Uzbekistan Enters Global Top 7 for Tourism Growth

Uzbekistan has ranked among the world’s seven fastest-growing tourism destinations.

Between January and September 2025, the number of international visitors to Uzbekistan rose by 73 per cent compared to the pre-pandemic level of 2019, highlighting the country’s rapidly strengthening position in global tourism, The Caspian Post reports via Uzbek media.

The strong performance was also recognized within the European region, where Uzbekistan ranked second for growth in inbound tourism compared to 2019.

In the first nine months of 2025 alone, foreign tourist arrivals increased by 13 per cent year-on-year, placing Uzbekistan among the top four fastest-growing destinations in the region. By contrast, global international travel grew by an average of just 5 per cent over the same period, underscoring Uzbekistan’s above-average momentum and the effectiveness of its tourism policies.

The country also set new national records in 2025. More than 10.7 million foreign tourists visited Uzbekistan in the first 11 months of the year, with monthly arrivals consistently exceeding one million for the first time in history since April. Revenue from tourism services exports surpassed $4.4 billion, reflecting not only recovery but sustained sector growth.

The surge in tourism has been driven by expanded visa-free and simplified visa regimes, improved transport connectivity, and active international promotion. Rapid growth in hotels, tour operators, and skilled tourism professionals has further strengthened infrastructure and competitiveness.

Alongside historic destinations such as Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, eco-tourism, gastronomy, and event tourism are gaining popularity. Rising visitor numbers from distant markets signal Uzbekistan’s growing presence beyond the regional tourism landscape and its deeper integration into the global travel industry.