Awaza National Tourist Zone, Turkmenbashi, Turkmenistan

The Awaza National Tourist Zone, located on the eastern shore of the Caspian Sea in the city of Turkmenbashi, is Turkmenistan’s ambitious step towards becoming a prominent tourist destination. Inaugurated in 2007 by former President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, Awaza represents a significant investment in the country’s tourism sector.

History of Tourism in Awaza

The foundation of Awaza’s tourism can be traced back to the vision of transforming a previously underutilized coastline into a luxurious resort area. Rich in natural gas reserves, Turkmenistan funneled its resources into creating this zone with hopes of diversifying its economy away from its traditional reliance on gas and oil exports.

Over the years, substantial development took place, resulting in the construction of upscale hotels, spa centers, indoor aquatic parks, and a plethora of other facilities designed to cater to both international and domestic tourists.

The area, however, faced a tough challenge in attracting tourists due to the country's stringent visa policies and the peripheral location of Turkmenistan as a tourist destination. Nonetheless, the government continued to push for Awaza’s development, believing it could become the "Turkmen Las Vegas" by offering a combination of entertainment, health, and conference tourism.

Current Touristic Appeal of Awaza

Awaza now boasts an impressive landscape of modern architecture, with several luxurious hotels that line the shores of the Caspian Sea, offering picturesque views and quality service. It is marketed as an ideal spot for both relaxation and business, with facilities equipped for international conferences and summits.

Its attractions include a variety of water sports, yacht clubs, and fine dining experiences. Tourists can also explore nearby historical and natural sites, such as the Yangykala Canyon and the Krasnovodsk Bay's diverse ecosystem. The government has provided special tax incentives and has made strategic moves to simplify visa procedures in order to stimulate Awaza’s growth as a tourist hub.

Latest Tourism Trend in Awaza

Given the growing global awareness of sustainable tourism, there has been a trend towards promoting eco-friendly practices within Awaza. The developments in the area strive for ecological sustainability, aiming to harmonize with the natural beauty of the Caspian coast while reducing environmental impact.

Awaza is also aiming to boost its appeal by hosting various cultural events, sports competitions, and international forums. These events are part of a broader trend in tourism where visitors are increasingly seeking out unique experiences and cultural immersion.