Uzbekistan’s Tourism Achievements in 2024 and Vision for 2025:…

In 2024, Uzbekistan’s tourism saw significant growth, welcoming 10.2 million international visitors and generating $3.5 billion in revenue. Key markets included China, Italy, and India. The country expanded its hospitality infrastructure and was recognized globally for its tourism achievements. Looking towards 2025, Uzbekistan aims for 11 million arrivals and $3.8 billion in revenues, focusing on sustainable growth.

In 2024, Uzbekistan’s tourism sector witnessed remarkable growth, receiving 10.2 million international visitors and generating $3.5 billion in revenue, a 1.5-fold increase from 2023. Key contributors to this surge included markets from China, Italy, India, and Germany. Domestic tourism also thrived, with 22.7 million visits recorded through the ‘Travel Around Uzbekistan!’ initiative. Notably, the country’s social travel assistance program helped 18,100 individuals with disabilities, demonstrating efforts towards inclusivity. Furthermore, 51,000 new jobs emerged in tourism and hospitality sectors, enhancing the local economy.

To meet the rising demand, Uzbekistan expanded its tourism infrastructure significantly; 124 new hotels and 239 hostels were added, raising total accommodations to over 6,100 properties with 161,000 beds. Renowned international hotel brands established presences in major cities, including Tashkent and Samarkand. Moreover, 866 new travel agencies were launched, increasing the total to 3,686, alongside training for 700 new certified tour guides, expanding the national count to 3,200 licensed professionals.

In 2024, Uzbekistan enhanced its global tourism presence by forming partnerships with significant media outlets such as BBC and CNN. These collaborations, coupled with participation in 22 international travel fairs across 19 nations and targeted marketing in key markets like China and the UK, improved visibility. A highlight included the launch of the “Year of Uzbekistan Tourism in China,” which involved promotional roadshows in major Chinese cities.

Uzbekistan emerged as a leader in regional tourism integration through projects like the ‘Central Asian Tourist Ring,’ encouraging longer visitor stays in the area. The Tashkent International Tourism Fair (TITF) saw over 20,000 visitors and exhibitors, highlighting the country’s growing prominence in tourism.

International recognition spotlighted Uzbekistan’s achievements in tourism. The UN World Tourism Organization named it the “Second Best Destination” for revenue growth, while the World Economic Forum recognized it as exceptionally active in tourism development. Additionally, the country received the ‘Best Developing Destination’ award from the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards.

Looking ahead, Uzbekistan envisions further success in 2025 with the Uzbekistan Tourism Strategy 2040 set to promote sustainable growth. The goals include increasing international arrivals to 11 million and achieving $3.8 billion in tourism revenue. Plans encompass expanding hospitality, increasing travel agencies, and hosting over 20 cultural events in China and CIS countries, firmly establishing Uzbekistan as a premier global travel destination.

Uzbekistan’s tourism sector marked a highly successful year in 2024, experiencing a substantial increase in international visitors and notable revenue growth. The country established itself on the global tourism stage through strategic partnerships and investments in infrastructure. With ambitious goals set for 2025 under the Uzbekistan Tourism Strategy 2040, the focus remains on sustainable developments and enhancing Uzbekistan’s status as a leading global travel destination.

Original Source: www.travelandtourworld.com