Representatives from Samarkand tourism department displayed a number of tourism development projects at the 25th Annual Gathering of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation on 17th October.
One of the biggest projects is the development of ‘Al-Bukhari City’. The original Al-Bukhari Memorial Complex is located in Khartang, 22 km from Samarkand city centre. The project is valued at $200mn and is expected to create 300 jobs whilst being able to accommodate 1,500 customers at any one time.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited in February 2021 and the mausoleum was closed to the public as the renovations began. Included in the project are multiple hotels, a supermarket, large shopping centre and ampitheatre building.
During a week of UNWTO tourism talks involving representatives from numerous countries, sustainability has become a prominent recurring theme. While the precise details of how the project aims to achieve sustainability remain somewhat unclear, it's worth noting that the Al-Bukhari City project includes the planting of 500 trees which may be of some environmental significance.
Jarryd Salem travel blogger from Nomadasaurus who worked with USAID to promote tourism in Uzbekistan said:
Having visited the historic city of Samarkand multiple times, its tourism potential is undeniable. The city truly stands out with its rich history and iconic landmarks. However, while the Al-Bukhari city project promises modern amenities, there's a noticeable gap in ecotourism initiatives. For Samarkand to truly thrive and appeal to the global traveler, there needs to be a harmonious blend of its ancient charm with sustainable tourism practices. Investing in eco-friendly attractions, accommodations and promoting sustainable tourism can ensure that Samarkand remains a cherished destination for generations to come.
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