Uzbekistan Records Historic Tourism Boom, Earns Global Recognition

ISLAMABAD — Uzbekistan has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing travel destinations, attracting over 7.5 million foreign tourists between January and August 2025, according to the Chairman of the Uzbek Tourism Committee, Umid Shadiev.

The surge highlights the country’s rising profile on the global tourism map, with visitors flocking to world-renowned cities such as Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. Shadiev noted that tourism is now a major driver of Uzbekistan’s economy, supported by heavy investment in infrastructure, training, and cultural heritage projects.

Uzbekistan’s leadership in global tourism is reflected in its long-standing partnership with UN Tourism, dating back to 1993. The nation introduced landmark declarations, including the Samarkand Declaration (1994) and Khiva Declaration (1999), focusing on Silk Road preservation.

Recently, the UN General Assembly adopted Uzbekistan’s proposal to mark 2027 as the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism, supported by over 80 countries. Tashkent also introduced the Global Code of Safe Tourism and joined the International Code for the Protection of Tourists, cementing its role in shaping international travel standards.

Samarkand has become a regional hub for cultural tourism, hosting a UN Tourism Silk Road office and the International Tourism Academy, developed with Swiss hospitality school Les Roches.

In 2023, the city hosted the 25th UN Tourism General Assembly, welcoming delegates from 140 nations. The event declared Samarkand the World Capital of Cultural Tourism, leading to multi-million-dollar investment deals and global education initiatives.

“These achievements prove Uzbekistan is not only expanding its tourism sector but also influencing the global tourism agenda,” Shadiev said. Experts believe that with its blend of heritage, innovation, and international partnerships, Uzbekistan is on track to become a central hub for sustainable global tourism.

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