Kazakhstan, the largest landlocked country in the world, has been making strides in the travel and tourism industry in recent years. In the latest edition of the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index for 2024, Kazakhstan has been ranked 52nd out of 140 countries, a significant improvement from its previous ranking of 73rd in 2019.
The Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index assesses the factors that enable sustainable development of the travel and tourism sector, such as the country’s natural and cultural resources, infrastructure, and policy framework. Kazakhstan’s rise in the rankings can be attributed to several factors, including improvements in its infrastructure, visa policies, and overall business environment.
One of the key strengths of Kazakhstan’s tourism industry is its diverse natural beauty. From the snow-capped peaks of the Tien Shan mountains to the vast steppes of the Kazakh plains, the country offers a wide range of landscapes for visitors to explore. The country is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Turkistan and the petroglyphs of Tamgaly in the Almaty region.
In recent years, Kazakhstan has made significant investments in its tourism infrastructure, including the development of new hotels, resorts, and transportation hubs. The country has also implemented visa reforms to make it easier for tourists to visit, with most nationalities now able to enter the country visa-free for up to 30 days.
Additionally, Kazakhstan has been actively promoting its tourism industry on the international stage, participating in major travel and tourism fairs and launching marketing campaigns to attract more visitors. The country’s efforts have paid off, with a steady increase in tourist arrivals in recent years.
However, there are still challenges that Kazakhstan faces in its quest to become a top travel destination. The country’s tourism industry is still relatively underdeveloped compared to its neighbors in Central Asia, and there is a need for further investment in infrastructure and human resources. Additionally, there are concerns about the environmental impact of tourism on the country’s pristine natural areas.
Overall, Kazakhstan’s rise in the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index is a testament to the country’s potential as a travel destination. With its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and ongoing efforts to improve its tourism infrastructure, Kazakhstan is well-positioned to attract more visitors in the coming years. By continuing to invest in its tourism industry and promote its unique attractions, Kazakhstan has the opportunity to further improve its ranking and establish itself as a top destination for travelers from around the world.
