THE POTENTIAL OF DOMESTIC TOURISM FOR THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF UZBEKISTAN

Abstract

This thesis examines the potential of domestic tourism as a factor of socio-economic development in Uzbekistan. The study is based on an analysis of official tourism statistics, government initiatives and the current development of domestic tourism in the country. The results demonstrate that domestic tourism can contribute to regional economic growth, employment creation, development of small businesses and more balanced territorial development. The study also identifies infrastructure, service quality, accessibility and insufficient promotion as key challenges. It is concluded that strengthening domestic tourism can increase tourism-related economic activity and support sustainable development of Uzbekistan's regions.