Government outlines major infrastructure push to boost tourism revenues

In his address to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev outlined measures to curb inflation, stabilize food prices, and accelerate the development of paid services.

The services sector grew by 15 percent this year to $82 billion, with authorities aiming to raise the figure to $100 billion in 2026. To stimulate demand, the government plans to allocate UZS 85 trillion in credit resources and UZS 9 trillion in subsidies, including UZS 7 trillion from the state budget to support educational services.

Over the next five years, policymakers intend to double the number of foreign visitors to Uzbekistan while significantly expanding tourism revenues. Central to this strategy is large-scale investment in tourism infrastructure across key destinations.

In Samarkand, modern pedestrian paths and bridges will connect major historical landmarks, including Registan Square, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, the Amir Temur Mausoleum, the Ulugh Beg Observatory, Shah-i-Zinda, and the Afrosiyob Museum. In Khiva, an immersive “smart” city-museum integrating cultural heritage with digital technologies will be developed within the Ichan Kala complex.

The first phase of the Gelon tourism complex is set to launch near Shahrisabz, while a new mountain recreation area, Arashan, will open in the Namangan Region. Authorities also plan to establish a tourism ring linking archaeological sites in Khorezm and Karakalpakstan.

In parallel, the government aims to launch 3,500 new service projects with a combined value of $4 billion.

A nationwide “Heritage Hotels of Uzbekistan” program will also be rolled out, encouraging leading international hotel chains to open boutique hotels in cultural heritage buildings. Participants will be offered tax and customs incentives.

To support these initiatives, authorities have instructed relevant agencies to expand the sale of land plots for tourism development. By the end of 2028, 5,000 hectares of land are expected to be auctioned for the construction of tourism facilities and complexes.