Breaking News: Almaty Region’s Ambition to Become a Tourism Powerhouse by 2028
Initiatives to Bolster Ecotourism and Infrastructure
The Almaty region is gearing up for a significant transformation in its tourism sector. As reported by the akimat of the region, a large-scale development program is underway aimed at making the region a premier ecotourism destination. The initiative focuses on developing key natural landmarks and launching new facilities.
Expansion Plans for OI-QARAGAI Resort by 2028
One of the key highlights of this project is the expansion of the popular mountain resort OI-QARAGAI. The region plans to scale up the resort’s territory from 105 to 1000 hectares by 2028. This expansion is expected to not only boost tourist capacity but also translate into approximately 1,200 new jobs. New hotels, recreation zones, and sports infrastructure are slated for construction.
National Parks’ Infrastructure Enhancements
The region’s national parks, including the Chapary Char canyon and the Kolsai lakes, are set for major upgrades. Modern information and service points will open in national parks like “Ile-Alatau” and “Sharyn” to provide tourists with essential route details and eco-safety guidelines. These improvements aim to enhance visitor experiences and safety.
Launch of New Sports and Technical Complexes
A new sports and technical complex called Avtodrom Sokol will be established, adding about 500 jobs. Additionally, the ASP Arena sports complex, designed for various outdoor activities, will open, creating another 300 jobs. These facilities aim to attract both locals and tourists with a variety of recreational opportunities.
Investments in Parks and Natural Routes
The region is investing heavily in its natural attractions. Over 170 million tenge have been allocated for enhancing tourist infrastructure in Kolsai Kolderi and Ile-Alatau parks. Projects include arranging new routes, establishing recreational areas, and implementing safety measures. The Alatau Amanata expedition project will create over 1000 kilometers of new tourist routes and campsites.
Konaev and Black Canyon Developments
Future plans include constructing a water park and hotel cluster in Konaev, rehabilitating the dam on Lake Yesik, and building a glass bridge in the Black Canyon. A funicular between the Kolsai lakes is also on the cards, in collaboration with a Swiss company, Bartholet.
Promoting Mountain Tourism
The Almaty mountain cluster will combine various attractions, such as hiking trails, auto-caravan routes, and water paths, all designed with environmental standards in mind to preserve natural balance. This integrated approach ensures a compelling experience for tourists while maintaining ecological sustainability.
Global Outreach and Investor Engagement
To attract international attention, the region is showcasing its potential at global tourist exhibitions, launching targeted ad campaigns in China and South Korea, and collaborating with foreign bloggers and media platforms like Travel+Leisure and Tripadvisor. These efforts aim to strengthen the region’s profile as a global tourist destination.
Economic and Job Creation Impact
The initiatives align with broader economic goals of creating new jobs and fostering small and medium-sized businesses. Agrotourism and event areas are also set to develop, supporting a sustainable regional economy. The anticipated tourist influx, expected to exceed 2 million by 2024, underlines the growing importance of tourism to the region’s economic survival.
