Almaty's tourism sector posted robust growth in 2025, with the city generating 110.9 billion tenge (US$240 million) in tourism revenues as visitor numbers climbed and investment accelerated sharply.
The volume of tourism services expanded by 15.2% year-on-year, according to the city administration, reflecting a broader recovery and expansion across the sector. Total investment in tourism reached 198.8 billion tenge (US$430 million), representing a 39.4% increase compared to the previous year.
The bulk of investment capital flowed into supporting industries, including intercity rail transport, air and ground passenger services, hospitality, food services, entertainment, and car rental and leasing operations.
Visitor numbers continued their upward trajectory throughout the year. Almaty welcomed nearly 2.49 million tourists in 2025, a 6.3% rise from the prior year. International arrivals numbered 754,000, up 9.9%, while domestic tourism reached 1.7 million travelers, a 4.8% increase.
Spending by foreign visitors outpaced the growth in arrival numbers. According to Mastercard Tourism Insights, international tourist expenditures in the city rose by 40%, while overall interest in travel to Almaty jumped 73%.
Tax revenues from tourism-related activities climbed 27.2% to 84 billion tenge (US$180 million), with food services, sports and entertainment, and short-term accommodation serving as the primary contributors.
The city's growing appeal has garnered international recognition. CNN Travel designated Almaty one of the best destinations for 2025, labeling it the Capital of Cool in Central Asia. Bloomberg separately included the city in its top 25 places to visit in 2026.
Officials say the combination of rising investments, improved infrastructure, and increasing global visibility is positioning Almaty as one of the region's leading tourism hubs.