Uzbekistan showcased its cultural legacy and booming tourism sector during the “Uzbekistan – Qatar International Tourism Forum” in Doha yesterday, unveiling plans to attract millions of Gulf visitors through visa-free travel, direct flights, and strategic partnerships.
The event, organised by Uzbekistan’s Tourism Committee with the support of its embassy in Qatar, served as a key platform to deepen bilateral co-operation, showcase Uzbekistan’s growing tourism potential, and foster crucial business contacts within the industry.
In his remarks, Uzbekistan ambassador Ashraf Khodjaev described his country as “a place of Islamic heritage and history, warm hospitality and diverse food, quiet beauty and crossroads of cultures”.
He cited the timeless allure of iconic cities such as Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, noting that “these are not just destinations, they are living legacies... when you visit these cities, you step into the stories themselves becoming a part of the journey that has inspired travellers for centuries”.
Khodjaev highlighted the unprecedented accessibility for international visitors, particularly from the Gulf region.
“This rich cultural journey is now more accessible than ever,” he said. “Travelling from Qatar to Uzbekistan is now easier than ever. Regular flights by Qatar Airways already take you there with a very-friendly visa regime, almost 100 nationalities can travel to Uzbekistan without visa.”
The forum brought together representatives from government agencies, tour operators, airlines, and investment and trade organisations from both nations, signalling a strong commitment to expanding economic partnership.
A presentation titled “Uzbekistan – the Pearl of the Silk Road” outlined Uzbekistan’s vast tourism potential, spotlighting its Unesco World Heritage sites, unique tourist routes, and ongoing infrastructure projects.
Special attention was given to niche tourism opportunities such as pilgrimage, medical, gastronomic, and eco-tourism, with a particular focus on creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for tourists from Arab countries.
In his key note address, Uzbekistan’s Tourism Committee chairman Umid Shadiev underlined his nation’s transformative journey.
“As you know, Uzbekistan has long been an integral part of the vibrant Silk Road and is renowned worldwide for its rich history, diverse culture, gastronomy, natural heritage, as well as amazing hospitality,” he said. “Today, our hospitality sector is undergoing major transformation, a true renaissance.”
Shadiev detailed the strategic pillars supporting this, including the liberalisation of visa policies, streamlining border procedures, and expanding air routes.
He also highlighted efforts to cultivate a conducive business environment through tax breaks and other incentives, all while upholding principles of inclusivity and sustainability.
The results, he stressed, speak for themselves: “In 2024 alone, more than 10mn tourists visited Uzbekistan, generating $3.5bn in revenue, which is a 1.5-fold increase from the previous year.”
Shadiev announced an ambitious target: “Our goal is to reach 50mn annual visitors by 2030.”
He pointed to the strengthening relationship between Qatar and Uzbekistan, noting active engagement in trade, investment, education, and tourism.
“It is quickly becoming one of the key drivers of this growing partnership,” the official added. “We share a common goal, like Uzbekistan, Qatar is focused on diversifying its economy, developing non-resource sectors and placing tourism high on the agenda.”
Shadiev echoed the envoy’s view, reiterating the ease of travel for Qatari citizens, confirming that a visa-free regime was already established between the two nations.
He said that Qatar had been among the first countries in the region for which Uzbekistan liberalised its visa policy.
The forum held bilateral B2B (business-to-business) and G2B (government-to-business) meetings, which witnessed interest.
These sessions facilitated direct contacts between tourism industry representatives from both sides and led to agreements, including plans to organise promotional tours to Uzbekistan for Qatari tour operators and media representatives.
A promotional photo exhibition showcased Uzbekistan’s breathtaking natural and architectural landmarks, alongside displays of traditional handicrafts.
Attendees also had the opportunity to savour traditional Uzbek cuisine.