Uzbekistan expands transport links and travel rules after tourism surge

Uzbekistan is expanding its air and rail connections, introducing financial incentives for tourism businesses, and easing travel rules to boost its economy. Euronews reported on 20 October 2026 that the government measures aim to attract investment, boost tourism revenue, and create new economic opportunities across the nation. [1]

According to the National Statistics Committee, Uzbekistan welcomed a record 11.7 million international visitors in 2025 as the country continued to expand its tourism sector. Data from UN Tourism shows that international arrivals increased by 37 percent in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in the previous year, Euronews reported. [1]

Uzbekistan is a doubly landlocked country in Central Asia with a population of more than 39 million people, making it the most populous nation in the region. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev assumed office in 2016 and has since pursued economic liberalization and foreign investment reforms. [2][3]

The nation achieved real gross domestic product growth of 6.5 percent in 2024, driven by domestic demand and key economic sectors including natural gas, gold, cotton, and manufacturing. [3]