experiences extreme weather conditions, with very cold winters and hot summers. Be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
5. Check Visa Requirements – While some nationalities can enter Kazakhstan visa-free, others may require a visa. It’s important to check the visa requirements before booking your travel to avoid any hassles at immigration.

Why Almaty’s Membership in the WTA Is a Game-Changer

Almaty’s acceptance into the World Tourism Alliance is a game-changer for Kazakhstan’s tourism landscape. The city will now have the tools and resources to position itself among the most sought-after destinations in the world. The membership provides Almaty with an opportunity to showcase its unique attractions, from its natural wonders to its rich cultural heritage, while simultaneously learning from other global leaders in the tourism sector.

By being part of the WTA, Almaty gains valuable insights into best practices for sustainable tourism development and innovation. This partnership will help Almaty enhance its infrastructure, diversify its tourism offerings, and develop tailored marketing campaigns that will attract international visitors.

Looking Ahead: Kazakhstan’s Tourism Future

The future of Kazakhstan’s tourism looks bright, and Almaty’s membership in the World Tourism Alliance is just the beginning. As the city continues to grow as a global tourism destination, Kazakhstan is poised to become a major player in the international travel industry. With its blend of modern urban life, rich history, and stunning natural landscapes, the country is ready to welcome more international tourists than ever before.

As the tourism sector expands, Kazakhstan will continue to develop its infrastructure, attract foreign investment, and promote the country’s unique cultural identity to the world. This will not only boost the economy but also foster a greater understanding and appreciation of Kazakhstan on the global stage.