Kazakhstan’s tourism sector is entering a transformative era with the announcement of a landmark partnership between UN Tourism and the Almaty Tourism Bureau. This collaboration forms part of the global Centre Stage initiative, designed to empower women working in tourism, promote cultural exchange, and champion sustainability.
The partnership highlights Kazakhstan’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation in tourism. By placing women at the center of decision-making and equipping them with the skills to thrive as leaders and entrepreneurs, the program sets a new standard for gender equality and sustainable development in Central Asia’s tourism industry.
The Centre Stage Initiative: Building Confidence and Opportunity
The Centre Stage initiative, launched by UN Tourism, is a worldwide framework that recognizes the vital role of women in transforming tourism. Through targeted training, mentorship, and funding opportunities, the program equips women with the tools to advance careers, build businesses, and lead organizations.
In Kazakhstan, this initiative is being adapted to local needs with the support of the Almaty Tourism Bureau. By tailoring strategies to regional realities, the program ensures that Kazakh women in tourism have greater access to resources and can participate fully in shaping the future of the industry.
Entrepreneurship: Women Leading New Tourism Ventures
Women play a major role in Kazakhstan’s tourism workforce, yet challenges remain in access to capital, training, and leadership opportunities. The new partnership is set to change that. By providing entrepreneurship support, such as funding, networking platforms, and mentorship, the program aims to empower women to establish successful tourism enterprises.
From boutique guesthouses in the mountains of Almaty to eco-tourism lodges on the steppes, women entrepreneurs will have new opportunities to showcase Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage, landscapes, and traditions. Supporting these ventures not only diversifies the tourism economy but also makes it more inclusive and resilient.
Closing the Leadership Gap in Tourism
Despite their strong presence in the workforce, women in Kazakhstan remain underrepresented in leadership positions within tourism organizations and government bodies. Addressing this imbalance is a key focus of the Centre Stage program.
Through leadership development courses, mentorship, and advocacy initiatives, women will gain the confidence and skills needed to rise to senior roles. By increasing women’s representation at the decision-making level, Kazakhstan’s tourism sector can become more dynamic, innovative, and globally competitive.
Cultural Tourism: Showcasing Kazakhstan’s Heritage
One of the most exciting elements of the partnership is its emphasis on cultural tourism. Kazakhstan’s unique ethnic diversity, ancient traditions, and breathtaking landscapes provide rich material for immersive tourism experiences.
Women artisans, chefs, and performers will play a vital role in preserving and sharing this heritage. From traditional crafts to culinary workshops and cultural performances, the program will help women showcase Kazakhstan’s culture on an international stage, while also ensuring local communities benefit from tourism growth.
Sustainability: Women at the Forefront of Eco-Tourism
Sustainable travel is now central to global tourism development, and Kazakhstan is positioning itself as a leader in this area. By empowering women to develop eco-friendly tourism projects, the initiative combines gender equality with environmental stewardship.
New initiatives will include eco-tourism programs, wildlife protection, and community-based conservation. Women-led projects will highlight Kazakhstan’s stunning mountains, steppes, and lakes while ensuring natural resources remain protected for future generations. This focus strengthens Kazakhstan’s international image as a sustainable tourism destination.
Training and Capacity Building
The program is supported by a series of workshops, seminars, and training sessions that equip women with practical skills in hospitality management, digital marketing, tour guiding, and event planning.
In October 2025, Almaty will host the Regional Conference on the Empowerment of Women in Tourism, bringing together policymakers, tourism leaders, and professionals from across Europe and Central Asia. The event will focus on advancing gender equality and sustainability while sharing best practices that can inspire other countries.
Positioning Kazakhstan on the Global Tourism Map
The partnership also supports Kazakhstan’s broader tourism development strategy. With its unique blend of culture, adventure, and natural beauty, the country has the potential to become a major global tourism hub.
Marketing campaigns will highlight authentic experiences such as horseback riding on the steppes, exploring Silk Road heritage sites, and wellness tourism in the Tien Shan mountains. By integrating women-led businesses into these strategies, Kazakhstan will promote tourism that is both inclusive and globally competitive.
Cultural Exchange and International Collaboration
Beyond domestic development, the program fosters cultural exchange between Kazakhstan and international markets. Tourism partnerships with Europe and Southeast Asia will help attract more visitors interested in new cultural experiences. At the same time, Kazakh women in tourism will have opportunities to collaborate with global counterparts, strengthening networks and building lasting professional connections.
Empowering Women, Enriching Tourism
This partnership is a milestone for both Kazakhstan and the global tourism industry. By focusing on women’s empowerment, leadership development, and sustainability, UN Tourism and the Almaty Tourism Bureau are paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic tourism sector.
As Kazakhstan expands its role in international tourism, placing women at the center ensures that growth is balanced, culturally rich, and environmentally responsible. By 2028 and beyond, Kazakhstan could emerge as a shining example of how empowering women in tourism not only transforms industries but also strengthens communities and preserves heritage for future generations.
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