The Kazakhstan Tourism Organisation and Germany's Deutscher Reiseverband (DRV) have agreed to hold the DRV Destination Forum in Astana in August 2026. This event aims to promote Kazakhstan's tourism potential to European travel companies and operators. It highlights the country's diverse attractions and efforts to boost international visitor numbers.
Astana, Kazakhstan's capital, will host the DRV Destination Forum in August 2026, a collaboration between the Kazakhstan Tourism Organisation and the Deutscher Reiseverband (DRV). The DRV, which represents more than 4,000 travel companies and covers 90% of the German travel market, sees the forum as a platform to promote Kazakhstan's tourism sector to one of Europe's largest outbound markets.
Minister of Tourism and Sports Yerbol Myrzabossynov described the event as a key step in Kazakhstan's tourism strategy, emphasizing eco-tourism, luxury travel, and cultural experiences. He noted the country's focus on improving air access, visa facilitation, and tourism infrastructure to remain competitive globally. Recent initiatives, including simplified visa policies, have contributed to a steady rise in international visitors, particularly from Germany, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy.
The forum will showcase Kazakhstan's geographical diversity, including rolling steppes, snow-capped mountains, vast deserts, pristine lakes, and coastal areas along the Caspian Sea such as the Mangystau region. Popular sites include hiking trails and winter sports in the Almaty region, unique rock formations in Mangystau, and natural retreats like Burabay National Park near Astana. Culturally, attractions feature the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Turkistan and historical Silk Road routes.
Astana itself serves as a modern hub with its futuristic skyline, cultural institutions, and international connectivity, positioning it as a gateway between Europe and Asia. The event is expected to foster partnerships, leading to new travel packages and increased European visitors. Kazakhstan also introduced the Neo Nomad Visa, allowing remote workers to stay for up to one year, supporting long-term tourism growth.
Organizers anticipate the forum will enhance bilateral tourism cooperation, boost arrivals, and contribute to economic benefits through job creation and infrastructure development.
