In accordance with the instructions of the Head of State, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, regarding the development of the tourism sector, systematic efforts are being carried out in the West Kazakhstan Region to enhance the region's tourism potential, improve tourism infrastructure, and promote tourism products.
According to the results of 2025, the West Kazakhstan Region received 160,000 tourists, including 149,000 domestic tourists and 11,000 international tourists.
To improve the quality of tourism services, professional training courses for tour guides and guide-interpreters were organized in the city of Uralsk, with the participation of 24 specialists. In addition, within the framework of the "One Tourist Attraction" project, historical, cultural, and natural sites in each district were identified to promote the tourism potential of the region.
As part of the region's tourism development initiatives, the "ORAL WINTER FEST – 2026" winter festival was held for the first time in the city of Uralsk in February 2026. The event attracted around 5,000 residents and visitors, contributing to the promotion of the region's tourism potential and the development of domestic tourism.
In addition, the "AQJAIYQ TOURISM FEST – 2026" tourism festival was organized with the participation of district akimats, museums, and representatives of the tourism industry, during which the tourism opportunities of the West Kazakhstan Region were showcased. Furthermore, the "Discover West Kazakhstan" photo and video competition is being held to promote the region's tourist attractions and natural heritage.
One of the region's key tourist destinations is Lake Shalkar. A Roadmap for 2026–2029 is currently being developed to strengthen its tourism potential. During the summer season, more than 100 traditional Kazakh yurts are installed along the lakeshore, while the number of visitors reaches up to 1,000 people per day. In cooperation with the Akimat of Terekti District, sanitary facilities, changing cabins, sports grounds, waste collection points, and a rescue station have been installed on the lakeshore. In addition, the "Shalkar Fest" cultural festival is held there on a regular basis.
As a result of monitoring the implementation of the instructions of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan on tourism development, several priority areas have been identified, including improving tourism infrastructure, enhancing road quality, raising service standards, establishing a regional tourist information center, and strengthening the sector with qualified personnel.
Furthermore, preparatory work is underway in Baiterek District for the development of an entertainment complex aimed at attracting international tourists. The "AgroFest" and "Zhaiyq Sazy" festivals have been included by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan in the National Calendar of Event Tourism for 2026. In this regard, comprehensive organizational measures are being implemented to ensure the successful preparation and high-quality organization of these festivals.