Kazakhstan Accelerates Tourism Growth through Infrastructural Upgrades and Digital Enhancements
Bustling Kazakhstan's tourism industry is experiencing a revolutionary growth spurt, as highlighted by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov during a recent government meeting. From agritourism in rural regions to cutting-edge digital innovations, the Central Asian nation is setting the stage for an unparalleled tourist experience.
Going Green: National Parks and Beyond
Minister Yerbol Myrzabossynov has proposed empowering regional administrations to develop tourism infrastructure outside urban areas, including in national parks. Recent years have seen the construction of eight visitor centers and the expansion of trail systems and basic infrastructure to promote ecotourism. In 2024 alone, a staggering 2.8 million people visited Kazakhstan's 14 national parks—a 18% increase from the previous year.
To support rural development, farmers are now invited to embrace agritourism, with Kazakhstan boasting over 200,000 farms. This move is expected to create jobs and boost rural living standards.
Opening Doors: Green Corridors and Neo Nomad Visas
Plans to overhaul the hotel classification system, stagnant since 2008, aim to align with international standards. A new green corridor system is being piloted at checkpoints with Russia and the Kyrgyz Republic, making it easier for organized tourist groups to enter the country. To facilitate travel for digital nomads and long-stay visitors, officials have suggested making the Neo Nomad Visa available online.
Shopping 'Til You Drop: Tax-Free and E-Guides
With the expansion of its Tax Free system, Kazakhstan is chasing shopping tourism by encouraging foreign shoppers with tax refunds. Since its pilot implementation in 2019, the program has generated sales of $9.3 million. The government now seeks to roll out the system nationwide.
In an effort to improve tourism services, the E-Guides digital platform has been launched. This handy application helps tourists find certified local guides easily.
Unleashing the Potential: Key Destinations and Digital Projects
The Schuchinsk-Burabai resort area is undergoing significant development, with plans to build eight observation platforms and upgrade 14 tourist routes. The region also aims to develop a public beach at Lake Shchuchye. Key projects include a congress center, a hotel with a water park and villas, a cottage town, and an apart-hotel under the Hilton brand.
Almaty Mayor Yerbolat Dossayev showcased one of the city's key digital projects, SuperApp, which enables users to buy tickets, plan routes, book tours, and explore attractions in virtual reality. He emphasized Almaty's growing MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism sector, supported by upcoming facilities like the new Almaty Museum of Arts and the Tselinny Center for Contemporary Culture.
Almaty is also on track to become a world-class ski resort, boasting 150 kilometers of trails and expected to attract up to five million visitors annually. Another significant initiative is the development of the Mangystau tourist zone.
Everyone's Welcome: Inclusive Tourism
The Pioneer family resort's Murat Karatai is advocating for the expansion of inclusive children's resorts for the 300,000 children in Kazakhstan who require special educational support. He proposes creating a nationwide network of such resorts and a national center to train specialists in family and inclusive tourism.
The Almaty mountain cluster is well-positioned to scale this model and develop specialized resorts that cater to families, children, safety, and social inclusion.
Celebrating Culture: Event Tourism
Malik Khassenov, producer at Astana Concert company, outlined several upcoming events to boost event tourism, including the Alem Fest music festival starring Craig David, Comic Con Astana, and a concert by American singer and actress Jennifer Lopez.
These developments highlight Kazakhstan's commitment to growing and diversifying its tourism sector, focusing on natural wonders while embracing digital innovations and cultural events.
- By 2029, it's expected that the tourism industry in Akmola, Kazakhstan, will offer simplified and sustainable travel options, with a significant emphasis on ecotourism and local guide services, thanks to the launch of the E-Guides digital platform.
- In line with the growth of Kazakhstan's tourism sector, the Ministry of Culture and Sports is planning to organize major cultural events, such as music festivals and conventions, aiming to attract more visitors and celebrate the country's rich cultural heritage.
- In a bid to make travel more accessible and encourage digital nomads, Kazakhstan is considering extending its Neo Nomad Visa online and implementing green corridors at checkpoints with neighboring countries, streamlining the entry process for organized tourist groups.
