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On November 22, 2024, within the framework of the initiative “Tashkent Loves Youth”, an open dialog on the topic “Youth Tourism” was held in “Zakovat Arena”. The event brought together young people interested in the prospects for the development of the tourism industry, as well as leading experts in this field.

Tourism today is not only one of the most profitable sectors of the world economy, but also a powerful tool of cultural and social interaction. A special role in its development is played by the youth segment, which contributes to the strengthening of international ties and the formation of new travel formats.

In the framework of the dialog, experts revealed to the participants the advantages and opportunities that tourism opens for young people.
Among the experts who spoke were Gulchekhra Israilova, Chairman of the Association of Private Tourism Agencies of Uzbekistan (APTA), Akbar Umarov, Chairman of the Association of Chefs of Uzbekistan, Zakir Gafurov, General Manager of "HotelPro Management", Sanjar Mominov, General Manager of “Wyndham Garden Tashkent” hotel.

One of the speakers was Gulchekhra Bakhodirovna Israilova. She spoke in detail about the work of APTA, business initiatives and projects aimed at the development of domestic and inbound tourism.
Gulchekhra Israilova answered numerous questions of the youth, paying special attention to:
- Regional development of tourism. The speaker emphasized the importance of an integrated approach to tourism development in all regions of the country. Geographical diversity of Uzbekistan allows developing mountain, business, cultural, ecological tourism and other types of tourism. This approach contributes to the elimination of seasonality in the industry.
- The need to learn key skills. Young people were advised to study history, business correspondence, communication skills and foreign languages.
In addition, Gulchekhra Israilova said that APTA actively involves students in its projects. The example of the international tourism exhibition in B2B format “Tashkent Travel Mart-2024” showed how students of the tourism sector get practical experience in the format of internships.
- Job prospects. She noted that knowledge of foreign languages and the history of Uzbekistan is key to working as guides and tour guides. Specialized courses for beginners were also recommended.

“Youth should be active to feel the atmosphere of tourism, find their motivation and harden themselves in this field,” the APTA chairwoman said. She added that the APTA staff is a young team that serves as an example for students.

The event became a platform for sharing experience and inspiration. The youth received valuable advice and motivation to build a career in tourism, develop their knowledge and contribute to the future of the industry.
Dialogues of this format confirm that youth tourism is not just a market segment, but an important tool for creating new opportunities and building bridges between cultures.