The inauguration ceremony, held at the Keruen Saray tourist complex, saw the participation of Darkhan Satybaldy, the Akim of the Turkistan region. Satybaldy extended warm greetings to the people of Turkistan and visitors on the occasion of Nauryz, a significant moment for the region.
“In line with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s vision of elevating tourism as a key driver of economic growth, we are committed to making tourism a primary focus of Turkistan’s development. With high tourism potential, our region welcomed 15,000 foreign tourists last year, with nearly a million one-day visitors. We are enhancing international flight connectivity at Turkistan International Airport and introducing new air routes from various global cities this year. I extend heartfelt congratulations to all on the opening of the tourist season and invite everyone to explore the wonders of Turkistan,” said Darkhan Satybaldy, inviting travelers to visit the Turkistan region.
Turkistan International Airport currently operates 22 domestic flights and nine weekly flights to three international destinations. In a bid to attract more foreign tourists, Wizz Air launched the Abu Dhabi-Turkistan route earlier this year. Additionally, a regular flight on the Samarkand-Turkistan route is set to commence from March 22, coinciding with the celebration of Nauryz.
The designation of Turkistan as the Turkic world capital for 2024 underscores its prominent status among Turkic nations. In 2023, Turkistan hosted a meeting of tourism ministers from Turkic states, resulting in its recognition as the tourist capital for the following year. The prestigious status was ceremoniously conferred upon the city in Shamakhi, Azerbaijan, last December.
Throughout the year, a myriad of cultural events is scheduled, including 25 international, 23 national, and 56 regional events, totaling over 100. This esteemed status not only promotes tourism development but also facilitates cultural exchange, entrepreneurship, and economic growth.
To mark the commencement of the tourist season, Turkistan organized a series of events, including sports competitions, entertainment activities, craft fairs, fashion shows, and cultural performances. The festivities culminated in a dazzling fireworks display in the Fire Show format.
Highlighting the adventurous spirit, the Silk Road Fest motor rally commenced with 12 SUVs embarking on an epic journey. Attended by key figures from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan’s Automoto Tourism Associations, the rally promises exhilarating experiences as it traverses through Turkistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan.
