About Uzbekistan

2010-07-26T05:13:00.000-07:00

Uzbekistan information. Uzbekistan history. Uzbekistan pictures. Map of Uzbekistan. Emblem and Flag of Uzbekistan. Pictures of Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is a new independent state in Central Asia. After the collapse of the USSR Uzbekistan chose peace-loving democratic policy and launched reforms to develop a market economy and enter international economic society as a full member.

Uzbekistan at a glance

Formal name: The Republic of Uzbekistan

Geographic coordinates: 41 00 N, 64 00 E

Area: total 447.400 km2: land: 425.400 km2, water: 22,000 km2

Land boundaries: total: 6.221 km, border countries: Afghanistan 137 km, Kazakhstan 2.203 km, Kyrgyzstan 1.099 km, Tajikistan 1.161 km, Turkmenistan 1.621 km

Population: 28 million (April, 2010)

Density of population: 50.1 per km2

Capital: Tashkent

Language Official language - Uzbek, widely used: Russian, Tajik, Kara kalpak, also English, which is getting popular among youth generation.

National currency: Sum. 1 sum=100 tiyin.

Structure: Autonomous Republic of Karakalpakistan, 12 provinces, 226 cities and districts.

Religion: Islam - 88%, Christian - 9%

Time: GMT + 05:00

Electric power: 220 V AC, 50 amp; standard two-pin plug socket

Domain zone:.uz

International dialing code: +998

Flag of Uzbekistan

Flag of Uzbekistan The national flag was approved by the Extraordinary 8th Session of the Supreme Council of the Republic of Uzbekistan on November 18, 1991.

The flag of the Republic of Uzbekistan consists of blue, white and green stripes, separated by two narrow red stripes. A crescent and three rows of twelve stars are situated on the left side of the upper blue stripe.

The blue color symbolizes the sky and water as the principle sources of life. The National flag of Amir Timur was also blue in color. The white stripe is the traditional symbol of peace and of moral and spiritual purity. The green stripe symbolizes nature, the new epoch and abundance in the countries where the majority of the population is Islamic. Besides that, this is in harmony with the modern movement of Greenpeace, which protects nature. The red separating stripes symbolize the current of vital energy in any living body and also connect our pure and noble thoughts with the sky and the earth. The crescent of the new moon, along with its traditional historical symbolism, is at the same time a symbol of the birth of republic's independence. The symbolism of twelve stars is connected historically with the solar calendar year, which begins from Navruz and embodies the twelve principles laying in the foundation of state management.

Emblem of Uzbekistan

Emblem of Uzbekistan The state emblem of the Republic of Uzbekistan was approved by the 10th Session of the Supreme Council of the Republic of Uzbekistan on July 2, 1992. The state emblem of the Republic of Uzbekistan actually absorbed the centuries-old experiences of the Uzbek people. It reflects a blossoming valley and a shining sun. The right side of the valley is set off with wheat and to the left with a cotton plant garland. The octagonal star, symbolizing the unity of the Republic, crowns the state emblem. The holy Muslim symbols of the crescent and the star are placed inside the star. In the center of the emblem there is the holy bird, Khumo, with its spread wings symbolizing magnanimity, nobility and service. These symbols reflect the long way of the Uzbek people towards peace, stability, happiness, wealth and prosperity. A little frame with the inscription "Uzbekistan" is placed in the lower part of the state emblem.

The National Anthem

The state anthem of the Republic of Uzbekistan was approved by the 11th Session of the Supreme Council of the Republic of Uzbekistan at the 12th convocation on December 10, 1992.

The lyrics are by Abdulla Aripov and the music by Mutal Bourkhanov.

Original text Translation

Serquyosh hur ulkam, elga baxt, najot,

Sen o'zing do'stlarga yo'ldosh, mehribon!

Yashnagay to abad ilmu fan, ijod,

Shuhrating porlasin toki bor jaxon!

Nakorat:

Oltin bu vodiylar - jon O'zbekiston,

Ajdodlar mardona ruhi senga yor!

Ulug' xalq qudrati jo'sh urgan zamon,

Olamni mahliyo aylagan diyor!

Bag'ri keng o'zbekning o'chmas iymoni,

Erkin, yosh avlodlar senga zo'r qanot!

Istiqlol mash'ali, tinchlik posboni,

Haqsevar, ona yurt, mangu bo'l obod!

Nakorat:

Oltin bu vodiylar - jon O'zbekiston,

Ajdodlar mardona ruhi senga yor!

Ulug' xalq qudrati jo'sh urgan zamon,

Olamni mahliyo aylagan diyor! My country, sunny and free, salvation to your people,

You are a warmhearted companion to the friends

Flourish eternally with knowledge and inventions,

May your fame shine as long as the world exist!

Refrain:

These golden valleys-dear Uzbekistan,

Manly spirit of ancestors in companion to you!

When the great power of people became exuberant

You are the country that amazes the world!

Belief of generous Uzbek does not die out,

Free, young children are a strong wing for you!

The torch of independence, guardian of peace,

Just motherland be eternally prosperous!

Refrain:

These golden valleys-dear Uzbekistan,

Manly spirit of ancestors in companion to you!

When the great power of people became exuberant

You are the country that amazes the world!

General Information

Uzbekistan weather
Location
Terrain
Climate
Currency Uzbekistan
Public holidays
Cuisine
Elevation extremes
Land use
Clothing
Luggage
Health
Security
Photography
Drinks
Shopping in Uzbekistan
Incidentals
Tipping
Natural resources in Uzbekistan
Agriculture in Uzbekistan
Industry in Uzbekistan
The largest enterprises of Uzbekistan
Major foreign investors in Uzbekistan
Sports in Uzbekistan
Communication in Uzbekistan
Tourism in Uzbekistan
Transport in Uzbekistan

Location of Uzbekistan

The Republic of Uzbekistan is situated in the central part of Central Asia between two rivers: the Amudarya and Syrdarya. The Turan Lowland lies to the northwest, and the Tien-Shan and Pamir-Alay mountain ridges are located in the southeast of the territory. The Kyzyl-Kum Desert defines the Northern part of the country. Uzbekistan borders Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan.

Terrain

Mostly flat-to-rolling sandy desert with dunes; broad, flat, intensely irrigated river valleys along the course of the Amu Darya, Sirdaryo (Syr Darya), and Zarafshon rivers; the Fergana Valley in the east surrounded by mountainous Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan; the shrinking Aral Sea in the west.

Elevation extremes

Lowest point: Sariqarnish Kuli - 12 m.

Highest point: Adelunga Toghi - 4.301 m.

Climate

The climate of Uzbekistan is extremely continental with a great number of sunny days. The average monthly temperature in January ranges from -100C to +30C. Summer is hot and dry. The average monthly temperature in July varies from +350C to +450C. Autumn is relatively warm and is the season when delicious fruits and vegetables are in abundance in the numerous bazaars (markets). The average annual temperature is 13 0C.

Tourist seasons

Because of the peculiarity of climate, first half of tourist season falls on spring months: March, April, May, and the second half is in August, September and October. Also there is tourist activity in winter months for the lovers of mountains and winter ports (ski, snowboard).

Public holidays

January 1 - New Year

March 8 - International Women's Day

March 21 - Navruz (Central Asian New Year)

May 1 - Labor Day

May 9 - Memorial/Remembrance Day

September 1 - Independence Day

October 1 - Teacher's Day

December 8 - Constitution Day.

There are other religious holidays with varying dates:

Ramadan Khait

Kurban Khait

Cuisine

There are over one thousand dishes in Uzbek cuisine. Fruits and vegetables grown under the tender oriental sun are taste fantastic. There are about 100 varieties of Uzbek plov, prepared in a different way in every region. The caloric content and ecological cleanliness of local ingredients is unique. Uzbek cuisine can not be described, it has to be tasted.

More information about Uzbek cuisine >>> Uzbekistan currency

Uzbekistan Currency

All payments must be made in "Sum", the national currency of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Currency exchange offices are available in every city of Uzbekistan. All foreign currencies may be converted in main offices of banks. Preferred currencies - US dollars and Euros.

Exchange offices in Tashkent

Land use

Arable land: 9%

Permanent crops: 1%

Permanent pastures: 46%

Forests and woodland: 3%

Other: 41% (1993 est.).

Clothing

Very light and loose clothing (preferably cotton or natural fibers) is recommended for daytime use, with a light jumper and/or casual jacket for the cooler evenings. Because of the large amount of sightseeing on foot in dry, dusty and sometimes rough areas (i.e. dirt, cobblestones, etc.), comfortable, solid walking shoes with strong soles and support are essential. You may be required to remove your shoes upon entry to some religious sites. There are no special clothing requirements for visiting Islamic religious sites, except that you should take care to cover most parts of your body including your arms and legs.

Above all travelers are encouraged to dress for comfort rather than fashion. Valuable jewelry and any clothing requiring special attention should be left at home.

Due to the very high danger of sunburn, your clothing should offer as much protection as possible.

A hat with good shade protection and sunglasses are essential.

In some areas the average visitor may appear extremely wealthy to local people. A lavish display of jewelry, bulging handbags and wallets, and a neck full of cameras will make you stand out in a crowd. Be discreet and respectful of the local culture and traditions and carry a minimum of valuables.

Luggage

A shoulder bag with a strong strap or a small rucksack is the most practical way of carrying cameras and personal belongings during your stay. Your entire luggage should be secured with a padlock. Always make sure that all cases and bags are clearly labeled. The label should carry your name and destination details but not your home address. It is a good idea to label your luggage on the inside. This will enable airport authorities to identify your luggage should it become lost, or the labels removed. Never leave your luggage unattended at airports or train stations.

Your free airline luggage allowance is 20 kg per person, plus one additional piece of 'carry-on' hand luggage on domestic flights within Central Asia, except to Turkmenistan, where the maximum baggage allowance is 10 kg. Because you will be traveling in some areas where travel conditions are rather basic, travelers are strongly urged to restrict their luggage to one main suitcase or backpack and one carry-on overnight bag.

As recommended under CURRENCY and SECURITY, an important part of your luggage will also be your money wallet for safely carrying your travel documents.

Health

You will be traveling in areas which are largely free of major infectious diseases, so there are no official vaccination requirements for foreign visitors. However, we strongly advise you to consult your physician or Vaccination Centre for current health warnings and recommended vaccinations.

As it is practically inevitable in areas where water is high in mineral and metallic salts (as is the case with Central Asia) one should be prepared for minor gastric conditions. Consult your physician or pharmacist for recommended remedies.

Throughout the areas you will be travelling, one of the main health warnings is dehydration. At all times maintain a steady intake of non-alcoholic liquids.

Sunburn is another major problem. Bring adequate suntan lotion and a wide brimmed hat. If desired, you may also bring a supply of vitamins, throat lozenges, throat gargle to prevent basic infections, cold/flu tablets, aspirins, Band-Aids, antiseptics and antibacterial cream. Please advise us if you have any allergies or particular medical aliments which may require special attention during the trip, and if your doctor has prescribed any medication, make sure that you have sufficient supplies to last the duration of your holiday.

Important: Please, ensure that you carry in your hand luggage any medicine you may require in case your suitcase is separated from you.

Insurance

Since this type of service in Uzbekistan is stillce this type of service in Uzbekistan is still developing, it is recommended to carry insurance from company of you home country.

Insurance companies in Tashkent >>>

Security

Individual safety boxes are not always available in Uzbekistan hotels. An essential part of your luggage is a comfortable money wallet, which may be worn under your clothing. At all times you should carry your main documents (i.e. currency, traveler's checks, air tickets, passports, visas etc.) While it is highly unlikely you will encounter any physical danger, minor thefts in crowded pubic places may occur and every precaution should be taken to avoid losing anything of value.

In accordance with local laws, you will be required to hand in your passport to the hotel reception on arrival to allow registration of your passport details by the hotel. Your passport will normally be available again after a few hours. Do not forget to collect it before departure.

Drinks

Local mineral water contains a higher level of minerals than western spring or bottled water and the taste can be rather "salty" (these mineral waters are considered healthier than European spring or mineral waters).

Imported spirits and wines are available, however in some places the provenance of some spirits and wines is questionable and the prices inflated. Accordingly, you are advised to purchase your favorite alcohol duty free prior to arrival.

Shopping

Travelers in Uzbekistan will be pleasantly surprised by the interesting jewelry, clothing and local handicrafts. Books, postcards and maps are other popular souvenirs. There are restrictions on exporting carpets from the country, ask your Tour Guide for detailed up-to-date information on this matter, before purchasing one.

Psychology of bargain

In the East haggling is turned into art. While haggling, you may speak loudly and don't give a sign that you are hesitating in your triumph. No doubt, sellers never lower their price to the level of your offer, however, in most cases, you can lower the price up to 20% if you negotiate.

Incidentals

You will be responsible for covering the cost of your hotel incidentals such as phone calls, room service, mini-bar in your room and laundry. Before departing from all hotels on the tour, please ensure that you have checked with the front desk for any personal charges that the hotel may have made to your room.

Tipping

Tourists may wish to express their appreciation - a reward for extra service - to the porters, waiters, drivers and guides. The degree of appreciation may vary, and our policy is to leave this to your discretion. This is usually given individually in an envelope at the end of the tour/service.

Natural resources

gas, gold, silver, and coal
steel
petroleum
iron
lead
zinc
uranium
wolfram and other rare metals
kaolin
quartz-glass and quartz sand
bauxite
phosphor
marble and granite
cooking salt
mineral waters

Agriculture

cotton
grain
vegetable
melon
fruit
silk production
sheep and cattle farming
poultry farming
astrakhan fur

Main industries:

The engineering, chemical and petrochemical, metallurgy, radio and electronic, and light industries are extensively developed.

agricultural machines
aircraft manufacturing
automobile industry
building materials
communication
cotton and silk textiles
electric power
fuel
gas
food industry
mining
roads and airports

The largest Uzbek enterprises

Fergana Oil Refinery
Muborek Gas
Bukhara Oil Refinery
Almalikskiy GMK
Bukharatex yarn and fabrics
Shurtangas
Navoi Nitrogen
Tashkent Wine
Uzbek Metal

Major foreign investors

USA, Germany, Switzerland, France, Japan, South Korea, Russia, Turkey, China, Benelux

Sports in Uzbekistan

Many new state provided stadiums, sport complexes, pools, sports clubs, and private fitness clubs cater to the great demand for physical exercise. "Sportsman" is a widely used term here. Uzbekistan has produced Olympic champions in kickboxing, boxing, wrestling, gymnastics, and chess, who have brought home medals from Atlanta, Sydney, and Lillehammer.

Dilshod Aripov - world champion wrestler

Mahamadkodir Abdullaev, Sergey Mikhailov, Rustam Saidov, Ruslan Chagaev, Artur Grigoryan Olympic and World champions in boxing

Iroda Tuliaganova - WTA tennis champion

Oksana Chusovitina - world champion gymnast

The President's Cup, an international tennis tournament, draws WTC star players

Tashkent golf club, the only 18-hole venue in Central Asia, complete with guest rooms, will host international tournaments in the future.

Communications in Uzbekistan

analog and digital phone communication
international long distance
cellular companies in Uzbekistan
paging service
internet
international express carrier service
worldwide cargo service

Tourism in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is a member of the executive council of the WTO.

Over 4000 historical architectural monuments and sites, around 500 travel companies and organizations with partners in 24 countries worldwide, 5- and 4-star of International chains, private hotels of all categories.

68 museums, arts and crafts masters, shops, folk dance and music ensembles, silk and cotton fashion designers, certified city guides and private guides through Uzbekistan, culture tourism, eco tourism, specialized tours, nature tourism, and resorts.

Brief information about tourism in Uzbekistan

Transport in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan Airways: Airbus fleet to over 20 worldwide destinations international airports:

Tashkent, Samarkand, Urgench domestic airports: Bukhara, Qarshi, Termez, Navoi, Zarafshan, Nukus, Fergana, and Namangan. Railway 7000 km; Service to most major cities.

Bus and minibus service; tramways; taxi service; in every city you may hire private drivers of "Nexia" sedans.

Recommended hotels in Tashkent city

2010-06-29T23:38:00.000-07:00

Grand Mir Hotel *****
126 guest rooms: 105 standard rooms / 6 Grand Suites / 11 Junior suites / 4 Non-Smoker rooms / air conditioner / large wardrobe / lamp-brackets / local and long-distance telephone / safe / hairdryer / mini bar / Satellite broadcasting of 5 local and 30 international channels / bath and shower. Restaurant. Fitness centre. Sauna. Beauty salon. Busines centre. Conference hall. Exchange office. Laundry. Doctor. Lobby.

Hotel Uzbekistan ****
166 rooms: Single bed / King Size bed / Twin beds / Mini bar / Shower cabin / Coffee table / Bath room / TV – 26 channels / Alarm clock / Touch dial telephone / Hair drier / Independent temperature control / Separate guest en-suite bathroom / 2 Wardrobes / Comfortable furniture
Hotel "Uzbekistan" is situated in business centre of the city, by metro station "Amir Temur". It is 10 km away from International Airport, 7 km away from Northern Railway Station.

Le Grande Plaza Hotel ****
300 specious guest rooms sprawling over 42 sq m, including 14 Suites. Non smoking floors and rooms for the handicapped are also available.
All guest rooms are equipped with a range of deluxe amenities, telephone, voice mail, colour TV, Satellite TV and radio channel, air conditioning control.
Fully stocked mini- bar, refrigerator, tea and coffee making facilities & hair dryer. Each room also comes with a personal safe deposit box and 24 hour service is also accorded to all rooms.

Tashkent Palace Hotel ****
245 Deluxe, Superior and Suite Rooms: 195 bedrooms with King size bed / 50 bedrooms with two single beds / air conditioning / bathroom / baby sitting services / mini bar / satellite TV / hairdryer / Internet connection / international direct dial telephones / working desk / room service. Restaurant. Bar. Business center. Fitness center. Swimming pool. Health club. Gift
shops. Laundry. Currency Exchange.

Markiziy Hotel ****
The Markaziy Hotel offers 251 beautifully furnished Guest Rooms, including 7 fully equipped Executive Suites and an elegant Presidential Suite. An additional level of service and luxury is available on the Towers Level. The Hotel is also pleased to offer handicapped access and non-smoking rooms.

Hotel Asia Tashkent****
All rooms are air-conditioned and have direct dial telephones, satellite TV, mini bar, access to internet, a hairdryer. The Hotel offers 72 rooms: Standard: Single / Double / triple

Rovshan Hotel ***
47 guest rooms: 38 standard double bedrooms with two single beds, 9 LUX-rooms with double beds, 2 bedrooms with three single beds / air conditioner / telephone / satellite TV (25 channels) / bathroom / hairdryer. Reception. Restaurant. 2 Conference halls for 25 and 50 persons. Currency exchange office. Babysitter. International telephone & Internet access at the reception.

Malika Hotel ***
27 rooms: 15 double rooms / 7 single rooms / 5 deluxe rooms / individually controlled air conditioning / IDD telephone / satellite TV / bath or shower / mini-bar. Restaurant. Business center. Conference hall. Banquet hall. Sauna with Jacuzzi. 24 hours room service. Laundry. Parking.

Отдых

About Uzbekistan

Recommended hotels in Tashkent city