Abstract
This study explores strategies for developing tourism and hospitality in Uzbekistan, focusing on enhancing its unique cultural heritage and natural resources to boost economic growth and international appeal. Despite recent efforts by the Uzbek government to improve infrastructure and attract tourists, gaps remain in sustainable tourism practices, market diversification, and service quality. Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted qualitative interviews with industry experts and quantitative surveys with tourists and local stakeholders to assess current challenges and opportunities. Findings reveal a need for strategic investment in eco-tourism, workforce training, and digital marketing to improve Uzbekistan’s competitiveness. The results suggest that targeted policy interventions and public-private partnerships could significantly enhance the sector’s growth, directly impacting economic diversification and community development. This research contributes to understanding the critical drivers of tourism development and provides actionable insights for policymakers aiming to create a sustainable tourism framework.