From September 4 to 6, 2026, one of Malaysia’s largest tourism exhibitions, MATTA Fair, is being held in Kuala Lumpur. The country is represented at this prestigious international event by a national tourism stand organised by the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the “National PR Center”, with the support of the diplomatic mission of Uzbekistan.
In connection with the 35th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s state independence, Governor of the U.S. state of Montana Greg Gianforte officially proclaimed September 1, 2026, as “Uzbekistan Independence Day” throughout the state.
The international publication National Geographic has published an extensive feature on Uzbekistan, highlighting the country’s tourism potential, historic cities, architectural heritage, and the ongoing development of its modern tourism infrastructure. The article was written by renowned American author Gary Shteyngart, who travelled across Uzbekistan and shared his personal impressions of Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara.
From August 13 to 15, the city of Shahrisabz in Kashkadarya Region is hosting the international “Iroqi Kashtachilik” Festival, along with the “Ipak Kashta Jilosi” Festival and National Competition. The events bring together 23 international artisans from five countries — Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Türkiye, Turkmenistan, and Russia — as well as around 100 Uzbek artisans from all regions of Uzbekistan and the city of Tashkent.
From 7 to 9 August 2026, the city of Khiva hosted the International Melon Festival at the Ichan-Kala complex and the Arda Khiva tourist centre. The vibrant gastronomic and cultural event attracted tourists from across Uzbekistan and abroad, as well as representatives of national and international media.
Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates continue to steadily expand their cooperation in tourism. The latest milestone is the launch of direct Etihad Airways service between Abu Dhabi and Tashkent, opening new opportunities for growth in mutual tourist flows as well as broader business and investment ties between the two countries.
A grand opening ceremony of the traditional International Melon Festival was held in the ancient city of Khiva, Khorezm Region.
Another historic milestone has been achieved in the international recognition of Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage. At the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, held from July 19 to 29 in Busan, Republic of Korea, Uzbekistan’s nomination, Tashkent Modernist Architecture: modernity and tradition in Central Asia, was officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Today, competition in the global tourism market is determined not only by comfortable accommodation and high-quality service, but also by a country’s ability to showcase its unique national identity. Travelers seek to discover the history, culture, cuisine, handicrafts, and traditions of hospitality of the destinations they visit. In this regard, a hotel is no longer merely a place to stay—it is where visitors form their first and one of their most lasting impressions of a country.
The large-scale reforms being carried out in our country, along with the efforts to advance digitalization and introduce modern governance systems, have become a key driver of the development of New Uzbekistan.
On this special occasion, we sincerely congratulate our President on his birthday and wish him strong health, a long life, and continued great success in his responsible efforts to ensure the prosperity and well-being of our people
Uzbekistan continues to strengthen its position in the global MICE market by attracting major international events. A further testament to these efforts will be the hosting of two prestigious international education and science events—STEAM AHEAD Global Finals 2026 and the Young Achievers Leadership Academy (YALA)—in Tashkent in December 2026, with the support of the Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan and the Uzbekistan Convention Bureau.
An international session entitled “Interstate cooperation and increasing mutual tourist flows through the exchange of best national practices in providing assistance to tourists in emergency situations and ensuring the safety of CIS citizens” was held in St. Petersburg, Russian Federation, as part of the Interparliamentary assembly of the member states of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
Global interest in travel to Uzbekistan continues to grow. According to data from the international travel company Expedia Group, the number of travel-related searches for Uzbekistan increased by 54% in June compared to the same period last year. At the same time, the number of confirmed bookings also rose, indicating that growing traveler interest is translating into actual trip planning.
As part of a working visit to the Kyrgyz Republic, A. Akkulov, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan, held meetings with the management of Asman Airlines and Aero Nomad Airlines. During the discussions, the parties explored opportunities to expand air connectivity between Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, develop joint tourism products, and increase the flow of tourists between the two countries.
The solemn closing ceremony of the 65th International Flower Festival was held in the “New Uzbekistan” park, located in the Davlatabad district.
The Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan has adopted Resolution No. 372 of July 8, 2026, “On Supporting the Broad Implementation of a System to Enhance the Tourism Attractiveness of the Republic of Uzbekistan Through Film.”
As part of efforts to digitalize the tourism sector and further enhance the quality of services provided to visitors, the leadership of the Tourism Committee and the mobile operator Mobiuz held a meeting.
Chairman of the Tourism Committee A.Akkulov met with Ji Xiaodong, Chairman of the Tourism Chamber of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, to discuss promising projects aimed at developing tourism infrastructure between the two countries.
From 7 to 11 July 2026, Uzbekistan is hosting the First International Forum of Islamic Civilization, “The Path of Peace, Tolerance and Enlightenment,” across Tashkent, Samarkand, and Termez, bringing together leading scholars, religious figures, representatives of international organizations, and experts from around the world.
Continuing their journey across Uzbekistan, participants of the international electric vehicle expedition “The Marco Polo Drive of Peace” visited the Khorezm and Bukhara regions, where they explored the rich historical and cultural heritage and the modern tourism potential of both destinations.
A meeting was held at the Tourism Committee with a delegation from the Indian Association of Amusement Parks & Industries (IAAPI) led by the Association's Chairman, Ankur Maheshwari.
From 7 to 11 July 2026, Uzbekistan is hosting the First International Forum of Islamic Civilization across Tashkent, Samarkand, and Termez. The forum aims to promote the preservation, study, and global promotion of the rich spiritual and scientific heritage of Islamic civilization, which also serves as an important foundation for the further development of pilgrimage (ziyarat) tourism in Uzbekistan.
To enhance transport connectivity between the regions of Uzbekistan, a new regular domestic flight on the Bukhara–Sariosiyo route will be launched starting July 10. Travelers will now be able to fly from Bukhara to Sariosiyo in just one hour.
From 19 to 25 June, a delegation of leading Japanese tour operators is visiting Uzbekistan as part of a familiarization tour organized by the Tourism Committee. The program is aimed at strengthening partnerships with Japan's tourism industry and promoting Uzbekistan's diverse tourism offerings to the Japanese market.
A meeting was held between Chairman of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan A.Akkulov and Ambassador of Italy to Uzbekistan Guido De Sanctis to discuss prospects for further strengthening bilateral cooperation in the tourism sector.
The 10th Meeting of the Coordination Committee on Tourism of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) was held in Tashkent. The event, organized jointly by the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the OIC General Secretariat, brought together representatives of OIC member states and relevant OIC institutions. The meeting was one of the key international events held within the framework of Uzbekistan’s chairmanship of the 12th Session of the Islamic Conference of Tourism Ministers.
Uzbekistan continues to implement large-scale reforms aimed at elevating the tourism industry to a new level, ensuring the effective use of regional tourism potential, and developing modern tourism infrastructure. In particular, Presidential Resolution No. RP-161 of April 30, 2026, set the objective of establishing a modern tourism cluster in the Romitan District of the Bukhara Region.
On the sidelines of the Tashkent International Investment Forum, the “Uzbekistan – China Tourism Business Forum: New Opportunities, Sustainable Partnerships” was held at the CAEx exhibition complex in Tashkent.
On 18 June 2026, the Tashkent International Investment Forum (TIIF 2026) hosted a panel session titled “Investments in the Tourism Sector,” where international investors were introduced to new opportunities in Uzbekistan’s rapidly expanding tourism industry.
One of the leading American newspapers, “The New York Times”, has published an article highlighting the rapid development of tourism in Uzbekistan. The publication notes that Tashkent, Samarkand, and other historic cities of the country are becoming increasingly attractive destinations for international travelers.
Within the framework of the Tashkent International Investment Forum, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan Abdulaziz Akkulov held a meeting with Haider Ali Hadi, Director General of the Iraqi Economic Council, and representatives of Iraq’s business community.
On June 13–14, the traditional international ultramarathon “Zaamin Ultra” was held in the Zaamin National Nature Park of the Jizzakh region. Approximately 4,500 participants registered for the outdoor sporting event. Notably, the number of runners competing in the most challenging race category—the 50 km distance—almost doubled compared to the previous year.
The final stage of the strongman competition, organized at the initiative of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan in cooperation with the Khorezm Region Khokimiyat, was even more intense and spectacular than expected. The participants demonstrated their strength and skill, giving spectators unforgettable moments.
Uzbekistan’s national stand, organized by the Tourism Committee in cooperation with the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Russia, is being showcased at the International Tourism Forum “Путешествуй!”, currently taking place at the VDNH exhibition center in Moscow.
The VI International Pahlavon Mahmud Strongman Games are currently taking place at the Arda Khiva tourist complex in the city of Khiva, bringing together around 40 strongmen and athletes from 15 countries. Participants are competing in events that require exceptional strength, endurance, and a high level of skill.
The Tourism Committee, in cooperation with a JICA expert, conducted three Familiarization (FAM) Tours targeting tourist villages in Namangan, Fergana, and Andijan regions. This initiative was organized as a follow-up activity to the training program for tourist villages held in February 2026.
To promote Uzbekistan’s tourism potential on the international stage, establish new partnerships, and further increase inbound tourist flows, a large-scale familiarization tour for foreign tour operators was organized in the Fergana Valley. During the visit, the delegation members thoroughly explored tourist attractions, cultural heritage sites, modern infrastructure projects, and the activities of local entrepreneurs in the Andijan, Fergana, and Namangan regions.
A press conference dedicated to the International Tourism Exhibition IFTM Top Resa 2026 was held at the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in France. This year, Uzbekistan will serve as the country of honour of the exhibition, scheduled to take place on 15–17 September 2026 at Porte de Versailles in Paris. The press conference was held under the motto: “The value of travel! together we reveal what creates impact.”
The Tourism Committee organized a press tour for representatives of domestic and international media outlets as well as popular bloggers with the aim of promoting the tourism potential, cultural heritage, and historical richness of the Fergana region.
Representatives of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan secured first place in the tourism project presentation competition organized as part of the KOPIST-2026 program, conducted by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea.
In recent years, under the leadership of the President of Uzbekistan, large-scale reforms have been implemented to accelerate the development of the tourism sector, which is regarded as one of the country’s strategic economic sectors and an important driver of growth.
The III Central Asian Forum of entrepreneurs in the tourism sector — “Women in Tourism–2026” — took place at the “White Bird” complex in the city of Nukus.
On June 4, a meeting with the Ambassador of Malaysia, Ilham Tuah bin Illias, who is concluding his diplomatic mission in Uzbekistan, took place at the Tourism Committee.
From May 30 to June 4 of this year, the Tourism Committee organized a special press tour for foreign bloggers, showcasing the attractions, historical landmarks, and modern tourism facilities of the city of Tashkent, as well as the Andijan, Fergana, and Namangan regions.
One of Hong Kong’s leading media outlets, Now.com, has published an article on the development of tourism relations between Uzbekistan and Hong Kong. The publication also features an interview with the Chairman of the Tourism Committee, Abdulaziz Akkulov.
Chairman of the Tourism Committee, Abdulaziz Akkulov, held negotiations with representatives of one of China’s most authoritative higher education and research institutions in the field of tourism — Beijing International Studies University (BISU).
As part of the working visit of the Chairman of the Tourism Committee, A. Akkulov, to China, a meeting was held with Lei Hongchen, Deputy Chairman of the state investment fund “Silk Road Fund”. During the meeting, the parties discussed further expanding cooperation between Uzbekistan and China in the fields of tourism and infrastructure.
The World Intelligence Expo 2026, a major international exhibition and forum dedicated to artificial intelligence and intelligent technologies, has officially opened in the Chinese city of Tianjin. The main theme of the event, taking place from May 28 to 31 at the National Convention and Exhibition Center, is: “Intelligence: Extensive Development Opportunities and a Factor of Sustainable Growth,” focusing on the broad implementation of artificial intelligence across various sectors of the economy and society.
According to the decision of the President of the country, five consecutive days off have been declared for the people of Uzbekistan in connection with the sacred holiday of Kurban bayram.
To discuss current challenges and prospects for the development of alternative types of tourism, exchange scientific and practical experience, and strengthen cooperation between the academic, educational, and professional communities, the International Scientific and Practical Conference “Alternative tourism: emerging trends and opportunities” was held on May 21, 2026, at the Tashkent State Agrarian University.
Within the framework of the youth environmental campaign “Train to the Aral Sea” and the eco-marathon “We Are Together with the Aral Sea,” organized by the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan, participants arrived in the Republic of Karakalpakstan and began exploring the tourism, cultural, and natural potential of the Aral Sea region.
Today, May 21, as part of the “3rd Interregional Uzbekistan–China Forum” held in the city of Xi’an (PRC), a dedicated forum on tourism cooperation between the two countries took place.
Representatives of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan are participating in the “KOPIST High-Level Policy Tourism Forum 2026,” a regular event organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea.
In accordance with Resolution No. 843 of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated December 30, 2025, “On measures to organize and hold a festival of artists in Bobur city, Andijan region”, the Academy of Arts of Uzbekistan is holding the “Festival of Artists” in the city of Babur, Andijan Region, for the first time from May 18 to 22 of this year.
As part of the participation of the delegation of the Republic of Uzbekistan in the 17th International Economic Forum “Russia — Islamic World: KazanForum,” a series of meetings and negotiations were held aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation in the tourism sector, increasing mutual tourist flows, and strengthening interregional ties.
The delegation of Uzbekistan is participating in IMEX, one of the world’s largest and most prestigious international exhibitions in the field of business (MICE) tourism, currently taking place in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. The event brings together thousands of representatives from more than 150 countries, as well as hundreds of hosted buyers.
From May 15 to 17, the III International Festival of Gold Embroidery and Jewelry Art was held in Bukhara — one of Uzbekistan’s leading tourism centers — bringing together artisans, designers, art experts, scholars, and guests from nearly 50 countries around the world.
From now on, work in every region will be organized on a systematic basis according to the following chain: “attractive location — project — infrastructure — entrepreneur — promotion — tourist.”
On May 15 of this year, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan Abdulaziz Akkulov held a meeting with representatives of the scientific community, during which the Tourism Development Strategy for 2026–2030 and the country’s long-term tourism development model were discussed.
Within the framework of the 72nd Meeting of the UN Tourism Commission for Europe, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan Abdulaziz Akkulov held a meeting with UN Tourism Secretary-General Shaikha Al Nowais.
A delegation headed by the Chairman of the Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan, A. Akkulov, is taking part in the 72nd Meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Europe, being held in the Republic of Malta.
The Tourism Committee, together with the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Japan, has organized a visit to Uzbekistan for the creative team of the popular Japanese television project The Global Train Journey.
On May 11 of this year, the Chairman of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Abdulaziz Akkulov, held a meeting with Cliff Zhang, head of the company Templewater.
On 5–6 May 2026, the “Made in Uzbekistan” national products exhibition and the Uzbekistan–China Business Forum were held in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China.
On the sidelines of the 59th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan Abdulaziz Akkulov held a meeting with a delegation from Saudi Arabia led by Mohammad Abunayyan, Founder and Chairman of Acwa and Chairman of Vision Invest.
From April 30 to May 2, the Bishkek International Tourism Fair 2026 is taking place in Bishkek, where Uzbekistan is actively participating with a national stand. This prestigious event is one of the leading B2B and B2C platforms in the tourism and hospitality sector.
The Khorezm Lazgi dance, which occupies a special place in the rich history of dance art in our country, is known not only in Uzbekistan but also abroad for its distinctive performance style and captivating appeal. The inclusion of the Khorezm Lazgi dance in UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity also testifies to its uniqueness as an art form.
To widely promote the tourism potential of the Jizzakh region, the “Sumalak Sayli” festival was organized in the tourist village of Ukhum in the Forish district.
The Tourism Committee organized a press tour to the Imam Bukhari complex, one of the country's largest spiritual, educational, and pilgrimage centers, which was renovated at the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
