Bukhara, once the jewel of Eastern civilization and one of the largest cultural and trade centers of the Great Silk Road, attracts tourists from all over the world. Thanks to large-scale reforms in the tourism sector in recent years, the international prestige of the ancient city has grown, and Bukhara is recognized globally not only for its historical heritage but also for its modern tourist infrastructure.
To familiarize members of the media with the ongoing events, a press conference and press tour were organized in Bukhara on the topic 'Prospects of Tourism in Bukhara and the Establishment of the National Brand 'Poykent Bukhara'.' Representatives of republican and local media, journalists, and bloggers took part in the event.
The event began at the modern hotel 'Poykent Bukhara Old City', located in the city of Bukhara. Participants were able to get a detailed look at the high amenities created for visitors, as well as the possibilities of modern service and the style of national architecture presented in the hotel.
Following this press conference, Deputy Head of the Region, Botir Shahiryorov, delivered a report, providing detailed information on the current indicators of tourism development in Bukhara and future plans.
He emphasized that the consistent reforms carried out under the leadership of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev are strengthening Bukhara's position on the global tourism map. The figures of recent years serve as clear proof of this.
If 1.2 million tourists visited Bukhara in 2017, this number reached 7.5 million by 2025, which means an almost sixfold increase in visitor flow. Furthermore, the volume of tourism exports increased from 37.2 million to 736.9 million US dollars, nearly 20 times, demonstrating that tourism has become an important driver not only of cultural but also of economic progress.
The opportunities created to support entrepreneurship in this sector contribute to the active development of the hotel business. If there were only 114 accommodation facilities in the region in 2017, today their number has reached 730, allowing for the capacity to accommodate over 18 thousand guests simultaneously. On average, 70 new hotels and accommodation facilities are commissioned annually, which is another vivid testament to the growth rate of the industry.
Particular attention was paid to the 'Poykent Bukhara' hotel chain, formed at the initiative of local entrepreneurs, which has been elevated to the level of a national tourism brand. The fifth hotel in this chain recently opened. This collection embodies the traditions of national architecture and modern hospitality standards, helping to leave unforgettable impressions on tourists.
Construction of another modern five-star hotel in the city of Bukhara is also underway, which is planned to be commissioned next year.
As noted at the press conference, the President highly values national brands as an important factor determining the international image, investment attractiveness, and economic competitiveness of the country. In this light, the registration of the 'Poykent Bukhara' brand in the state register is not just an event concerning the hotel chain, but one of historical significance for the entire tourism industry of Uzbekistan.
This brand is being formed as a modern symbol reflecting the harmony of national architecture, high level of service, and Uzbek hospitality. It is expected that in the near future it will become one of the most prestigious national brands of Uzbekistan in the global tourism market.
Moreover, thanks to this hotel chain, more than 200 young people have obtained permanent jobs and gained the opportunity to acquire advanced foreign experience in hotel management and international service standards.
Such large projects implemented in Bukhara serve to enhance the tourism potential of the ancient city, promote national brands worldwide, and increase Uzbekistan's competitiveness in the international tourism market. 'Poykent Bukhara' is not just a hotel; it undeniably holds a worthy place in history as a new symbol of openness, development, and Uzbek hospitality of New Uzbekistan.
Participants of the event received clear answers to their questions from industry specialists.
The 'Qovun Sayli' Festival is a celebration that harmoniously combines millennia-old agricultural traditions, national values, and modern tourism directions.
In recent years, the tourism potential of the Khorezm region has significantly improved, leading to a constant increase in the number of visitors. For example, in 2026, over twelve million tourists visited the city of Khiva, more than two and a half million of whom were foreign guests.
The reason for the growth in tourist flow is the organization of annual major events aimed at attracting a larger number of visitors and ensuring them an interesting time. Last year, more than ten international festivals and over twenty local mass events were organized in the region.
Among the international events are such as the 'International Bachshi Art', 'Qovun Sayli', 'Splendor of Khorezm Knowledge', 'Lazgi', the international 'Strongman' game, the Khorezm Forum of International Investments, and the international gastronomic festival 'National Dishes of Khorezm Khans'.
Every August, the traditional international festival 'Qovun Sayli' takes place in the ancient and always picturesque city of Khiva. This festival is held to draw attention from both local and foreign tourists to the development of Khorezm horticulture, as well as to increase tourist flow.
Farmers, entrepreneurs, and gardeners from not only all districts of Khorezm but also from other regions of the republic actively participate in the festival, presenting harvests of watermelons, melons, products from polis, fruits, and vegetables grown in the fields and gardens of Khorezm.
Last year, nearly two million local and foreign guests arrived in the region during the festival. This had a positive impact on the development of the hospitality, restaurant, and service sectors. Furthermore, new opportunities for cooperation and sales markets were created for local farmers.
During the three days of the festival, special pavilions are allocated in the city of Khiva for participants, where exhibitions of polis cultures and finished products grown by local farmers are held. Each pavilion features unique cultural programs, theatrical performances, demonstrations of national clothing, concerts by folklore ensembles, and exhibitions of national dishes.
There was also a competition for the design and exhibition of these pavilions. Following the 'Qovun Sayli' 2025 festival, awards were presented to the 'Tracker' passenger car (highest award), 'Onix' (first place), and 'Damas' (second place), as well as motorcycles (third place).
Historical sources indicate that in ancient times, over 400 varieties of watermelons were grown in Khorezm, while currently, over 150 varieties are cultivated. New watermelon varieties, scientific developments, experience, and products from watermelons are demonstrated at every festival. The previous festival featured 125 types of watermelons and over 150 types of products from them; an even greater result is expected this year.
According to festival participants, 'Qovun Sayli' is the most massive, sweetest, most aromatic, and most rich gastronomic holiday among all international events. This is because local and foreign tourists enjoy sweet watermelons, sweets made from them, refreshing drinks, and national dishes.
During the festival, guests have the opportunity to taste watermelons, communicate with producers, and learn more about the region's agriculture, as well as take part in entertainment programs.
This year, the international festival 'Qovun Sayli' will take place on August 7, 8, and 9 in the city of Khiva. Active preparatory work for this event is currently underway.
The traditional festival program, combining national values, gastronomic culture, and art, includes an exhibition of famous and fragrant Khorezm watermelons, a presentation of national dishes, samples of folk crafts, theatrical productions, national songs and dances, as well as fun events.
Large shows and gala concerts featuring the most famous artists from both our country and foreign countries are planned for the opening and closing ceremonies of the festival.
'Qovun Sayli' is not just an agricultural product fair. It is a cultural holiday that reflects the customs of our people, national dishes, folklore art, and the spirit of hospitality.
In anticipation of the celebration of the 35th anniversary of independence, a joyful event took place in the village of Sirdaryo, in the Pakhtakor quarter. A new state preschool educational institution designed for 150 children was solemnly commissioned there.
This project was implemented as part of the execution of the Decree of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated March 3, 2025, 'On measures for the active development of the socio-production infrastructure of the Syrdarya region.' 4 billion 600 million soums were allocated for the construction and equipping of the new kindergarten. As a result, a modern and spacious educational environment was created that meets all the necessary conditions for the comprehensive development of children.
The head of the Syrdarya district, Azizbek Turdimurodov, participated in the opening ceremony. He emphasized that the state policy on developing the system of preschool education and increasing the intellectual and spiritual potential of children is being consistently implemented in the country. Furthermore, he noted that the new kindergarten will ensure quality upbringing for children and create significant convenience for parents.
The institution is equipped with large and bright groups designed taking into account the age and interests of the children. It also has halls for music and physical culture, a medical office, a dining hall, and many rooms equipped with modern educational equipment. Modern playgrounds and green areas have been established in the district to ensure meaningful leisure and physical development for children.
According to worker Bakhtiyor Kenjaev, the commissioning of the new institution in anticipation of Independence Day was a great gift for the residents of the quarter. He expressed great joy at the opportunity to see the conditions created for their children and grandchildren. Bakhtiyor Kenjaev added that the modern kindergarten has all the possibilities for receiving a quality education and achieving healthy, full development. He particularly noted that the educators are highly qualified specialists who approach child-rearing responsibly, and he expressed gratitude to the head of state for such care and attention.
The commissioning of the new kindergarten is an important step towards expanding coverage of preschool education in the quarter, creating a modern educational environment for children, and providing additional convenience for parents.
Another joyful event took place for the residents of the Mirzaobod district on the eve of the 35th anniversary of independence. Preschool Educational Institution No. 17, located in the village of Dekhkonobod, has been completely renovated and solemnly commissioned.
This project was implemented as part of fulfilling the President's decree of March 3, 2025, 'On measures for the active development of the social and production infrastructure of Syrdarya region,' and serves as a worthy gift to the population ahead of the Independence holiday.
Four billion 600 million sums were allocated for the implementation of this project. During the renovation work, both the exterior and interior parts of the institution were completely updated. Group and classroom rooms, dormitories, dining hall, sanitary facilities, engineering and communication networks were modernized, and the territory was equipped in accordance with modern requirements. The institution was also provided with modern furniture, educational and upbringing aids, and necessary equipment.
The official opening ceremony was attended by the head of the Mirzaobod district, Abdurakhim Umarov, industry employees, public figures, parents, and village activists. At the event, it was emphasized that developing the preschool education system, strengthening its material and technical base, and creating a favorable environment for every child are among the stable directions of state policy in the country.
All conditions for the harmonious and full development of pupils have been created in the renovated institution. Bright and spacious group rooms, clean dormitories, a modern dining hall, rooms for music and physical education classes, safe playgrounds, and an improved territory contribute to the quality education and upbringing of young children.
Currently, the coverage of preschool education in the Mirzaobod district exceeds 86.9 percent. This indicator is a vivid testament to the effectiveness of reforms being carried out in this area, as well as efforts to modernize educational institutions and create new infrastructure.
