Foreign tourists brought
Kazakhstan 450 billion tenge last year, a record result on taxes from tourism
activities. Overall, the domestic tourism industry hit historical highs across
key indicators. In 2023, over nine million people visited the country, doubling
the figures from 2022. Additionally, the number of domestic tourists in
Kazakhstan surpassed 9.5 million in 2023. Kazakh Minister of Tourism and Sports
Yermek Marzhikpayev reported on the development of the industry and the
implementation of major infrastructure projects at the Government’s meeting.
“33 projects worth 131 billion
tenge were completed last year. In 2023, several projects focused on
infrastructure development in the Warm Beach resort area in the Mangystau
region were completed. This year, the construction of three airport terminals
in the cities of Almaty, Shymkent, and Kyzylorda is slated for completion. This
will significantly boost passenger traffic and have a positive impact on the
accessibility of tourist destinations,” said Marzhikpayev.
He reminded that Kazakhstan
currently operates international flights to 29 countries on 108 routes, and
there is a visa-free regime for citizens of 82 countries. To simplify the
procedures for foreigners staying long-term in the country, it is planned to introduce
the Neo Nomad Visa. Its expected economic impact may reach three billion tenge
annually. The ministry also emphasized the importance of ensuring safety
measures for tourists in the coming summer season. Thus, a special SOS-button
will be available for travelers in the country. This domestic development will
operate in areas without internet coverage.