Kazakhstan is considering the creation of new gambling zones exclusively for foreign tourists, aiming to stimulate tourism, attract investment, and develop resort infrastructure without affecting the domestic social environment.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Kazakhstan recently conducted a socio-economic assessment in several potential host regions. The study revealed that a significant share of local residents supports the initiative, viewing foreign-only casinos as an economic opportunity rather than a social risk.

International Experience and Tourism Growth

According to the ministry, international experience shows that gambling zones restricted to foreign citizens can serve as an effective tool for attracting tourists, increasing employment, and developing hospitality infrastructure. Authorities emphasize that limiting access to foreigners helps minimize potential social impacts on local communities.

Proposed Locations for Gambling Zones

The government has identified three regions as potential sites for these exclusive casinos:

Mangistau Region (Caspian Sea coast)

Zhetysu Region (southeastern Kazakhstan)

Almaty Region

Mangistau Region

In Mangistau, 46% of surveyed residents supported the opening of casinos for foreign tourists. Government projections estimate that by 2029, the region could attract up to 148,000 foreign visitors, create approximately 7,000 permanent jobs, and generate around $2.3 million in annual tax revenue.

Zhetysu Region

Support is even stronger in the Zhetysu region, where 67% of respondents reported no objections to the development of foreign-only gambling facilities. By 2029, the region could host 36,000 foreign tourists annually, create 700 new jobs, and generate up to $4.7 million in yearly tax revenue.

Almaty Region

In the Almaty region, 54.5% of respondents expressed support for the initiative. Forecasts suggest that by 2030, the region could attract 23,000 foreign tourists per year. Two gambling zones could generate approximately $12.8 million in tax revenue by 2028 and create around 2,000 permanent jobs.

Legal Framework and Social Safeguards

The ministry emphasized that all gambling zones would operate strictly within Kazakhstan’s national legislation. Local authorities will determine the precise boundaries of each zone, and entry will be restricted exclusively to foreign citizens.

Officials also highlighted Kazakhstan’s broader efforts to combat gambling addiction and reduce social risks. The condition known as pathological gambling attraction is internationally recognized under ICD code F63.0. In October 2023, Kazakhstan approved a clinical protocol for the diagnosis and treatment of this disorder.

Crackdown on Online Casino Promotion

Previously, The Times of Central Asia reported that Kazakh authorities are intensifying measures against bloggers who promote online casinos. Proposed regulations include mandatory licensing for content creators and the introduction of criminal penalties, replacing current administrative fines.