Samarkand Becomes a Key Stop for Pilgrims: How Uzbekistan’s ‘Umrah Plus’ Program Enhances Spiritual Tourism for Malaysian and Indonesian Travelers

Published on December 17, 2025

In a bid to enhance pilgrimage tourism, Uzbekistan has set its sights on attracting tourists from Malaysia and Indonesia. The Samarkand region, a historically significant hub in Uzbekistan, is now offering a unique travel experience to Muslim pilgrims, especially those from Malaysia and Indonesia, through a program called “Umrah Plus”. This initiative is designed to provide a spiritual journey that combines visits to sacred Islamic sites in Samarkand before continuing on to Saudi Arabia for Umrah. The program, aimed at boosting Uzbekistan’s tourism, is expected to meet the rising demand for cultural and religious tourism in the region.

The Vision for Pilgrimage Tourism Growth

Uzbekistan’s Samarkand region has long been a focal point for pilgrimage tourism. The region is home to several sacred Islamic landmarks, most notably the Mausoleum of Imam Bukhari, a revered site for Muslim pilgrims. To capitalize on the growing interest in religious travel, Uzbekistan has launched the “Umrah Plus” program. This initiative targets pilgrims from Malaysia and Indonesia, two countries with large Muslim populations, many of whom follow the Naqshbandi Sufi order. These countries have expressed significant interest in visiting Uzbekistan’s religious landmarks before heading to Saudi Arabia for Umrah.

The program aims to attract pilgrims from these nations by offering a seamless travel experience. Pilgrims will be able to fly directly to Samarkand, where they will spend a few days exploring the sacred sites. After their stay in Uzbekistan, they can then continue their journey to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, creating a well-rounded pilgrimage experience. This initiative also has the potential to bolster Uzbekistan’s tourism economy by attracting a large number of international visitors.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations: Collaborative Efforts from Uzbekistan, Malaysia, and Indonesia

During a recent videoconference meeting, key stakeholders from Uzbekistan, Malaysia, and Indonesia discussed strategies to improve this pilgrimage tourism program. Representatives from Uzbekistan’s government, including the governor of Samarkand, along with ambassadors to Malaysia and Indonesia, participated in the discussions. Travel consultants, along with representatives from airlines and airports, also took part in the meeting.

The focus of the discussions was to find ways to increase the number of flights connecting Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta to Samarkand. They explored the possibility of offering direct flights from these cities to Samarkand, with packages that would allow pilgrims to stay in Uzbekistan for two days before continuing their journey. This collaboration aims to streamline the travel process for pilgrims, ensuring a smooth transition between Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia.

Creating a Roadmap for Tourism Growth

Following the meeting, Uzbekistan’s government officials instructed relevant authorities to develop a clear roadmap for pilgrimage tourism. This plan includes improving flight routes, enhancing the overall tourist experience in Samarkand, and increasing awareness about Uzbekistan’s religious heritage. Tourism companies in Uzbekistan will work closely with local travel agencies in Malaysia and Indonesia to create customized tour packages that align with the “Umrah Plus” program.

Additionally, officials are committed to working closely with Uzbekistan’s embassies in Malaysia and Indonesia to ensure continuous communication and collaboration. This partnership is seen as a key factor in attracting more tourists and pilgrims from these two countries. With the support of local authorities, the program is expected to increase tourist arrivals from Malaysia and Indonesia, benefiting the tourism and hospitality sectors in Uzbekistan.

A Growing Trend in Religious Tourism

The launch of the “Umrah Plus” program comes at a time when pilgrimage tourism is gaining significant momentum worldwide. Many Muslim travelers seek to visit Islamic heritage sites while also fulfilling religious obligations, such as performing Umrah. The “Umrah Plus” program provides a unique opportunity for these travelers to explore religious sites in Uzbekistan, adding a cultural dimension to their spiritual journey. The program also benefits from the growing trend of multi-destination trips, where tourists combine their religious visits with leisure and exploration of cultural landmarks.

Travel Tips for Pilgrims Visiting Uzbekistan

For pilgrims traveling to Uzbekistan as part of the “Umrah Plus” program, there are a few tips to ensure a smooth journey:

• Visa Requirements: Ensure that you have the appropriate travel documents and visas for both Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia.
• Flight Connections: Check the availability of direct flights from Kuala Lumpur or Jakarta to Samarkand, and book in advance to secure the best rates.
• Stay and Accommodation: It’s advisable to book your accommodation early, as Samarkand is expected to see an increase in tourism due to this new initiative.
• Cultural Etiquette: Respect the local customs and traditions when visiting sacred sites. Understanding the cultural and religious significance of the sites will enhance your experience.
• Travel Insurance: Make sure to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers both health and travel disruptions.

Why Uzbekistan?

Uzbekistan, particularly the city of Samarkand, offers a rich cultural heritage and a wealth of historical landmarks. Apart from religious sites, travelers can also enjoy the architectural splendor of Samarkand’s Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda, and the Bibi-Khanym Mosque. For those interested in history and culture, Uzbekistan provides a unique experience that combines the spiritual and the historical.

Final Thoughts: The Future of Pilgrimage Tourism in Uzbekistan

With the launch of the “Umrah Plus” program, Uzbekistan is positioning itself as a key destination for religious tourism. The country’s strategic location, coupled with its rich Islamic heritage, makes it an ideal stop for pilgrims traveling from Malaysia and Indonesia. As the program gains traction, Uzbekistan’s tourism industry is expected to benefit greatly, with more visitors flocking to Samarkand and other parts of the country to experience its sacred and cultural landmarks.