Tourism in Tajikistan: Five Years of Progress and Persistent Barriers
Five years ago, Canadian researcher Christian Bleuer identified 25 key obstacles hindering the growth of Tajikistan’s tourism sector. Since then, the industry has made measurable progress but many challenges remain unresolved. Digitalization and Initial Progress Significant strides have been made in digital infrastructure. The introduction of electronic visas, online services, and the availability of eSIM cards has improved access for international travelers. Dushanbe has witnessed the opening of new hotels and restaurants, an expansion of taxi services in major cities, and the reconstruction of sections of the M41 highway. Other positive steps include training programs for tour guides, the creation of tourist information centers in Dushanbe, Khorog, and other cities, and growing competition in the hospitality and restaurant industries. Experts also note that travel bloggers and social media have, in some cases, done more to improve the country’s image than official marketing campaigns. Partial Improvements While services have improved in urban areas, regional disparities persist. Tourists can now find decent hotels and cafes in major cities, but service quality outside these hubs remains inconsistent. The e-visa system has streamlined entry procedures, although public awareness of the platform is still low. Digital tools such as Google Maps and mobile apps assist navigation in urban centers, but coverage remains sparse outside Dushanbe and Khujand. Financial infrastructure has also improved, with more ATMs available in the capital. However, access to foreign currency remains a barrier. Aviation has seen some progress under the "Open Skies" policy, with new routes to China and Uzbekistan launched, though high airfares continue to deter potential visitors. Ongoing Challenges Several systemic issues continue to hamper tourism development. Connectivity remains weak: Tajikistan ranks 117th globally for fixed internet speed and lags behind regional peers in mobile data performance, averaging under 24 Mbps. Environmental concerns also diminish the visitor experience. Litter is visible not only in rural areas but even in Dushanbe. Transport remains problematic, with the Jirgatal border crossing closed to foreigners and the Pamir Highway via the Khaburabad Pass largely inaccessible during winter months. A national ban on drones restricts opportunities for photo and video tourism. Additionally, poor coordination among tour operators, taxi drivers, and hoteliers prevents the formation of a unified tourism strategy. Structural Constraints Some limitations are more difficult to overcome. Tajikistan’s geography, landlocked and bordering Afghanistan, poses accessibility challenges. The country also lacks the architectural heritage that makes neighboring Uzbekistan a dominant player in regional cultural tourism. Urban development trends further complicate matters. The demolition of historical buildings and widespread tree-cutting in Dushanbe have eroded the capital’s aesthetic appeal. Tajikistan’s Tourism Development Strategy to 2030 acknowledges the sector’s underperformance. Its contribution to the global tourism market remains modest, constrained by low investment, weak infrastructure, and uneven service quality. Nevertheless, experts believe the sector holds untapped potential. Tourism could create employment opportunities for young people and help reduce labor migration. Realizing this potential will require stronger private sector involvement, upgraded services, and more effective international promotion.
