In recent years, tourism has become one of the priority areas in Uzbekistan’s foreign economic strategy. As part of this policy, the country is actively strengthening its partnership with the European Union, turning the tourism sector into a powerful driver of economic growth, cultural exchange, and enhanced international reputation.

Collaboration with the EU encompasses a broad spectrum of initiatives — from joint infrastructure and digital projects to promoting tourism on the global stage. A significant milestone was the first “Central Asia – European Union” summit held in April 2025 in Samarkand. A declaration on strategic partnership was adopted at the summit, highlighting the importance of tourism development.

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, put forward the “One Tour – The Whole Region” initiative, aimed at unifying Central Asian tourist routes in line with EU standards. The goal is to simplify visa procedures, promote cultural exchange, and make travel across the region more accessible and appealing to European tourists.

Cultural cooperation has become a key element of this partnership. One of the most notable events was the large-scale production of the ballet Lazgi, which symbolized the cultural dialogue between Uzbekistan and the countries of Europe. Uzbekistan is also participating in international programs such as Horizon Europe, which contribute to the development of scientific and educational potential, directly impacting the quality of tourism services.

The economic benefits are already noticeable. In 2025, Uzbekistan expects to welcome over 11 million foreign tourists, with industry revenues projected to reach $4 billion. To achieve these goals, the country is actively modernizing its infrastructure and implementing digital solutions in the tourism sector. For example, the CAREN program established high-speed connectivity between universities in Central Asia and Europe, promoting the exchange of knowledge and innovation in the field of tourism.

Special attention is given to promoting Uzbekistan’s tourism image on international platforms. Leading media outlets such as Euronews, BBC, CNN, and National Geographic present the country as a promising destination, which contributes to the growth of tourist inflow from Europe.

A significant contribution to the promotion was made by the roadshows organized in European capitals—Berlin, Paris, Madrid, Rome, Zagreb, and Warsaw. These events not only showcased Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage but also served as a platform for establishing business connections with tour operators and investors.

Moreover, sustainable tourism development is a key focus: projects aimed at preserving natural and cultural heritage are being implemented, environmental standards are being introduced in tourist areas, and green infrastructure is being developed.

The partnership between Uzbekistan and the European Union in tourism is more than just an exchange of experience—it is a strategic alliance that brings real economic, cultural, and social benefits. This collaboration creates new opportunities for the region, strengthens bonds between peoples, and makes Central Asia more open and appealing to the world.

Chairman of the Tourism Committee
 U.Shadiev

According to the Travel & Tourism Economic Impact Research 2026 report published by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), Central Asia was the world's fastest-growing tourism region in 2025.

WTTC conducts its annual research by dividing the world into 13 major regions. Based on the 2025 results, Central Asia ranked first globally across several key tourism performance indicators. Uzbekistan emerged as the regional leader, recording the strongest performance among the Central Asian countries across all of these indicators.

According to the report, the total contribution of travel and tourism to Central Asia's gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 17.7% in 2025, while the sector's direct contribution to GDP grew by 19.6%. Visitor exports reached $9.9 billion, representing a 26.4% increase compared to the previous year. Central Asia ranked first in the world in terms of growth in visitor exports. Nearly half of the region's total visitor exports came from Uzbekistan, which generated $4.8 billion in tourism exports in 2025.

According to WTTC data for 2025, Uzbekistan was the most popular travel destination for residents of Central Asia.

Report notes that Uzbekistan's leading position is driven by its rich historical and cultural heritage and its strong appeal to travellers from across the region. “Overall, these figures confirm the regional nature of tourism: residents of Central Asia travel within their own region more frequently than anywhere else”, the report states.

In addition, WTTC highlights the significant potential for creating a unified tourism space across Central Asia. According to the organization's experts, simplifying border procedures, expanding air connectivity and transport infrastructure, developing joint tourism routes, and promoting Central Asia as a single tourism destination will help attract more international visitors from other regions of the world.

According to the report, 64.3% of all tourism spending in Central Asia in 2025 came from international visitors, while 35.7% was generated by domestic tourism within the region. Among international visitor spending, 84.5% was related to leisure travel and 15.5% to business travel.

WTTC forecasts that by 2036, the total contribution of the travel and tourism sector to Central Asia's economy will reach $29.7 billion.

Central Asia possesses unique advantages for the formation of a unified regional tourism space. Historic cities of the Great Silk Road, rich cultural heritage, diverse natural landscapes, and centuries-old traditions provide exceptional opportunities for developing virtually every modern form of tourism—from cultural and heritage tourism and pilgrimage tourism to gastronomic, ethnographic, ecotourism, adventure, and medical tourism.

One of the most significant initiatives in this area was proposed by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who put forward the idea of establishing the "Central Asia Tourism Ring"—a unified tourism area bringing together the countries of the region. The initiative was presented in May 2026 during the Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Development Bank.

Presenting the initiative, the President emphasized that amid growing global uncertainty, millions of travelers are increasingly choosing safe destinations, while Central Asia possesses enormous potential for the development of diverse tourism segments. Owing to comprehensive reforms in tourism infrastructure, improvements in service quality, visa and transport policies, and enhanced traveler safety, the number of foreign visitors to Uzbekistan has increased sixfold over the past decade. In 2025 alone, the country welcomed 11.7 million international visitors.

The development of the Central Asia Tourism Ring extends cooperation beyond the boundaries of the region itself. On the contrary, it creates new opportunities for collaboration with countries historically connected to Central Asia through the routes of the Great Silk Road. One of the most successful examples of such cooperation is the tourism partnership between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan.

Bilateral cooperation in tourism is built upon a solid foundation. An intergovernmental agreement on cooperation was signed as early as 1996. Over the years, the two countries have significantly expanded their legal and institutional framework for cooperation, including the adoption of the 2024–2026 Tourism Action Plan between the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

A new impetus to bilateral cooperation was given on 4 April 2025, when the National PR Centre of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Azerbaijan Tourism Board signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Samarkand. The document provides for the implementation of the Joint Silk Road Highlights Tour project, aimed at jointly promoting tourism routes along the Great Silk Road in international markets.

The concept of the project is based on combining the tourism potential of the two countries into a single travel experience. The itinerary includes the historic cities of Baku, Shamakhi, Sheki, Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand, enabling international visitors to discover the rich cultural heritage of several major centers of the Great Silk Road within a single journey. Particular emphasis is placed on the joint promotion of tourism routes through webinars, roadshows, B2B meetings, and presentations for representatives of the international tourism industry.

A practical embodiment of this initiative was the joint Highlights of the Silk Road roadshow held in October 2025. The promotional campaign covered Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Spain. During the roadshow, tourism companies from Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan presented their tourism offerings to European partners, conducted a series of B2B meetings, and discussed opportunities for developing combined tour packages and expanding bilateral cooperation. The business programme was complemented by cultural events showcasing the rich traditions and cultural heritage of both countries.

The effectiveness of these joint efforts is also reflected in tourism statistics. During the period from January to May 2026, the number of Azerbaijani citizens visiting Uzbekistan increased by more than 80 percent compared with the corresponding period of the previous year. This strong growth demonstrates the increasing interest in Uzbekistan's tourism potential and the effectiveness of the two countries' joint promotional efforts.

Alongside the implementation of major joint projects, practical cooperation between the respective tourism authorities continues to expand. Representatives of the tourism administrations of both countries regularly participate in international tourism exhibitions, industry forums, and meetings of international organizations. They also conduct reciprocal official visits, organize familiarization tours for media representatives and tourism professionals, and implement joint cultural and gastronomic initiatives. This format of cooperation facilitates the exchange of expertise, strengthens the promotion of national tourism brands, and contributes to the development of new competitive tourism products.

Looking ahead, the two countries intend to further develop joint Silk Road tourism routes, expand professional exchange programmes for tourism specialists, strengthen cooperation in tourism education and capacity building, and intensify the joint promotion of their tourism potential in third-country markets.

Today, Uzbekistan's tourism policy is guided by the principles of openness, partnership, and regional connectivity. The initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan to establish the Central Asia Tourism Ring creates new opportunities for developing modern multi-destination tourism routes, while the successful implementation of joint projects with Azerbaijan demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated efforts to promote the shared heritage of the Great Silk Road. The consistent expansion of such cooperation contributes to enhancing Uzbekistan's tourism appeal, strengthening international partnerships, and creating new opportunities for the sustainable development of the tourism industry.

Tourism in Uzbekistan is experiencing a period of notable growth. More and more international travelers are choosing the country, and as tourist flows increase, so do opportunities for travel: new routes and tourism products are emerging, while ties with foreign partners are becoming stronger. From January to August 2026, Uzbekistan welcomed 9.1 million foreign tourists — 21.1% more than during the same period last year.

Cooperation with the CIS countries plays an important role in this process. Uzbekistan shares long-standing cultural ties, well-developed transport connections, and sustained mutual interest in travel with these countries. The figures are telling. In the first eight months of 2026, nearly 868,000 tourists from Russia visited Uzbekistan — 30.8% more than a year earlier. As a result, among countries that do not border Uzbekistan, Russia is the largest source of tourists. Growth in tourist flows from Azerbaijan has been even more pronounced: the number of travelers from Azerbaijan to Uzbekistan increased by 63.3% compared with the same period last year, reaching 22,000.

These figures are also the result of practical cooperation — from transport links and direct contacts between tourism industry representatives to the promotion of new destinations and travel programs. In March, for example, Uzbekistan presented its tourism potential at MITT-2026, the Moscow International Exhibition of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, where B2B meetings were held with Russian partners, involving more than 200 companies. Air connectivity is also expanding: the Kazan–Tashkent route was launched in 2026, while further expansion of the direct-flight network is under discussion, including routes from Russia to Samarkand, Bukhara, Namangan, and Fergana.

With Azerbaijan, one of the notable areas of cooperation has been the joint promotion of the two countries' tourism opportunities abroad. In 2025, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan held the European roadshow “Highlights of the Silk Road,” covering Frankfurt, Vienna, Zurich, Budapest, Prague, and Barcelona. Cooperation is also continuing at the professional level through the participation of tourism industry representatives in specialized events and familiarization tours in both countries.

Uzbekistan has even closer tourism ties with its neighboring states. Here, not only geographical proximity and traditionally high levels of mutual travel play a role. Cooperation is gradually expanding to cover a growing range of practical issues — from the work of tour operators and cross-border tourism to the creation of routes that combine the attractions and opportunities of several territories. Cooperation with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan is developing at the level of relevant government agencies, regions, and tourism businesses. Joint presentations of tourism potential, industry meetings, forums, and familiarization tours are being held, while direct contacts between tour operators are being maintained. In particular, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan have prepared a draft tourism cooperation program for 2026–2027.

At the same time, the high level of mutual travel and the experience accumulated through cooperation open up significantly broader opportunities. The potential of existing ties can be used not only to further develop tourism between the countries of the region, but also to jointly attract travelers from other parts of the world.

For a tourist traveling to Central Asia from afar, the opportunity to visit several countries as part of a single trip can be an additional advantage. The cities of the Great Silk Road, pilgrimage centers, natural areas, cuisine, crafts, and traditions of different countries do not necessarily have to compete with one another. Instead, they can complement each other, creating a richer and longer travel experience.

This perspective is reflected in the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, to create a “Central Asian Tourism Ring,” put forward this spring at the 59th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Asian Development Bank in Samarkand.

The head of state noted that Central Asia has significant potential in pilgrimage, cultural, gastronomic, ethnographic, adventure, and medical tourism. In this regard, he proposed creating a tourism space that would bring together the countries of the region.

There is already a foundation for such an approach. Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan are already developing joint tourism products, including “Silk Road Journeys” and “Journeys to the Natural Attractions of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.” Further proposals include developing combined tours, organizing joint expeditions by tourism companies, and promoting Central Asia as a single tourist destination for visitors from third countries.

There is also progress in other areas, particularly in introducing a simplified border-crossing mechanism between Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. This is gradually creating conditions in which traveling across several countries becomes not only an interesting experience for tourists, but also a more convenient one.

The next important task is to turn individual initiatives and routes into a clear and attractive proposition for international travelers. This requires convenient transport connections, easier movement between countries, ready-made combined travel programs, and closer cooperation among tour operators. In this way, the geographical proximity of the countries can become an advantage, allowing Central Asia to be presented as a region where travelers can experience a remarkably diverse range of tourism offerings within a single trip.

In this context, cooperation on multilateral platforms is also gaining particular importance. The upcoming Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and the meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the CIS will once again bring regional cooperation issues to the forefront. For the tourism industry, the experience accumulated through cooperation creates an opportunity to move further — from intensive mutual travel and individual joint projects toward more systematic efforts to attract travelers from other parts of the world.

For Uzbekistan, this represents an opportunity to develop its own tourism destinations while also incorporating them into longer journeys across Central Asia. In this format, each country retains its own tourism appeal, while the proximity and diversity of the countries in the region become an additional advantage for international travelers.

On April 13, 2026, Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan was officially recognized as the largest museum of Islamic civilization in the world, receiving the prestigious title from Guinness World Records.

The solemn award ceremony was attended by the official representative and Şeyda Subaşı Gemici, judge of Guinness World Records, who confirmed that the Center meets all international standards.

The event was also attended by the architects, planners, designers and builders who made a significant contribution to the project’s realization. The award was presented to the members of the Center's Scientific Council.

Şeyda Subaşı noted:

“As an official Guinness World Records adjudicator, I can state that every corner of the museum and every exhibit presented possesses its own uniqueness and cultural value. It is evident that years of large-scale, meticulous work stand behind the creation of this space.

Visiting the museum left a powerful impression on me - it is truly a profound and meaningful experience. Although it is impossible to cover absolutely everything during a single visit, the evaluation process strictly followed established procedures: I used an official logbook where every exhibit was recorded and verified by specialists in Islamic archaeology, art and science.

I am sincerely impressed by the level of work accomplished and would like to express my gratitude to everyone involved in the realization of this project. This is an outstanding achievement, the result of colossal effort and high professionalism. The contribution of every participant deserves individual respect. And, in the language of Guinness World Records, this is truly “Officially Amazing”.

Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan is a large-scale scientific, educational, and museum complex, implemented as an original mega-project by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Initiated in 2017 and completed on March 17, 2026, it serves as a unique cultural and educational platform for “New Uzbekistan”, integrating scientific potential, cultural heritage and modern technology within a single space. The project embodies the head of state's strategic vision to strengthen national identity and establish Uzbekistan as a premier global hub of Islamic civilization.

Chief Architect of the project Abdukakhor Turdiev noted:

“The uniqueness of the Center lies in the fact that its architecture reflects the rich culture and heritage of Uzbekistan. Thanks to the ongoing reforms, the country is confidently opening up to the world, establishing itself not only as a hub of science and culture but also as a state actively participating in the global dialogue of civilizations.”

Today, Center has become one of the most visited cultural and scientific venues in the region, welcoming up to 5,000 visitors daily. This demonstrates the high level of interest from both the citizens of Uzbekistan and international guests.

The awarding of the Guinness World Records title is not only a recognition of the project's scale but also a high tribute to the labor of hundreds of specialists, scientists, and experts who participated in its realization.

Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director of the Center of Islamic Civilization, noted:

“Undoubtedly, this award is a well-deserved honor and a rightful recognition of the original project of the esteemed President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

The esteemed President has created all the necessary conditions for our activities, and today our primary goal is to effectively utilize this potential for the realization of large-scale scientific and educational projects aimed at preserving and popularizing the rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan, as well as promoting the humane ideas of our sacred religion of Islam as a religion of goodness, peace, enlightenment and tolerance.”

Obtaining the Guinness World Records status strengthens Uzbekistan's role as a key tourist and historical center of Islamic science, culture, and education. It also confirms the Center's significance as a modern platform for the dialogue of civilizations, based on the principles of mutual respect, tolerance and cultural diversity.

Source: Press Service of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan

Registration Instructions for the Tashkent International Marathon

Method 1. Online Registration on ProRun.uz

1. Go to prorun.uz.
2. In the main menu, select Tashkent International Marathon.
3. Create an account on the website:
• fill in all required fields;
• upload a profile photo for your avatar (you may use any suitable image).
4. Click “Register”.
5. Choose one of the available distances: 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, or 42 km.
6. Read the competition regulations and terms and confirm your agreement by checking the box.
7. Choose a convenient payment method:
• local payment systems, or
• VISA / Mastercard.
8. Enter your payment details and complete the payment.
9. After successful payment, a QR code will appear in your personal account. You must present this QR code when collecting your race kit.
10. An email with a PDF document confirming your registration will be sent to the email address you provided.

Method 2. Registration by Email

(for teams, companies, organizations, and countries)

You can submit your application by sending an email to:
info@prorun.uz

Email subject line should be:
Application for Tashkent International Marathon / Name of the team, company, or country

You must attach an Excel file to the email with the following columns filled in:

1. Name
2. Surname
3. Date of Birth
4. Gender (male / female)
5. Distance (5 K, 10 K, 21 K, 42 K)
6. Team (name of the team / company / country)
7. Email
8. Personal Tel (personal contact phone number)
9. Emergency Tel (emergency contact phone number)

After processing your application, the organizers will contact you by email and provide further instructions regarding payment and registration confirmation.

Method 3. Registration via Telegram Bot

You can also register via the official Telegram bot:
👉 @prorunuzbot

The registration process via the Telegram bot is the same as online registration on ProRun.uz:
— you will fill in your participant details step by step;
— choose a distance;
— confirm your agreement with the regulations;
— select a payment method and complete the payment;
— after successful registration, you will receive a confirmation and a QR code to collect your race kit.

Event Program

Saturday, April 4, HUMO Arena

Kids Run — 17:00
Fireworks — 19:30
Concert — 19:35–21:00

Sunday, April 5, HUMO Arena

05:00 — Opening of the старт village
06:00 — Marathon start (42 km)
07:30 — Half marathon start (21 km)
09:00 — 10 km race start
10:00 — Press conference and awards ceremony (42 km, 21 km, 10 km)
11:00 — 5 km Fun Run start
12:00 — Event closing

Tashkent International Marathon: International Standards, a Certified Course, Records, and the Image of Uzbekistan’s Future

Tashkent, Uzbekistan — On April 5, 2026, the capital of Uzbekistan will host the Tashkent International Marathon, the country’s largest international mass running event, bringing together more than 15,000 participants from over 30 countries, as well as thousands of spectators and visitors to the city.

The Tashkent International Marathon has been held for the eighth consecutive year and has become one of the country’s key sporting traditions. Each year, the number of participants steadily grows, reflecting the increasing interest in running, mass sports, and an active lifestyle. The marathon is not only a competition but also an important social project: the participation of citizens helps shape a healthy generation and a strong, active nation, and strengthens the values of physical culture and a healthy way of life.

The project is also a large-scale international platform that brings together sport, urban development, modern technologies, and the image positioning of Uzbekistan on the global stage.

Вот полный, аккуратный и профессионально звучащий перевод на английский:

Ideology: The Image of the Future

The ideological concept of the Tashkent International Marathon reflects Uzbekistan’s strategic course toward development and modernization:

— the country’s intention to send its first astronaut since independence into space as a symbol of a scientific and technological breakthrough;
— the image of modern Tashkent as a dynamically developing capital;
— the development of financial markets and the investment environment;
— digitalization and the implementation of artificial intelligence;
— modern approaches to governance and infrastructure;
— a focus on progress, innovation, and human potential.

Thus, the marathon becomes not only a sporting event, but also an ideological, image-building, and communication project that demonstrates the country’s course toward the future.

New Uzbekistan: Integration with the World Through Sport and Openness

The Tashkent International Marathon reflects the course of reforms being implemented within the framework of the “New Uzbekistan” strategy, aimed at strengthening international cooperation, openness, and the country’s integration into the global space.

The development of international sports projects has become an important part of modern state policy, where sport is seen as a tool for:

— expanding international humanitarian ties;
— promoting a positive image of the country;
— developing tourism and investment attractiveness;
— shaping an open and modern urban environment.

The marathon brings together participants from dozens of countries, demonstrating the practical implementation of the principles of openness and intercultural dialogue. Hosting an event of international level confirms the transformation of Tashkent into a dynamic global city where modern technologies, sustainable development, and new standards for organizing public events come together.

In the context of the reforms of New Uzbekistan, the development of mass sports is viewed as an element of strengthening human capital, social activity, and the country’s integration into the global sporting community.

International Status and Quality Standards

Since 2022, the Tashkent International Marathon has held the World Athletics Label — an official quality mark from the international governing body World Athletics for road races (marathons, half marathons, 10 km races, and others).

Holding the World Athletics Label means that the event meets strict international requirements and has passed an audit under World Athletics standards. In particular, this confirms that:

— the marathon course is certified and accurately measured;
— a professional timing system is used and results are correctly recorded;
— international standards of safety, medical support, and event organization are observed;
— race results are officially recognized and can be used for rankings, records, and qualifications;
— an international level of participants is ensured and transparent, unified rules apply to all;
— the event has passed inspection and audit for compliance with World Athletics requirements.

In addition, the marathon course holds an AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) certificate, confirming the accuracy of the distance measurement and compliance with international standards for road races.

Inclusion and Social Mission

The Tashkent International Marathon is implemented in cooperation with the Agency for Social Protection of the Republic of Uzbekistan and follows the principles of inclusion and equal opportunities. The concept of the project is based not on separating people with disabilities, but on adapting the format of participation.

All participants start from the same старт line and cover the same distance. The only differentiation is based on the means of completing the distance (for example, wheelchairs or special devices) and on award categories, of which six are предусмотрено. This approach ensures a fair, transparent system of results evaluation in line with international practice.

As part of the development of the inclusive format of the event, the participation of handbike athletes (wheelchair marathoners) in the full marathon distance of 42.2 km is also planned. Their participation will become part of the concept of adaptation rather than separation and will emphasize the openness of the marathon to different formats of sport and ways of completing the distance.

This approach highlights the philosophy of the Tashkent International Marathon as a truly unifying event, where sport becomes a tool for social integration, equality, and mutual respect, and participation in the race becomes a symbol of an open and inclusive society that meets modern international standards for organizing mass sporting events.

Organizer

The organizer of the Tashkent International Marathon is ProRun.

The Race Director of the marathon is Andrey Kulikov, who has more than 8 years of experience in organizing creative marathons and international-level running events.

In 2025, Andrey Kulikov completed a specialized race director program in New York, and in 2026 he will implement the acquired standards and best international practices together with the Uzbekistan Athletics Federation.

Start, Finish, and Course

The start and finish of the Tashkent International Marathon will be located at HUMO Arena.

The marathon course will run along the central streets of Tashkent, covering key city avenues and iconic landmarks of the capital.

The route is laid out as follows:

— from the intersection near HUMO Arena to Nukusskaya Street (Shox Med Center area);
— then past Bobur Eco Park and the “Courage” Monument;
— then to the intersection of Abdulla Qadiri Street and Abay Street (near the Korzinka supermarket).

This route design makes it possible to showcase the modern image of Tashkent and create a spectacular urban course of international level.

Opening Ceremony

On April 4, 2026, at 19:00, the official opening ceremony of the Tashkent International Marathon will take place at HUMO Arena. The program includes:

— a parade of participants from different countries, highlighting the international status of the event;
— a festive concert and cultural program for residents and guests of the capital.

The opening ceremony will become a bright, standalone event in the city’s life and will emphasize the status of the marathon as a major international sporting and cultural project. The opening ceremony is open to everyone.

Starter Pack and Participation Conditions

Each registered participant of the Tashkent International Marathon will receive an official starter pack, which includes:

— a race bib number;
— an electronic timing chip for accurate result recording;
— the official marathon T-shirt;
— a finisher’s medal (for everyone who completes the distance);
— water and refreshments on the course and at the finish;
— access to event services (bag storage, medical support, recovery area);
— an electronic participant certificate and official result.

The participation fee is 300,000 (three hundred thousand) UZS per participant.

Special conditions are available for corporate teams and company entries. Participation in the marathon is open to both professional athletes and amateurs, making the event truly mass and unifying.

Prize Money

Marathon (42.2 km):
— 1st place — 65 million UZS
— 2nd place — 40 million UZS
— 3rd place — 25 million UZS

Half Marathon (21.1 km):
— 1st place — 15 million UZS
— 2nd place — 12 million UZS
— 3rd place — 10 million UZS

10 km:
— 1st place — 8 million UZS
— 2nd place — 6 million UZS
— 3rd place — 4 million UZS

5 km:
— 1st place — 3 million UZS
— 2nd place — 2 million UZS
— 3rd place — 1 million UZS

Course Records

Marathon (42.2 km):
— Men: Vladislav Primov (Belarus) — 2:18:39
— Women: Ekaterina Tunguskova (Uzbekistan) — 2:40:58

Half Marathon (21.1 km):
— Men: Rinas Akhmadeev (Russia) — 1:03:22 (record)
— Women: Maria Korobitskaya (Kazakhstan) — 1:12:53

10 km:
— Men: Hasan Mirsoatov (Uzbekistan) — 33:32
— Women: Azizakhon Mirzakbarova (Uzbekistan) — 38:49

About the Marathon in Brief

The Tashkent International Marathon is an international mass running event held in Tashkent, with an AIMS-certified course and World Athletics Label status since 2022. The project brings together sport, urban development, and modern ideology, shaping the image of Uzbekistan as a country oriented toward the future, innovation, and sustainable development.

On 20 November of the current year, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan adopted Resolution No. PQ-350 entitled “On the Establishment and Organization of the Activities of the Samarkand Campus of the International Tourism Academy under the Auspices of the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism)”.

In accordance with the Resolution, the following key performance objectives have been defined for the activities of the Samarkand Campus of the International Tourism Academy (hereinafter referred to as the Academy), established under the auspices of the World Tourism Organization of the United Nations, including:

• establishing cooperation with one of the world’s top-10 ranked educational institutions and launching the training of highly qualified specialists;

• organizing professional development courses of up to one month and retraining programs of up to eight months.

The Academy shall operate within the structure of the “Silk Road” International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage. Educational activities at the Academy shall be carried out in accordance with the education formats applicable in the Republic of Uzbekistan and shall be conducted in Uzbek, Russian, and English.

Starting from 1 December 2025:

• specialists of tourism sector entities shall undergo retraining and professional development on a contractual basis;

• annually, 100 talented specialists from member states of the World Tourism Organization shall be awarded special grants to pursue retraining and professional development programs at the Academy.

Starting April 1, 2026, a value-added tax refund (Tax Free) system for foreign citizens has been launched at all international airports in Uzbekistan.

The new system allows tourists to receive VAT refunds on goods purchased within the country. Refunds can be issued either in cash or transferred to a bank card. If a cashless method is chosen, the funds are credited within up to 3 business days after the goods are exported.

The minimum purchase amount eligible for a refund is 300,000 UZS (including VAT). Foreign citizens are refunded 85% of the VAT amount, while the remaining 15% is allocated to cover the services of the Tax Free system operator.

The previously limited list of goods eligible for Tax Free (with the exception of food products) has been abolished.

It is expected that the introduction of Tax Free will increase the country’s attractiveness for foreign tourists, contribute to the growth of retail trade, and support further development of the tourism sector.

In the future, the system is planned to be expanded in stages — in addition to airports, it will be introduced at railway stations and border customs checkpoints, as well as extended to a wider range of retail outlets, including the broader retail sector.

Special attention is being paid to digitalization: to simplify refund procedures, active use of modern information technologies and mobile solutions is planned.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/17nMg1wYgHffU-lzB_rVNniVP1oKq1hE2?usp=sharing

Dunyo IA

In Uzbekistan, the formation and improvement of the legal culture of the population have become priorities of state policy. Strengthening the legal culture plays a key role in ensuring the rule of law, respecting the rights and freedoms of citizens, as well as achieving the economic and social progress of the country.

The primary sources of legal regulation of issues of improving the legal culture of the broad masses of the country's population are the laws of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On the dissemination of legal information and ensuring access to it” and “On the provision of legal assistance at the expense of the state”. In accordance with the first of these regulatory acts, to increase the legal literacy of citizens of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the concepts of legal information and access to legal information are defined for the first time at the legislative level. Consequently, from now on, following the provisions of article 3 of the law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On the dissemination of legal information and ensuring access to it”, legal information should be understood as the texts of regulatory legal acts, official interpretations to them, explanations on the procedure for applying regulatory legal acts, decisions of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Uzbekistan, decisions of the Plenum of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Uzbekistan on the application of legislation, as well as materials summarizing judicial practice, at the same time, access to legal information should be understood as the opportunity to freely obtain legal information and an ability to use it.

Furthermore, it is necessary to emphasize that following and thanks to the adoption of the law of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated February 27, “On the provision of legal assistance at the expense of the state”, low-income citizens of the country now have got a unique right to receive legal assistance at the expense of the state.

In turn, the adoption of the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On radical improvement of the system for increasing legal awareness and legal culture in society” made it possible to determine the main tasks of increasing legal awareness and legal culture in society. It is important to specifically point out that strategic ideas in the form of establishing a spirit of respect for laws in society - the key to building a democratic rule of law state and maintaining a balance of personal and public interests were identified as a priority in the field of improving the legal culture in society.

A particularly significant and large legal basis for accelerating work in this direction also became the decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated May 4, 2018 “On measures to radically increase the role of civil society institutions in the process of democratic renewal of the country” and the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated 14 November 2018 “On measures to establish a badge “for contribution to the development of civil society.” In particular, if the first act of the head of state established an incentive badge “for contribution to the development of civil society”, which is awarded on the eve of the Constitution Day of the Republic of Uzbekistan, then the second legal act established that the badge “For contribution to the development of civil society” is awarded to representatives of non-governmental non-profit organizations and other civil society institutions, as well as proactive citizens who take an active part in reforms carried out in all spheres of society and have made a worthy contribution to the formation and development of a free civil society in the country, the protection of human rights and legitimate interests, and democratic values, increasing the political culture and legal consciousness of the population and strengthening social partnership relations among non-governmental non-profit organizations.

The latest novelty in the legislative strengthening of increasing legal awareness and legal culture of the population is the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated May 24 of this year “On further increasing the responsibility and forming a compact management system of justice bodies and institutions within the framework of administrative reforms”, which once more defines further work to increase legal awareness and legal culture. For example, this decree establishes that to increase the legal awareness and legal culture of the population, the “Lawyer of Makhalla” project is being implemented in citizens’ self-government bodies, within the framework of which short-term free training courses will be organized aimed at continuously improving the legal knowledge and skills of chairmen of citizens’ self-government bodies, and in schools, starting from the 2024/2025 academic year, the subject Olympiad “Expert in Law” will be held, while each Wednesday of the week is designated as “Day of Legal Propaganda”.

Undoubtedly, all political and legal reforms aimed at increasing the legal culture of the population and to develop the country are meant to build a legal state and civil society in the Republic of Uzbekistan. In this regard, the implementation of the idea of “The future of the country lies with law-abiding youth who are intolerant of crime” contributes to the achieving of the goals and objectives of state policy in the field of involving the broad masses of citizens, government bodies and institutions into the process of increasing the legal literacy of the population.

Nasimbek Azizov – Head of the Department of the Law Enforcement Academy of the Republic of Uzbekistan;

Diyorbek Ibragimov - Senior Lecturer at the Law Enforcement Academy of the Republic of Uzbekistan;

Odiljon Nematillaev – Lecturer at the Law Enforcement Academy of

the Republic of Uzbekistan.

In recent years, Uzbekistan and Qatar have been deepening their cooperation in the field of tourism, transforming mutual interest into tangible joint projects. Tourism has become more than an economic sector — it serves as a bridge between cultures, offering the peoples of both countries an opportunity to discover each other’s rich history, spiritual traditions, and modern identity.

The foundation of this partnership lies in the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the two governments in 2010. This document marked the first step toward a structured dialogue, and the following years have shown both sides’ readiness to enrich their cooperation with concrete initiatives.

Step by step, collaboration in the tourism field has taken on a more sustainable character, reaching a qualitatively new level in 2025. One of the key decisions was the introduction of a visa-free regime for Qatari citizens for stays of up to thirty days. This milestone has expanded tourism exchange and clearly demonstrated Uzbekistan’s openness to visitors from the Persian Gulf.

Active cooperation in the field of tourism is maintained at a high level. In recent years, Uzbekistan has repeatedly showcased its potential at international venues in Doha, taking part in exhibitions, forums, and presentations. The country’s national stands attract great interest from tourism professionals and the general public alike. They highlight everything Uzbekistan is renowned for — its ancient cities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, traditional crafts, cuisine, and the warm hospitality of its Eastern culture.

In 2025, a highlight of the bilateral calendar was the Uzbekistan–Qatar International Tourism Forum, held in Doha during the summer. The forum became an important platform for exchanging experience, building partnerships, and discussing joint projects in the tourism sector.

Representatives of tourism companies, airlines, and the hospitality industry from both countries discussed opportunities to promote travel routes, organize familiarization tours, and develop infrastructure. As a result, agreements were reached on several joint initiatives aimed at increasing tourist flows and enhancing Uzbekistan’s visibility in the Qatari market.

Alongside business cooperation, image-building and cultural projects are also thriving. At the initiative of the Tourism Committee and the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Qatar, a large-scale media campaign was launched in Doha in 2025: videos about Uzbekistan were displayed on giant LED screens along the city’s main streets.

Alongside business cooperation, image-building and cultural projects are also thriving. At the initiative of the Tourism Committee and the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Qatar, a large-scale media campaign was launched in Doha in 2025: videos about Uzbekistan were displayed on giant LED screens along the city’s main streets.

The footage featured the majestic domes of Samarkand and Bukhara, mountain landscapes, vibrant bazaars, and modern Tashkent. This visual campaign became part of a broader strategy to promote the country’s image and strengthen cultural ties between the two nations.

Uzbekistan’s participation in major international exhibitions in Qatar continues to attract considerable attention. The national stands traditionally highlight tourism routes as well as initiatives in pilgrimage, gastronomic, and eco-tourism, alongside cultural heritage projects. Visitors note the country’s unique combination of authenticity and modernity, which makes Uzbekistan stand out as a dynamic destination, one that can both surprise and inspire.

The Qatari audience increasingly views Uzbekistan as a new and appealing destination for travelers. This growing interest is reinforced by ongoing efforts to promote the country through Arab media and digital platforms.

Cultural exchange also plays a vital role. The organization of thematic exhibitions, gastronomic festivals, and Uzbek Culture Weeks in Doha provides a strong foundation for humanitarian cooperation. These initiatives showcase Uzbekistan’s tourism potential and foster mutual understanding and respect between the peoples of both nations.

A new model of cooperation is gradually emerging, in which tourism serves not merely as an economic driver but as a key instrument of people-to-people diplomacy. Through travel, joint projects, and exchanges of expertise, Uzbekistan and Qatar continue to discover each other’s traditions, contemporary life, and future potential.

The growing tourism partnership between the two countries reflects a broader trend of Uzbekistan strengthening its ties with the countries of the Persian Gulf. Shared values of hospitality, a deep respect for cultural heritage, and a commitment to building bridges between Central Asia and the Arab world provide a solid foundation for long-term collaboration.

Uzbekistan and Qatar are not just developing tourism — they are creating a space of trust, exchange, and inspiration. This dialogue of cultures, which began with diplomatic agreements, is evolving into a living story of connection between people, traditions, and ideas, uniting the two nations and opening new horizons for future cooperation.

By the end of 2025, Uzbekistan is demonstrating strong and dynamic growth in its tourism sector. Nearly 12 million foreign tourists visited the country, marking a 16% increase compared to the previous year.

Tourism service exports exceeded USD 4.8 billion, confirming the growing international interest in Uzbekistan and strengthening its position as one of the most promising tourist destinations in the region.

These results have been achieved through consistent reforms in the tourism sector aimed at improving infrastructure, enhancing transport accessibility, digitalizing services, and creating favorable conditions for travelers. The country is actively implementing projects focused on developing tourism clusters, improving service quality, and expanding international cooperation.

The Republic has introduced simplified entry procedures for foreign citizens. Currently, visa-free entry is granted to citizens of 94 countries, an electronic visa system is available for 52 countries, and a five-day visa-free transit regime applies to 45 countries.

Against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical instability in certain regions of the world, including mass protests and demonstrations in some countries, the importance of safety and comfort for tourists is becoming increasingly significant.

In this context, Uzbekistan maintains its status as a stable, safe, and hospitable country, open to all visitors regardless of nationality or religion. Traditions of respect, tolerance, and genuine hospitality are an integral part of Uzbek culture.

International rankings confirm the high level of safety in Uzbekistan. In recent years, the country has consistently ranked among the leading nations in global safety indices. In particular, according to the “International SOS Risk Map,” Uzbekistan is classified as a “Low Risk” destination, placing it alongside several European countries in terms of overall safety.

According to the “Numbeo Safety Index,” Uzbekistan ranks 25th out of 148 countries worldwide, demonstrating a consistently low level of crime. Furthermore, in the “Solo Female Travel Safety Index” and the “Safety Perceptions Index,” Uzbekistan ranks 1st globally, achieving one of the highest safety scores for solo female travelers. Additionally, in the “Gallup Global Law and Order Index,” the country has also been among the global leaders in terms of public safety and trust in law enforcement. Taken together, these assessments contribute to a strong international image of Uzbekistan as a safe, stable, and comfortable destination for tourists.

Today, Uzbekistan offers visitors not only the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Great Silk Road but also modern infrastructure, comfortable conditions, and an atmosphere of openness.

Uzbekistan is becoming an increasingly sought-after destination for international travel. From January to July 2026, the country welcomed around 7.75 million foreign tourists — up 22.6 percent year-on-year. Over the same period, tourism service exports reached roughly $3.9 billion. Against this backdrop, the Republic of Korea remains one of the leading long-haul markets for Uzbekistan's tourism industry.

Interest among Korean travelers in Uzbekistan continues to grow. In January–July 2026, Korea ranked third among long-haul markets by number of tourists visiting Uzbekistan, behind only China and Turkey. During this period, 26,500 tourists arrived from the Republic of Korea. Current figures already exceed pre-pandemic levels: Uzbekistan was visited by 35,500 Korean citizens in 2019, 41,300 in 2024, and 46,300 in 2025 — almost a third more than in 2019.

Behind this growth lie concrete changes. Korean travelers don't need to arrange a visa in advance: a 30-day visa-free regime has been in place for them since February 2018. Uzbekistan and the Republic of Korea are connected by direct flights. Together, visa-free travel and direct air links make trips between the two countries considerably more accessible and convenient.

But accessibility is only one side of the equation. To encourage more travelers to choose Uzbekistan, the country needs a real presence on the Korean tourism market itself — working with tour operators, clear itineraries and offers, destination promotion, and service that meets guests' expectations.

That's why direct ties between the tourism businesses of the two countries are becoming increasingly important. In October 2024, the Uzbek-Korean Tourism Forum in Seoul brought together more than 100 industry representatives. Uzbekistan presented its cultural heritage and tourism potential, while Uzbek tour operators and airlines showcased routes and offers for the Korean market. B2B meetings were a central part of the program, allowing companies from both countries to discuss trip organization to Uzbekistan directly.

This work is set to continue through closer engagement with the Korea Association of Travel Agents (KATA). Initiatives under consideration include joint events involving the tourism business community and promotion of Uzbekistan as a tourism destination in the Republic of Korea. In turn, Korean companies are expected to be drawn more actively into the Tashkent International Tourism Fair (TITF).

There's also a less visible but no less important part of the cooperation — service quality. To work with the Korean market, Uzbekistan needs specialists who speak the language and better understand guests' needs. Currently there aren't enough such guides, which is why expanding their training has been singled out as a separate area of future work.

Here, the Republic of Korea could become not just a source of tourists but a partner in developing the industry itself. Together with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), plans under discussion include bringing Korean experts into Uzbekistan's tourism education institutions, training and experience exchange, and organizing training programs for specialists in the Republic of Korea. It has also been proposed to open a Korean language and culture center at the International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage "Silk Road" in Samarkand.

This kind of professional exchange is already underway. In May of this year, representatives of Uzbekistan's Tourism Committee took part in the KOPIST High-Level Tourism Policy Forum organized by the Republic of Korea's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. And in June, an Uzbek project took first place at the KOPIST-2026 tourism project presentation.

The cooperation between the two countries also rests on a long-standing institutional foundation. An intergovernmental agreement on tourism has been in place since 2012. Now it's proposed to take the next step — developing a separate agreement between the relevant agencies of both countries, along with an action plan to increase tourism exchange.

Today the task goes beyond simply increasing the number of trips. It's about consistently linking the factors that directly shape a traveler's choice: convenient connections, accessibility, appealing tourism offers, and quality service — while also connecting tour operators, educational institutions, and relevant organizations in Uzbekistan and the Republic of Korea. It is precisely in these areas that new opportunities for tourism cooperation between the two countries are now emerging.