Issyk-Kul, Aug. 30, 2026 /Kabar/. Tourism in Turkmenistan has been a priority area of state policy in recent years. Gulyalek Mukhammetberdyeva, Head of the International Press and Information Department of the State News Agency of Turkmenistan told at the 35th meeting of the Council of Heads of CIS State News Agencies.
According to her, the country provides state support to private companies operating in the tourism sector. Currently, more than 70 companies offer various tourist routes and services.
"We have a lot to offer. In recent years, tourism has been a priority area of state policy, and we are investing in it. Private companies working in this area receive state support at the state level," she noted.
Mukhammetberdyeva emphasized that travel companies are attracting young specialists with foreign language skills to work with tourists from various countries, including the CIS, the Asia-Pacific region, and Europe.
She named the country's rich cultural and historical heritage as one of Turkmenistan's main tourism resources.
"Our heritage includes wonderful Turkmen carpets, which many tourists try to purchase, and Akhal-Teke horses. Tourists are offered trips to Akhal-Teke complexes, where they can see these unique horses," she explained. She paid special attention to the Avaza National Tourist Zone, which has been actively developing since 2008, adding new hotels and infrastructure. This October, Avaza is scheduled to host meetings of the CIS Council of Heads of State and a number of cultural events.
She also noted Turkmenistan's rich historical heritage. Among the most significant sites were the ancient cities of Merv, Nisa, and Kunya Urgench, which are included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
According to Mukhammetberdieva, Turkmenistan boasts a large number of ancient monuments, many of which are over two thousand years old. Archaeological research continues at these historical sites, involving specialists from various countries.
Furthermore, the country has nine state nature reserves, including the Badkhyz, Repetek, and Khazar Nature Reserves.
Desert tourism, she noted, is a separate area. Desert territories and dunes attract tourists interested in extreme travel and unusual nature routes.
During the meeting, participants were also shown a video showcasing Turkmenistan's tourism potential, including historical monuments, desert landscapes, the Avaza national tourist zone, and the country's capital, Ashgabat.
