WORLD TOURISM DAY: THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY IN CITIZENS’ ASSESSMENTS

September 27 marks World Tourism Day, a day that recognizes everyone whose work contributes to the development of tourism, the preservation of cultural and historical heritage, and the promotion of Uzbekistan’s unique tourism potential.

In his congratulatory message to tourism professionals, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized the growing role of tourism in the national economy, job creation, and improving the well-being of the population. Today, the sector faces ambitious tasks, including the further development of tourism and transport infrastructure, digitalization, the introduction of artificial intelligence, improving service quality, and expanding new forms of tourism.

Understanding the needs, interests, and expectations of citizens is essential for the sustainable development of tourism. In this context, the Republican Center for the Study of Public Opinion “Ijtimoiy Fikr” conducted a sociological study on domestic tourism in Uzbekistan.

The survey shows that over the past three years, 42.6% of respondents traveled to other regions of Uzbekistan for leisure, tourism, or travel. Among those who had not made such trips, 28.4% said they would like to travel around the country, indicating further interest and potential for the development of domestic tourism.

Among the most visited destinations are the Samarkand region (42.4%), the Bukhara region (23.8%), and the city of Tashkent (23.7%). The main reasons for travelling are leisure and a change of scenery (48.3%) and visiting historical and cultural attractions (28.7%).

The study also identified the types of tourism that citizens consider most important for further development. Respondents most frequently mentioned family tourism — 36.1%, cultural and historical tourism — 31.3%, nature and ecotourism — 29.3%, health and wellness tourism — 28.5%, and pilgrimage tourism — 24.2%.

The findings suggest that the further development of domestic tourism requires not only investment in infrastructure and new travel routes, but also greater accessibility of travel, better public awareness of tourism opportunities across the regions, and closer attention to the needs of different social groups.

On the occasion of World Tourism Day, the Republican Center for the Study of Public Opinion “Ijtimoiy Fikr” warmly congratulates tourism professionals, tour operators, guides, representatives of the hotel industry, culture, transport, and service sectors.

We wish you continued professional success, inspiring new projects, and further achievements in promoting the rich tourism potential of Uzbekistan!