Published on
October 23, 2025
Uzbekistan is strengthening its partnership with the European Union as tourism emerges as a central force driving the nation’s economic growth, cultural exchange, and regional cooperation. This collaboration has transformed tourism into more than just a leisure sector — it has become a strategic bridge connecting Central Asia with Europe. Through initiatives like the “One Tour – The Whole Region” program, Uzbekistan aims to simplify travel across Central Asia, modernize infrastructure, and promote sustainable tourism practices aligned with EU standards. With rising tourist arrivals, expanding digital innovation, and global media visibility, Uzbekistan is positioning itself as a key tourism gateway between East and West, fostering shared prosperity and stronger cultural ties.
Tourism has rapidly become one of Uzbekistan’s most strategic sectors, transforming the nation’s image and economy. Over the past few years, the country has placed tourism at the heart of its foreign economic policy — and a central part of that vision lies in forging stronger ties with the European Union (EU). This growing partnership is shaping Uzbekistan into a modern, connected, and sustainable tourism destination that bridges Europe and Central Asia.
A Strategic Partnership Anchored in Tourism
Uzbekistan’s collaboration with the European Union extends far beyond simple tourism promotion. It reflects a long-term plan to link the nation’s economic growth, infrastructure development, and cultural diplomacy through tourism. The first “Central Asia–European Union” summit, held in Samarkand in April 2025, was a milestone moment. During the summit, both sides adopted a declaration on strategic partnership, emphasising the critical role of tourism in enhancing cooperation and regional integration.
At the event, Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev proposed the ambitious “One Tour – The Whole Region” initiative — an idea designed to connect Central Asian countries into a single travel circuit that meets EU standards. This plan aims to simplify visa procedures, harmonise travel regulations, and improve tourism infrastructure. By uniting the region’s cultural and natural treasures, the initiative seeks to make Central Asia an easier and more attractive destination for European travellers.
Building Cultural Bridges Through Art and Exchange
Culture has become a powerful tool in strengthening the Uzbekistan–EU partnership. One of the most symbolic examples is the ballet Lazgi, a grand production that brought together artists from Uzbekistan and Europe to celebrate shared values and creativity. The performance stood as a cultural dialogue — highlighting Uzbekistan’s unique heritage while fostering cross-cultural understanding.
In addition to artistic collaboration, Uzbekistan’s participation in EU-led programs such as Horizon Europe is enhancing its scientific, educational, and innovation capacities. These exchanges have a direct impact on tourism, as they support the development of human capital and raise the overall quality of tourism services offered across the country.
Economic Growth Driven by Tourism
Tourism is not only a soft-power tool — it’s also a major economic force. In 2025, Uzbekistan is projected to welcome over 11 million foreign visitors, a figure that underscores its growing appeal as a travel destination. Industry revenues are expected to reach $4 billion, marking a record high for the nation.
To sustain this growth, the government is heavily investing in modernising infrastructure and embracing digital innovation. One example is the CAREN (Central Asian Research and Education Network) program, which connects universities across Central Asia with their European counterparts through high-speed internet networks. This initiative facilitates research collaboration and knowledge exchange — essential components for training a new generation of professionals in the tourism and hospitality industry.
Promoting Uzbekistan’s Image on the Global Stage
Uzbekistan’s visibility in the global travel market has grown tremendously thanks to strategic promotion campaigns across Europe. International media outlets such as Euronews, BBC, CNN, and National Geographic have featured the country’s ancient cities, architectural landmarks, and evolving modern identity. These features have helped reshape perceptions and spark interest among European travellers seeking new and authentic destinations.
The country has also taken its message directly to audiences through roadshows and tourism presentations held in major European capitals, including Berlin, Paris, Madrid, Rome, Zagreb, and Warsaw. These events showcased Uzbekistan’s cultural richness, investment opportunities, and tourism infrastructure, while facilitating partnerships between Uzbek tour operators, European travel agencies, and potential investors.
Sustainability and Green Tourism at the Core
Sustainable tourism is now a defining feature of Uzbekistan’s strategy. The government, in collaboration with European partners, is implementing multiple projects aimed at protecting the country’s natural landscapes and historical sites. Efforts are underway to introduce eco-friendly practices, such as waste reduction programs, renewable energy systems in tourist zones, and the development of green transport networks.
Historic cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are now not only UNESCO-listed sites but also models for balancing heritage preservation with tourism development. These initiatives align with the EU’s broader sustainability goals and appeal to a new generation of eco-conscious travellers.
A Gateway to Central Asia
Uzbekistan’s tourism diplomacy is also strengthening its role as a gateway to the wider Central Asian region. By coordinating visa policies, harmonising travel standards, and improving regional connectivity, the country is helping to create an integrated tourism corridor. This transformation is expected to increase the flow of tourists from Europe, boost regional cooperation, and promote peace and understanding through shared travel experiences.
The “One Tour – The Whole Region” initiative captures this vision perfectly: a seamless travel experience where visitors can explore ancient Silk Road cities across multiple countries with one simplified travel process. It positions Uzbekistan not only as a destination but as a regional tourism hub connecting Asia and Europe.
Media Exposure and Global Recognition
Global exposure has played a significant role in shaping Uzbekistan’s modern tourism identity. Through carefully crafted media partnerships, Uzbekistan has projected itself as both an ancient cradle of civilisation and a fast-modernising nation. The blend of old and new — from the majesty of Registan Square to the sleek hotels and modern airports — showcases a destination ready to welcome international visitors with world-class experiences.
The Road Ahead: Turning Vision into Reality
The partnership between Uzbekistan and the European Union is more than a diplomatic alignment — it’s a blueprint for sustainable growth, mutual understanding, and long-term collaboration. Tourism, in this context, serves as both an economic driver and a bridge for people-to-people connection. With record visitor numbers, expanding infrastructure, and a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability, Uzbekistan is positioning itself as one of the most promising tourism destinations in Eurasia.
Uzbekistan is deepening its partnership with the European Union because tourism has become a powerful catalyst for its economic growth and cultural exchange. By modernising infrastructure, promoting regional initiatives, and enhancing global cooperation, the country is turning tourism into a key pillar of national progress and international connectivity.
As these initiatives mature, Uzbekistan’s tourism sector will continue to evolve into a symbol of progress, partnership, and cultural pride. The nation’s growing relationship with Europe not only elevates its profile globally but also sets a new benchmark for how countries can use tourism as a pathway to prosperity, dialogue, and shared growth.
Tags: european union, Uzbekistan
