The New Visa-Free Development
In a significant move to boost tourism and cultural exchange, Uzbekistan has introduced a conditional visa-free regime for Indian citizens. According to a presidential decree that took effect on September 1, 2026, Indian passport holders with a valid
multiple-entry visa from select countries can enter Uzbekistan without a visa for up to 30 days. The eligible third-country visas include those issued by the United States, United Kingdom, Schengen Area member states, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and the Republic ofKorea. To qualify, travellers must also hold a confirmed air ticket for their return journey or onward travel to another country. For Indian citizens who do not hold one of these specific visas, the standard e-visa process remains in place.
A Strategic Welcome Mat
This policy shift is not happening in a vacuum. It is the latest step in Uzbekistan's ambitious strategy to open its doors to the world and establish itself as a major tourism hub. This initiative is expected to strengthen people-to-people contacts and business interactions between the two nations, which elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership in 2011. The announcement followed high-level talks between Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Bilateral trade between the two nations surpassed USD 1 billion for the first time last year, and the number of joint ventures has seen a sevenfold increase in recent years, highlighting a deepening economic relationship.
Improved Air Connectivity
Getting to Uzbekistan is also becoming more convenient. The two countries are already connected by 14 direct flights every week. Further enhancing this, Uzbekistan-based airline Centrum Air is expanding its network in India. Building on its existing Delhi-Tashkent route, the airline is launching a new direct service between Hyderabad and Tashkent starting from September 28, 2026. This new 'air bridge' to South India will operate twice a week, significantly reducing travel time and making the country more accessible for tourists, students, and business travellers from the region.
The Allure of the Silk Road
So, why is Uzbekistan capturing the imagination of Indian travellers? The appeal lies in its rich tapestry of history, much of which is intertwined with India's own Mughal past. The country offers a chance to walk through ancient history in cities that feel like open-air museums. Samarkand, with its majestic Registan Square; Bukhara, with its labyrinthine old city and sacred sites; and the walled city of Khiva, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are magnets for history buffs. Beyond the monuments, the country offers vibrant bazaars like Tashkent's Chorsu Bazaar, a rich culinary tradition featuring dishes like Plov, and the legendary warmth of its people. The number of Indian tourists has been steadily rising, from 45,500 in 2023 to nearly 81,000 in 2025, and this new travel policy is set to accelerate that trend.
