Kazakhstan Sees Record Growth in Tourism with Bold Investments
Kazakhstan’s tourism sector is experiencing significant growth, with both domestic and international visitor numbers reaching new heights and investments in infrastructure booming. By the end of 2024, domestic tourism is expected to exceed ten million visitors, while international arrivals are projected to surpass 15 million, marking a nearly 60% increase compared to 2023, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.
Revenue from accommodation facilities saw a 27% growth in the first nine months of 2024, reaching 224 billion tenge (US$425.6 million). Government-approved funding for tourism infrastructure tripled this year, reflecting strong support for the sector. In addition, over 30 promotional events were held across major Chinese cities during Kazakhstan Tourism Year in China, significantly boosting international interest. The introduction of the Neo Nomad visa, aimed at attracting remote workers and digital nomads, is expected to further increase foreign visitor numbers.
Tourism’s role in Kazakhstan’s economy continues to expand, generating jobs, attracting investments, and contributing to tax revenues. Employment in the tourism industry is projected to reach 800,000 by 2029.
Key projects launched in 2024 to support this growth include the Tourism District of Astana, a 194 billion tenge (US$368.6 million) investment expected to create 2,000 jobs and generate ten billion tenge (US$19 million) annually in taxes. The Caspian Riviera Project, a 137.4 billion tenge (US$261 million) development in the Mangystau Region featuring a beach resort and golf hotel, also holds significant potential. Upgrades to hotel complexes in Almaty and Turkistan are further bolstering the sector.
However, the tourism industry faces challenges such as improving service quality, enhancing tourism education, advancing infrastructure, and promoting Kazakhstan more effectively on the global stage.
“We position Kazakhstan as a country open to the world. Currently, citizens from 83 countries can visit visa-free, with plans to expand this to 100 countries,” said Yerzhan Yerkinbayev, the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Sports.
To maximize the sector's economic impact, Kazakhstan must focus on strategic measures that prioritize service excellence, infrastructure development, and the promotion of its unique cultural and natural assets. With the right approach, tourism can become a cornerstone of the country's economic future.
Photo credit: Getty Images / Bilal Arslan
