The university will make a worthy contribution to attracting 6 million tourists to Samarkand
As part of a visit to Samarkand region, the Head of State chaired a meeting in Narpay district, during which key tasks for the region’s socio-economic development were outlined.
Special attention was given to initiatives in the field of tourism, which not only revitalize the economy but also shape a new image of the country on the international stage. In particular, the fact that the Head of State arrived from Samarkand to Narpay district on the new high-speed “Hyundai Rotem” train clearly demonstrates the rapid development of modern tourism infrastructure in the country.
The President emphasized that current global challenges – disruptions in logistics chains, rising oil prices, and increasing transportation costs – directly affect food security. In a context where about 100 million tourists choose calm and safe countries to travel to, the cultural and historical potential of Uzbekistan, especially Samarkand, can open a new chapter in the global tourism industry.
New support mechanisms – subsidies for tour operators, a 50 percent VAT refund in the form of cashback, free tours for foreign bloggers, and coverage of advertising expenses on major online platforms – will become an important step toward improving the quality of tourism services and building an international tourism brand. These measures stimulate entrepreneurship in the tourism sector, attract foreign investment, and increase service exports.
The announcement of the Open Tourism Season in Uzbekistan from April to June, the provision of subsidies to airlines for each tourist, and the introduction of a 20 percent discount on airport services represent an innovative approach to developing seasonal tourism. This contributes to an increase in international flights and the stabilization of tourist flows.
Samarkand is planning to host major international events, including tours by performers, business forums, fashion festivals, and scientific conferences.
The “Silk Road” International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage is actively involved in implementing the tasks set by the President. In particular, cooperation with commercial banks and the “Step into the Future” center is being strengthened to facilitate graduate employment.
In cooperation with relevant organizations and business entities, new tourism destinations are being launched and service-sector projects are being implemented.
It is planned to strengthen outreach efforts to transform the new Imam Bukhari complex, built on the initiative of the Head of State, into a major pilgrimage tourism site. Assistance will be provided in ensuring that modern hotels and tourism facilities are staffed with qualified personnel. Currently, about 100 of our students are undergoing dual education and industrial internships in hotels and service facilities.
An analysis of the ongoing reforms shows that the combination of new opportunities and the field’s scientific potential makes it possible to transform Samarkand into a leading tourism center not only in Uzbekistan but throughout Central Asia. The task set by the President to attract up to 6 million tourists to Samarkand by the end of the current year serves as an indicator of progress in the country’s service sector, infrastructure, and human capital.
Mukhsinjon Holmuhamedov,
Rector of the “Silk Road” International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage
UzA
