Uzbekistan tourism revenue exceeds $1 billion in three months
Uzbekistan’s tourism sector experienced record growth in the first quarter of 2026, attracting nearly 3 million foreign tourists and generating over $1.1 billion in service exports. During a high-level government meeting, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev attributed this success to the country’s stability and rich cultural heritage, while urging officials to further capitalize on global "tourist relocation" trends. To sustain this momentum, local leaders have been tasked with developing district-specific tourism plans and collaborating with startups to drive job creation and economic efficiency. The President also criticized administrative delays in certain regions, demanding a more proactive approach to supporting entrepreneurial projects and managing potential risks.
Results for the first quarter of 2026 indicate significant growth in Uzbekistan's tourism sector. According to a video-selector meeting chaired by the President, nearly 3 million foreign tourists visited the country during this period.
Most notably, it was recorded that the volume of tourism service exports reached $1.103 billion. This figure is being assessed as one of the highest results in recent years.
The meeting highlighted that "tourist relocation" factors are significantly influencing such growth. Currently, many tourists worldwide prefer safe and stable destinations. In this regard, it was emphasized that Uzbekistan must utilize its opportunities more effectively.
It was also stated that work on developing the country's rich historical heritage, cultural monuments, and new tourist sites should be further accelerated. Officials were tasked with working actively in conditions of increasing competition for every tourist.
Instructions were issued to develop specific and comprehensive proposals for increasing tourism potential at the district level. Furthermore, it was emphasized that all leaders must conduct preliminary risk assessments and prepare work plans based on at least several possible scenarios.
Strict requirements were placed on regional and district khokims (governors) to modernize their work methods. Specifically, they were tasked with developing proposals to increase economic efficiency, create new jobs, and raise public income by involving "think tanks," university scientists, and young startup entrepreneurs in the short term.
During the meeting, the performance of certain officials was also criticized. In particular, it was strongly noted that an entrepreneurship project in the city of Nurafshon has remained unimplemented for two years, with local leadership focusing on other issues instead of resolving the problem.
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