Uzbekistan Seeks To Strengthen Tourism Sector Through Key Partnerships And Investments Highlighted At Abu Dhabi Conference, Focusing on the Regional and Cultural Tourism Growth

Published on November 25, 2025

The tourism industry in Uzbekistan is making brave steps toward expansion through international cooperation, especially for undeveloped regions. That came into focus during one recent conference in Abu Dhabi, where the diplomatic missions, tourism experts, and business representatives came together to discuss the ways of developing tourism across the country. The event underlined the growing efforts by Uzbekistan to promote tourism outside Tashkent, with special focus on Namangan and other emerging destinations.

The conference provided a much-needed platform for Uzbekistan to highlight its tourist potential, as well as enumerate its plans for the further development of some key areas along the Great Silk Road into global tourism hubs. The agreements reached with Egypt, India, Bahrain, and the Maldives are expected to provide a strong foundation for future tourism growth, helping diversify the country’s appeal beyond its historic cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva.

Cultural Tourism: Uzbekistan’s Hidden Gems Await Global Attention

Uzbekistan is home to some of the world’s most important cultural heritage sites, especially those along the ancient Silk Road. Ambassador Abdullaziz Akkulov of Uzbekistan to the UAE highlighted that cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are not only historically significant but are in many ways “open-air museums,” representing some of the richest cultural legacies in the world. These destinations offer unique opportunities for cultural tourism, where visitors can immerse themselves in the history, architecture, and traditions that shaped the development of world civilization.

As more international tourists are attracted to Uzbekistan’s heritage tourism, these less-well-known areas will be pivotal in sustaining long-term tourism growth, preventing over-tourism in more popular cities while offering travelers a broader range of experiences, including eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and spiritual journeys.

Growing Regional Tourism: Namangan as a New Hub for Visitors

The conference also placed a spotlight on Namangan, a city in eastern Uzbekistan, which is becoming a new tourism frontier for the country. Known for its natural beauty, lush landscapes, and proximity to mountainous regions, Namangan is now being positioned as a destination for eco-tourism and adventure travelers. The government’s strategy to promote hotel development, tourist services, and local culture in these regions aims to create a more balanced tourism ecosystem, spreading economic opportunities across the country.

By focusing on Namangan and other regional cities, Uzbekistan seeks to develop new tourism offerings and create job opportunities for local communities, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared more equitably. Minister Herath noted the importance of involving local stakeholders, ensuring that tourism infrastructure is aligned with the needs of the community while preserving the natural environment and cultural heritage.

Strengthening Partnerships to Foster Long-Term Tourism Growth

Strategic partnerships with countries such as Egypt, India, Bahrain, and the Maldives are expected to play a key role in Uzbekistan’s tourism expansion. These agreements cover areas such as joint marketing campaigns, cultural exchanges, and mutual investment in tourism infrastructure. For instance, Egypt’s experience in managing heritage tourism could be invaluable in preserving the historical sites in Uzbekistan, while India and Bahrain could offer insights into growing wellness tourism and luxury travel, sectors that are expected to see increased demand in the coming years.

The role of international tourism organizations, like the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), and global travel networks will be essential in supporting Uzbekistan’s entry into new markets. By collaborating with global tourism leaders, Uzbekistan can benefit from expertise, promotion, and international networks that will attract a diverse range of visitors to the country, from history enthusiasts and cultural travelers to adventure seekers and eco-tourists.

Future Tourism Impact: Regional Development and Economic Diversification

The long-term tourism impact of these efforts will be significant. The focus on regional tourism development will not only enhance Uzbekistan’s cultural tourism but also provide opportunities for economic diversification. By spreading tourism infrastructure across the country, Uzbekistan will avoid overcrowding in major cities and develop a more sustainable tourism model that benefits both urban and rural communities.

As global tourism trends shift toward more authentic, sustainable, and nature-based experiences, Uzbekistan’s regional destinations like Namangan will be in high demand, providing visitors with off-the-beaten-path travel options. The influx of international tourists into these areas will lead to increased local employment, the development of new tourism facilities, and more business opportunities for local entrepreneurs, creating a virtuous cycle of tourism-driven economic growth.

A Sustainable Tourism Future: Combining Cultural Heritage with Modern Infrastructure

As Uzbekistan continues to develop its tourism sector, a balanced approach to growth is essential. The focus on sustainable tourism practices, environmental conservation, and the protection of cultural heritage will help ensure that the country’s tourism growth is not just profitable but also responsible. By integrating modern tourism infrastructure with the preservation of its historic sites and natural landscapes, Uzbekistan is setting itself up as a long-term destination that can offer both economic benefits and cultural enrichment to visitors and local communities alike.

The partnerships forged at the Abu Dhabi conference are just the beginning. Uzbekistan’s tourism sector will continue to grow as it strengthens ties with international partners, embraces new tourism trends, and further develops its regional tourism destinations, ensuring that the country remains a top choice for global travelers looking for a unique, culturally rich travel experience.

A Bright Future for Uzbekistan’s Tourism Industry

With key tourism initiatives and strategic international partnerships in place, Uzbekistan is well on the course of becoming one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in Central Asia. The tourism strategy, which capitalizes on its rich cultural heritage, develops regions, and provides a more sustainable and inclusive growth model for the tourism industry, is also strengthening Uzbekistan’s appeal globally. As more international visitors discover the country’s Silk Road cities and natural landscapes, Uzbekistan will continue to benefit from diversified tourism revenues, local job creation, and its gradually increased position in the global tourism market.