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57
DEVELOPMENTS IN THE FIELD OF TOURISM IN SOUTH UZBEKISTAN
Oybek Ruziyev
Candidate of Economics, Rector of denov
institute of entrepreneurship and pedagogy,
E-mail:
Raxim Xudoyberdiyev
PhD student at the Denov Institute of Entrepreneurship and Pedagogy,
E-
mail:
Annotation:
This article explores the recent developments in the tourism sector in South
Uzbekistan, highlighting key projects, infrastructural improvements, and cultural initiatives
aimed at attracting both domestic and international tourists. The region, known for its rich
historical heritage and natural beauty, has become a focal point for tourism development in
Uzbekistan. The article examines the growing interest in the region's ancient cities, such as
Samarkand and Bukhara, alongside emerging destinations. It also discusses government policies,
investments, and local community involvement in shaping the future of tourism. Additionally,
the article touches on the challenges faced in terms of sustainability, preservation, and managing
the influx of visitors. The overall aim is to present a comprehensive picture of how South
Uzbekistan is positioning itself as a major tourism hub in Central Asia.
Keywords:
South Uzbekistan, Tourism development, Historical heritage, Sustainable tourism,
Infrastructure, Cultural tourism, Uzbekistan tourism policies, Regional tourism growth
Introduction.
Uzbekistan is attracting the attention of the whole world with its numerous
historical and architectural monuments, diverse climate, and rapid development. For centuries,
Uzbekistan was located on the trade route of the Great Silk Road, a route for merchants and
travelers, geographers and missionaries, conquerors and conquerors. At present, Uzbekistan is
becoming one of the most attractive tourist destinations for enterprising people, interested in
culture, history, traditions and exotic countries. Although the tourism industry is relatively new
in Uzbekistan, it has outpaced many other sectors in development.
Our country has great potential for the development of international tourism. Twenty years ago,
no one knew Uzbekistan as a promising tourism region. After gaining independence, the state
developed new principles in the field of tourism. On July 27, 1992, by the decree of the President
of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the national company "Uzbektourism" was established. The main
task of "Uzbektourism" is to implement state policy in the field of tourism and create a national
model of tourism development. In addition, the national company coordinates the activities of all
tourist organizations in the republic, promotes the development of all areas of tourism, deals with
personnel issues, and attracts investment flows to form the material and technical base and
develop the industry's infrastructure.
Our country has been a member of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) since 1993.
Since 2004, a UNWTO office has been operating in Samarkand - in the "heart" of the Great Silk
Road - to coordinate tourism on the transcontinental highway. The government is undertaking
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significant work to modernize the tourism sector, improve the country's transport and hotel
infrastructure, and improve the regulatory framework for tourism. In order to promote tourism
products abroad, the “Mega-info-tour” - a marketing project of familiarization trips is being
implemented for foreign tourism companies and media representatives. Such trips play an
important role in expanding the tourist season, optimizing the duration of tourist flows to our
country, and demonstrating that each season in Uzbekistan has its own charm for tourists.
In addition, the international fair "Tourism on the Silk Road" in Tashkent, which is held under
the auspices of UNWTO, is of great importance in supporting the tourism potential of
Uzbekistan. The main goal of this fair is to unite Uzbek and foreign specialists in the field of
tourism and further expand professional cooperation between them. To date, this international
fair has become one of the largest exhibitions in Central Asia.
Uzbekistan, which amazes, fascinates, and delights tourists with its legendary past, the historical
and engineering heritage of the Silk Road, magnificent natural landscapes, local crafts passed
down from generation to generation, the hospitality of the people, and human values, attracts
people from all corners of the world.
Visa regime simplified.
Currently, visa-free entry has been established for citizens of 93 foreign
countries, electronic entry visas for 56 countries, five-day transit visa-free entry for 47 countries,
as well as a simplified procedure for issuing tourist visas for 76 countries. A visa-free entry
regime has been introduced for citizens of China, the United States, and Vietnam who are 55
years of age or older and who are visiting Uzbekistan for tourism purposes for a period of no
more than 30 days. In addition, new types of entry visas have been established, such as
"Vatandosh", "Student visa", "Academic visa", "Medical visa", and "Pilgrim visa". The 24th
session of the UNWTO in Madrid, Spain, announced that the 25th General Assembly of the UN
member states will be held in ancient Samarkand in 2023 for the first time. UNWTO recognized
Uzbekistan as the 4th among the 20 countries with the fastest growing tourism sector. It rose
from 32nd to 22nd place in the “World Muslim Tourist Index” ranking, entering the top 10
countries with “high levels of safety and tolerance” and “most attractive”.
Foreign tourism inflow to Surkhandarya region in 2024 is planned to be 700 900 638,000 people
in practice person visited by foreign tourists. As a result, the volume of tourism exports
amounted to $ 63 million. Tourism fairs were held 5 times in 2024. As a result, the Republic of
Tajikistan Agreements were signed with 10 tour operators. As a result, 2,500 tourists visited the
region. A number of entertainment programs and concerts were organized for visiting
international tourists. In particular, in the Boysun district, the international folklore festival
"Boysun Bahori" , the "Air Balloons" festival, the "Tandir Fest" festival, the "Uloq Köpkari"
festival festival, the "Uloq köpkari" festival and the "Termez RALLY" festival in the Termez
district,
the "Bahodirlar o'yini" and "Sumalak sayli" dedicated to the memory of Pahlovon Mahmud were
held, in the Sherabad district the "Aron" fair, in the Boysun district the "Alma" fair, and in the
Altinsoy district the "Uzum" fair were held. Currently, 3 tourism villages have been established
in our region.
Of these; the village of "Sangardak" in Sariosiyo district , the village of "Sina" in Denov district,
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and the village of "Omonkhona" in Boysun district .
At the same time, a "Youth Park" was established in the city of Termez and a "Buddha Town"
was established in the Termez district.
24 during 2024 (877 seats) accommodation vehicles have been organized, and as of today, a
total of 220 accommodation vehicles (4,395 seats) have been delivered.
From this:
52 units hotels
(2,388 beds)
, 24 hostels
(738 places)
, 1 motel
(4 rooms, 8 beds),
144 family
guest houses
(ranked 1,269),
3 one cottages
(30 places) was established.
Today, there are 51 in
our region. tour operators, 11 pieces travel agents, 15 tour guides is carrying out its activities.
These projects and related sub-projects have provided employment to 3,476 people (of which
300 were members of low-income households).
In 2024, 5 meetings were held with enterprising entrepreneurs in the tourism sector. At the same
time, 153 tourist attractions visited by tourists objects exist .
The Surkhandarya regional administration signed 23 project agreements worth a total of $ 510
million within the framework of the Global Investment Forum held in Samarkand on October
17-18 at the 25th session of the General Assembly of the World Tourism Organization
(UNWTO).
Conclusion.
South Uzbekistan is witnessing significant strides in the development of its tourism
sector. By leveraging its historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes, the region
is positioning itself as a key destination within Central Asia. Government initiatives, coupled
with infrastructural improvements and private sector investments, have paved the way for
increased tourist arrivals. However, the region must balance growth with sustainable practices to
preserve its cultural and environmental heritage. If the current momentum continues, South
Uzbekistan has the potential to become a leading tourist destination in the region, offering a rich
experience for visitors while benefiting local communities economically. The future of tourism
in South Uzbekistan looks promising, but careful planning and responsible management will be
essential to ensure long-term success.
References
1.
Uzbekistan State Committee for Tourism Development. (2023). Tourism Development
Strategy in Uzbekistan: The Roadmap for 2023-2030. Retrieved from www.tourism.uz
2.
World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). (2022). Tourism in Central Asia: Trends and
Opportunities. United Nations World Tourism Organization. Retrieved from www.unwto.org
3.
Shodiev, M. (2021). Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Tourism Development in
Uzbekistan. Central Asia Research Journal, 45(3), 112-125.
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6.995, 2024 7.75
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60
4.
Fayzullayev, A., & Khasanov, D. (2022). The Role of Infrastructure in Boosting Tourism
in Uzbekistan. Journal of Central Asian Development, 12(4), 98-110.
5.
Rakhmatov, N. (2020). Tourism and Economic Growth in South Uzbekistan:
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Hospitality in Central Asia (pp. 45-59). Tashkent: Uzbekistan National University.
6.
Tashkent Times. (2023). South Uzbekistan Sees Record Tourism Growth in 2023.
Retrieved from www.tashkenttimes.uz
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International Tourism Development Association (ITDA). (2022). Tourism Trends in the
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