Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Starting in 2025, Uzbekistan will focus on developing new types of tourism, as outlined in a government decree. The initiative aims to offer additional opportunities for both domestic and international tourists.

The country plans to promote various tourism sectors, including industrial, geological, scientific, military, and government-administrative tourism.

Each type of tourism will be overseen by specific ministries:

- Industrial tourism: Ministry of Economic Development and Ministry of Investments.

- Geological tourism: Ministry of Geology.

- Scientific tourism: Ministry of Higher Education.

- Military tourism: Ministry of Defense.

- Government-administrative tourism: Ministry of Justice.

Within two months, these ministries, in collaboration with the Tourism Committee, the Academy of Sciences, and the Chamber of Commerce, are expected to finalize tourism routes that outline destinations and visitation rules.

From 1 October 2025, Samarkand Airport will launch a test version of the interactive "Tourist Map" portal in multiple languages. The service will provide maps of popular tourist areas, along with information on airports, train and bus stations, and cultural and recreational sites. Users can create personalized travel routes based on their interests and the length of their trip, then download the itinerary via a QR code. Free Wi-Fi will be available near devices featuring the "Tourist Map."

Additionally, during the pilot phase of the "Tourist Map" project, tourists arriving at airports, train stations, and border crossings will be offered free tourist SIM cards valid for one month.

The Tourism Committee and Ministry of Digital Technologies have been tasked with integrating tourist sites and routes into Apple Maps and Google Maps.

The Central Bank is also set to negotiate with payment platforms like PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay to integrate their services with Uzbekistan’s banking system by the end of the year.

Furthermore, Uzbekistan plans to attract local and international car rental companies, such as Hertz, Avis, and Sixt, to establish services at airports and train stations across the country.