On October 9, 2026, Uzbekistan’s Tourism Committee and Air Arabia held talks to expand air connectivity and launch new routes to boost tourism, according to the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Existing cooperation involves Air Arabia flights to Tashkent and Namangan, with an emphasis on joint promotion of Uzbekistan’s tourism internationally.
Current Flight Operations and Planned Route Expansion
Air Arabia currently operates 13 weekly flights combining the Tashkent-Sharjah and Tashkent-Abu Dhabi routes. During their discussions, both parties considered introducing new direct flights to key Uzbek tourist cities including Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. They also examined increasing flight frequencies on the existing routes between Tashkent and
the UAE destinations Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.
Targeting Transit Tourists and Promotion Strategies
The Tourism Committee and Air Arabia identified opportunities to attract transit tourists originating from Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North Africa. Promotional efforts are planned to leverage Air Arabia’s digital channels alongside joint marketing campaigns. The cooperation also includes developing dedicated tourism packages to better reach international travelers.
Familiarization Trips with Influencers and Media
Plans call for organizing familiarization trips involving bloggers, influencers, tour operators, and media representatives to increase awareness of Uzbekistan’s destinations. Air Arabia committed to offering practical support, including covering airfare costs for influencers and bloggers participating in these trips.
European Market Focus and Onboard Tourism Promotion
Recent growth in tourist arrivals
from Europe has prompted plans to strengthen promotional activities within European markets. The partnership agreed to distribute informational materials about Uzbekistan’s tourism onboard Air Arabia flights servicing Europe and other target regions to encourage traveler interest.
Support for Umrah Plus and Tourism Infrastructure Developments
Air Arabia expressed readiness to support Uzbekistan’s Umrah Plus project, aiming to develop it as a distinct tourism product. Airline representatives noted recent improvements in Uzbekistan’s tourism infrastructure, such as new modern hotels and a wider range of accommodation, that enhance the country’s appeal to visitors.
Agreements and Participation in Upcoming Tourism Events
The meeting concluded with agreements focused on increasing tourist arrivals by expanding air connectivity and leveraging Air Arabia’s
international network. Air Arabia was invited to participate in the 31st Tashkent International Tourism Fair, “Tourism on the Silk Road,” scheduled for November 2026, as well as the Investment Forum and MICE Tourism Conference held concurrently.
