Uzbekistan Welcomes 2.87 Mln Tourists in Q1 2026 Boom
Uzbekistan has recorded a dramatic increase in international tourism during the first three months of 2026.
According to official figures provided by the Tourism Committee to Kursiv Uzbekistan, the country welcomed 2.87 mln foreign visitors between January and March. This represents a staggering year-on-year increase with 770,000 more tourists arriving than in the same period last year.
Central Asia drives the influx
Neighbouring nations provided the vast majority of international arrivals during the first quarter. Kyrgyzstan topped the list as the primary source of tourists with 807,000 citizens crossing the border. Tajikistan followed closely with 713,900 visitors and Kazakhstan contributed a further 681,900 travellers.
The country also proved to be a popular destination for tourists from further afield. A significant number of visitors arrived from Russia (223,300) and Afghanistan (120,100). The Tourism Committee also reported steady arrival numbers from several other key markets:
- China: 87,000
- Turkmenistan: 79,000
- Turkey: 39,400
- India: 12,600
- South Korea: 7,800
Showcasing the nation to global tour operators
To capitalise on this momentum and attract even more international holidaymakers, Uzbekistan is currently hosting an extensive familiarisation trip for the global travel industry. Running from April 17 to 24, the promotional tour has brought together travel agency representatives from 20 different countries across Europe and Asia.
The diverse delegation includes industry professionals from France, Italy, Norway, Switzerland, Belgium, Turkey, Russia, Kazakhstan, Pakistan and China.
Throughout the week-long programme, these foreign tour operators are exploring key destinations across Tashkent, the Khorezm region and the Republic of Karakalpakstan. The delegates have already toured the Islamic Civilisation Centre where they were introduced to the country’s rich historical heritage, rare manuscripts and state-of-the-art interactive exhibitions. Participants were also treated to a comprehensive tour of the capital’s main landmarks.
Tourism authorities are highly optimistic that showcasing these locations will help secure new business partnerships and establish fresh travel itineraries, particularly in regional areas that remain largely undiscovered by international tourists.
