Kazakhstan’s Abai Region Launches Major Cultural and Eco-Tourism Project

The local administration of Kazakhstan’s Abai Region has announced the commencement of construction on the Ethnoaule Zhidebai cultural and eco-tourism complex in the Abai district.

Covering 60 hectares, the project is backed by a private philanthropist and carries a budget of 1.2 billion tenge (about $2.3 million), The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

The initiative aims to develop tourism, highlight Kazakhstan’s spiritual and cultural heritage, and position Zhidebai as an international travel destination. Upon completion, it is expected to create 50 permanent jobs, boosting local employment and economic growth.

The complex will feature year-round yurts, bungalow-style hotels, an ethno-themed spa, dining facilities, a hippodrome, petting zoo, conference hall, team-building areas, electric vehicle charging stations, and a kumis bottling line.

Simultaneously, the region is preparing for the 180th anniversary celebrations of Abai Kunanbayev, the renowned Kazakh poet and philosopher. The festivities will run from August 10 for ten days.

Key developments at the Karaulyltobe venue include a large open-air stage with 400 seats, a horse racing track, a yurt village, and a 2,500-square-meter trade area for local entrepreneurs. Infrastructure upgrades such as lighting, water, sewage, sanitation, access roads, and pedestrian crossings are underway.

Abai Park continues to see landscaping improvements, while the “Abai Eli” monument was unveiled to regional governor Berik Uali, supported by local businesses.

Restoration efforts at the Abai-Shakarim Memorial Complex include cleaning the mausoleum, repairing electrical systems, and refurbishing pillars and facades.

The anniversary will culminate with a nationwide festival and cultural competitions celebrating Abai’s lasting influence.