Uzbekistan Joins Saudi Arabia, UAE, Brazil, Egypt, South Africa, Qatar, and More Nations as Fastest Growing Country with High Tourism Rate in 2025

Published on December 20, 2025

Uzbekistan has joinedSaudi Arabia, UAE, Brazil, Egypt, South Africa, Qatar, and other countries as one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in 2025, driven by a remarkable 73% increase in international arrivals compared to 2019. This rapid growth is fueled by strategic investments, the introduction of visa-free travel for many nations, and aggressive global promotion campaigns that have positioned Uzbekistan as a must-visit destination. With more than 10.7 million tourists visiting the country in 2025 and a surge in both regional and international travelers, Uzbekistan’s tourism sector has exceeded expectations and strengthened its place on the global tourism map.

Uzbekistan has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing tourism destinations in 2025, joining the ranks of renowned countries like Brazil, Morocco, Qatar, South Africa, Vietnam, and Egypt. According to the latest data from the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), Uzbekistan’s tourism sector has seen a remarkable 73% increase in international arrivals compared to 2019, highlighting the nation’s rapid recovery and exceptional growth post-pandemic. With a steady stream of investments, the easing of visa regulations, and a concerted global promotional effort, Uzbekistan is now on the map as a prime destination for travelers.

Tourism Boom in Uzbekistan: Surpassing Targets

The country has not only exceeded its national tourism targets but has also positioned itself firmly within the global tourism landscape. The Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan announced that by November 2025, the country had already surpassed the President’s ambitious target of attracting 10 million tourists, welcoming a total of 10.7 million international visitors by the end of the year. This surge has generated approximately €3.74 billion in tourism service exports, marking a major milestone in the country’s tourism ambitions.

Uzbekistan’s tourism boom is attributed to a combination of factors: long-term state planning, international investments, and the expansion of its tourism infrastructure. With tourism continuing to be a top priority for the government, there has been a significant boost in both inbound international tourism and local travel, contributing to the nation’s economic growth.

Regional Growth and International Recognition

A large share of the growth has come from Uzbekistan’s neighboring Central Asian countries. In 2025, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan were the leading source markets, with Kyrgyzstan contributing the most, accounting for 2.8 million visitors. In comparison, Kazakhstan sent 2.3 million, while Tajikistan contributed 2.2 million. However, there has been substantial growth from non-regional markets as well, particularly China and Turkey, with China leading the pack among non-regional nations, recording 217,700 visitors in 2025. Notably, India and South Korea followed with 66,100 and 41,600 visitors respectively.

Despite relatively lower numbers from long-haul markets, such as the United States, Uzbekistan is witnessing significant growth in these areas as well. In 2025, the number of US visitors increased by 22.4%, with 28,600 American tourists exploring the country’s cultural and natural beauty. Leisure travel has been the primary motivator for US travelers, with 23,600 visiting for vacation purposes.

This surge in international tourism is not only a testament to Uzbekistan’s allure but also underscores the importance of the country’s strategic marketing efforts, as it seeks to diversify its tourist base beyond the Central Asian region.

The Fast-Growing International Tourism Landscape

Uzbekistan’s remarkable growth comes at a time when other countries are also witnessing robust increases in tourist arrivals. Below is a snapshot of some of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in 2025, as reported by UN Tourism:

• Brazil: +45%
  Brazil, the largest country in South America, continues to experience a surge in tourism, driven by major global events and the country’s vast natural beauty, including the Amazon Rainforest and iconic beaches like Copacabana. With a strong performance in 2025, Brazil remains a top destination for international travelers.
• Vietnam: +21%
  Vietnam has capitalized on visa reforms and its rich cultural heritage to boost tourism. With cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and coastal areas like Da Nang and Phu Quoc drawing international crowds, Vietnam is emerging as a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia.
• Saudi Arabia: Tourism sector sees a remarkable 102% growth, aiming for 30 million visitors as part of Vision 2030, supported by large-scale giga-projects.
• UAE: The tourism sector flourishes in 2025, with international visitor spending reaching AED 228.5 billion, up 37% from 2019.
• Egypt: +21%
  Egypt’s tourism sector is witnessing significant growth, largely due to the country’s rich historical legacy. With world-famous attractions like the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Valley of the Kings, Egypt’s stable political climate has also contributed to its tourism revival.
• Ethiopia: +18%
  Ethiopia, with its ancient historical sites, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, continues to attract tourists seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences. The nation’s growing accessibility and improved infrastructure are fueling its tourism growth.
• Japan: +18%
  Japan remains one of the most sought-after destinations for tourists, especially with its famed cherry blossoms, historic temples, and modern cities like Tokyo. The country’s popularity is further bolstered by favorable exchange rates and cultural festivals, making it a key player in Asia-Pacific tourism.
• South Africa: +17%
  South Africa is experiencing an uptick in tourism, particularly from adventure travelers and those drawn to its wildlife. The country’s well-established safari tourism, world-class wineries, and vibrant urban experiences in Cape Town and Johannesburg are attracting a diverse range of visitors.
• Sri Lanka: +16%
  Sri Lanka’s pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and ancient temples continue to draw tourists from around the globe. After years of political instability, the island nation is bouncing back strongly with a focus on sustainable tourism practices.
• Mongolia: +16%
  Mongolia’s unique cultural heritage, coupled with its vast natural landscapes, attracts adventurous travelers eager to explore its nomadic traditions and the Gobi Desert. With improved connectivity and infrastructure, Mongolia is positioning itself as a growing destination for off-the-beaten-path tourism.
• Morocco: +14%
  Morocco’s combination of rich history, vibrant markets, and diverse landscapes—from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert—has fueled its tourism growth. The country’s affordability, coupled with its luxurious offerings, continues to attract a broad range of international visitors.
• Qatar: +138%
  Qatar has seen explosive growth, particularly in the luxury tourism and sports sectors. The country’s cultural events, coupled with high-end hotels, shopping malls, and fine dining options, have established it as a prime destination for affluent travelers. Qatar’s rise is also driven by the growing interest in the upcoming FIFA World Cup, making it an international hotspot.

Tourism Investments and Major Developments in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan’s tourism sector has seen €1.4 billion in investments in 2025 alone, contributing to the development of 421 projects across the country. The investment influx has helped to improve the overall tourism infrastructure, including the opening of international hotel chains such as JW Marriott, Swissôtel, DoubleTree by Hilton, and Azimut. Additionally, Uzbekistan’s tourism offerings have been enhanced by the development of mountain resorts and lakeside tourism zones, which provide a variety of leisure activities for visitors.

Moreover, the launch of the National Unified Tourism Platform (sayohat.uz) has significantly streamlined tourism services in the country, enabling tourists to book hotels, buy tickets, and access digital identification through a single platform. This initiative represents Uzbekistan’s commitment to modernizing its tourism sector and offering visitors a seamless experience from arrival to departure.

Promoting Local and Domestic Tourism

Uzbekistan’s tourism growth is not limited to international arrivals. The government has made significant strides in promoting domestic tourism, with 23.7 million domestic trips taken by residents in 2025 as part of the “Travel Across Uzbekistan” initiative. The initiative has encouraged locals to explore their own country’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

To further promote tourism within the country, the government has designated the second weekend of every month as “Family and Community Travel Days”, giving families dedicated opportunities to connect and enjoy domestic travel experiences together. This move has significantly boosted family tourism, ensuring that citizens also benefit from the growing tourism sector.

Infrastructure and Employment Growth

The rapid expansion of Uzbekistan’s tourism sector has been accompanied by a significant increase in job creation. Nearly 16,100 new jobs have been created in tourism and related sectors, providing a vital economic boost to the country. In addition, over 954 new accommodation facilities—including hotels, family guesthouses, and hostels—have been opened to accommodate the growing number of visitors, bringing the total number of accommodation facilities in the country to 6,861.

Furthermore, the growth of licensed tourism companies has surged to 4,348, with over 4,345 certified tour guides now operating in the country. This rise in employment and infrastructure development is a clear sign of Uzbekistan’s commitment to making its tourism sector a key driver of national economic growth.

Global Recognition and Future Outlook

Uzbekistan’s tourism achievements have not gone unnoticed on the international stage. The country’s destinations have been increasingly recognized by global travel authorities, with cities like Bukhara gaining global attention for their rich cultural heritage and vibrant art scenes. Uzbekistan has been actively participating in tourism exhibitions across the world, further promoting the country’s tourism offerings and strengthening its position as an up-and-coming travel destination.

With the continuous growth in both international and domestic tourism, the future of Uzbekistan’s tourism looks incredibly promising. The country’s strategic investments in infrastructure, cultural promotion, and global marketing are ensuring that Uzbekistan remains a top choice for travelers seeking unique experiences.

Uzbekistan has emerged as one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in 2025, joining the ranks of countries like Saudi Arabia and UAE, thanks to a 73% surge in international arrivals and strategic investments that have propelled its recovery and global appeal.

Uzbekistan’s tourism sector has not only bounced back post-pandemic but has exceeded expectations, positioning itself among the fastest-growing tourism destinations globally. As the country continues to attract millions of international visitors and promote local tourism, its remarkable rise serves as a model for other nations aiming to boost their tourism economies. With the support of ongoing investments, strategic marketing, and a commitment to sustainable growth, Uzbekistan is well on its way to becoming one of the top global tourism hubs in the years to come.