
Almaty's Mountain Cluster: A $10 Billion All-Season Tourism Boom
Almaty's Mountain Cluster Poised to Become Central Asia's Largest All-Season Resort by 2029 Almaty, Kazakhstan – The Almaty mountain cluster is set for a major transformation, aiming to become the largest all-season tourist destination in Central Asia by 2029. This ambitious project promises to create up to 10,000 new jobs and significantly boost the Kazakh economy. The plan includes expanding ski slopes to between 300 and 700 kilometers, all equipped with world-class infrastructure. The project also emphasizes eco-friendly transportation and year-round activities to attract a steady flow of tourists. "I am fully convinced that this will completely change the economic landscape," stated Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov, highlighting the project's potential to diversify Kazakhstan's economy beyond its traditional reliance on oil. The increase in visitor capacity is projected to be dramatic, with daily numbers rising from 6,000 to 34,000, ensuring a year-round income stream for the region. The project's focus on sustainability is another key element, with plans for eco-friendly transportation and diverse activities such as cycling, glamping, and ethno-hotels. This comprehensive approach aims to create a vibrant and sustainable tourism hub in the heart of the Almaty mountains, promising significant economic and environmental benefits for Kazakhstan.