Uzbekistan

All travelers entering Uzbekistan must have a valid passport. Entry requirements depend on nationality:

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of several countries, including Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Georgia, and select others, can enter Uzbekistan without a visa for stays up to 30 or 60 days.

e-Visa

Citizens of more than 70 countries can apply for an e-Visa online. The e-Visa is typically valid for 30 days and must be obtained before arrival.

Visa Required

Travelers from countries not eligible for visa-free or e-Visa entry must apply for a visa at an Uzbek embassy or consulate. A valid passport and application are required.

Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality, as they may change.

Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar, can enter the UAE using their national ID cards. Other travelers must present a valid passport.

Toll Roads in Uzbekistan

Currently, Uzbekistan does not have an extensive toll road system. However, there are plans to introduce toll roads in the future. Most roads in Uzbekistan are free to use.

Driving Tips in Uzbekistan:

• Right-Hand Driving: Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Seat Belts: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all passengers.
• Speed Limits: Urban areas: 60 km/h, highways: 90-120 km/h, depending on the type of road.
• Road Conditions: While major roads are generally in good condition, rural areas may have poorly maintained roads, so caution is advised when driving in remote regions.

Weather in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, marked by dry conditions throughout most of the year.

Summer (June to August)

Summers in Uzbekistan are extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) in desert areas. The cities of Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara experience slightly cooler temperatures, but it remains hot.

Winter (December to February)

Winters can be cold, especially in northern regions, where temperatures can drop below freezing. Snowfall is common in higher elevations.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are the most pleasant times to visit Uzbekistan, with mild temperatures and less extreme weather.
• Summer Precautions: If visiting during summer, stay hydrated and avoid the midday heat.
• Winter Precautions: If visiting in winter, pack warm clothing, especially for traveling to rural or higher-altitude areas.

Currency in Uzbekistan

The official currency of Uzbekistan is the Uzbekistani Som (UZS), symbolized as soʻm or UZS.

Banknotes and Coins

The Som is available in banknotes of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 50,000, and 100,000 UZS. Smaller coins are less commonly used.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are available in major cities, airports, and banks. It’s recommended to exchange foreign currency at official exchange offices, as the black market for currency exchange has largely been eliminated.

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas, but cash is still the most common form of payment, especially in smaller towns and rural areas.

Travel Tips

• Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid issues with card transactions.
• Cash Availability: Carry small amounts of cash, as it’s commonly used for daily purchases.
• ATMs: ATMs are available in major cities, but may be less common in rural areas, so it’s advisable to withdraw sufficient cash when in cities.