Chinese Tourism to Uzbekistan Surges 78% in Early 2026

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Chinese arrivals to Uzbekistan have jumped 78 percent in the first five months of 2026, with visa-free access tripling the flow since its introduction.

Uzbekistan received 178,121 Chinese nationals between January and May 2026, according to official figures — a 78 percent increase against the same period in 2024. Analysts attribute a significant share of the surge to the introduction of a visa-free regime, which has since driven a 3.5-fold increase in Chinese visitor numbers overall.

Industry observers point to a combination of factors behind Uzbekistan's rising profile among Chinese travelers: perceived safety, competitive pricing, and a densely layered historical and cultural heritage. For many visitors, the country has emerged as a compelling alternative to more distant and expensive destinations.

The Silk Road Pull

The ancient cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva remain the primary draw. Their historical ties to the Great Silk Road — centuries of trade and cultural exchange linking Central Asia directly to China — resonate strongly with Chinese tourists, for whom these sites carry both historical familiarity and personal heritage significance.

Tashkent is also drawing increased attention, offering a blend of contemporary urban infrastructure and historical landmarks. The Uzbekistan Center of Islamic Civilization, dedicated to the history, culture, and scientific legacy of the Islamic world, has emerged as a notable attraction for foreign visitors. The capital's modern parks, museums, entertainment venues, hotel infrastructure, and transport network — including its metro system and international airport — further reinforce its appeal as a gateway city.

Food as a Tourism Driver

National cuisine is proving a consistent element of the visitor experience. Traditional dishes including plov, lagman, and samsa have registered particular interest among Chinese tourists — a dynamic that aligns with broader culinary tourism trends across the region.

Specialists project continued growth in Chinese arrivals, citing ongoing infrastructure investment, the sustained visa-free framework, and enduring international interest in Uzbekistan's historical heritage across Tashkent and other regions.