Interim President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a decree “On measures on ensuring rapid development of tourism industry in Uzbekistan”.

According to the decree, licenses to carry out tourism activities from 1 January will be issued to tourism operators, tourism agencies, excursion organizations and tourism firms.

The decree said that existence of system of ensuring security for life, health and property of tourists, affirmed with certificate of tourism services, is mandatory at rendering tourism services.

From 1 January, tourism services, provided by entities, related to tourism activities – hotels, motels, camping and accommodation sites should undergo mandatory certification. At the same time, requirements to obtain license on activities, related to providing tourism services, will be abolished for hotels and similar accommodation sites.

From 1 January 2018, mandatory certification for catering and automobile transportation enterprises, who provide services to foreign tourists, will be introduced.

Services of guide and instructors can be provided by individuals and employees of the business entities after they obtain qualification certificate from the State Committee of Uzbekistan on development of tourism.

According to the decree, the tourism enterprises have right to sign agreements (contracts) with tourism companies on rendering tourism services for foreign tourists only if they have corresponding certificates.