The number of domestic tourists
in Kazakhstan has shown a significant surge, exceeding 5.5 million people in
the first nine months of this year. This marks an almost 12 percent increase
compared to the same period in 2022. Also, the influx of foreign travelers witnessed
a one-third growth and reached 835,000 people. The achievements in the tourism
industry for the year were recently highlighted in Astana, where contributors
to its growth were duly recognized. According to Kazakh Minister of Tourism and
Sports Yermek Marzhikpayev, the ministry has conducted fruitful work in restoring
flights to 80 destinations over the year. Also, visa-free regimes have been
reinstated for 74 countries. This list is slated to be expanded to 100 states.
Alongside reviewing the accomplishments of the outgoing year, the minister also
outlined plans for the upcoming 2024.
“We prioritize the improvement of
the visa and migration regime. Efforts are underway to expand international air
traffic and develop the country’s tourism brand. The government is considering the
possibility of extending the funding period for tourist projects, specifically
providing preferential lending options to span from seven to 10 years. Besides,
the list of priority territories has been expanded to the TOP-20. To date, the
most promising growth points have been identified in each region,” Marzhikpayev
said.