Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan held a working meeting with tour operators, representatives of ministries and agencies, and other stakeholders to discuss increasing the flow of tourists from Malaysia and Indonesia under the "Umrah Plus" program, aimed at developing pilgrimage tourism.

The meeting was organized as part of the government's efforts to attract more international tourists, particularly from Malaysia and Indonesia, in 2025-2026. Participants discussed the development of specialized travel programs and tour packages that would position Uzbekistan as a key destination for pilgrims.

Agreements were reached on launching new travel routes, including:

Kuala Lumpur – Samarkand – Jeddah – Kuala Lumpur

Jakarta – Samarkand – Jeddah – Jakarta

Kuala Lumpur – Bukhara – Jeddah – Kuala Lumpur

Jakarta – Bukhara – Jeddah – Jakarta

To ensure a comfortable experience for pilgrims, a comprehensive plan has been developed in cooperation with the local administrations of Samarkand and Bukhara regions, the Cultural Heritage Agency, Uzbekistan Airports JSC, the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan Railways JSC, and the Committee on Religious Affairs. The plan includes infrastructure improvements at airports, train stations, pilgrimage sites, cultural heritage locations, hotels, and dining establishments along the "Umrah Plus" routes.

The "Umrah Plus" program not only fosters the growth of pilgrimage tourism but also strengthens cultural and economic ties between Uzbekistan and Southeast Asian nations. Its implementation will promote Uzbekistan as an attractive destination for spiritual and cultural tourism.

In the coming years, Uzbekistan is expected to become a key hub for pilgrimage tourism in the region, further increasing tourist flows and enhancing the country's international reputation.