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Kazakhstan bets on casinos to lure tourists and boost regional economies

Four new regions will soon roll the dice on economic revival. Can Kazakhstan's bold casino push turn tourism into a jackpot?

The image shows a poster advertising the Estoril Casino in Portugal. It features a vibrant array of...
The image shows a poster advertising the Estoril Casino in Portugal. It features a vibrant array of flowers, leaves, and text, as well as a few people, buildings, and a body of water in the background.

Kazakhstan bets on casinos to lure tourists and boost regional economies

Kazakhstan is set to expand its casino industry into four new regions. The move aims to boost foreign tourism and generate additional revenue. Officials have highlighted job creation and economic benefits as key drivers behind the decision.

The government announced that Mangystau, Almaty, Jetisu, and Ulytau will host the new casino developments. Local authorities will select the exact sites based on existing infrastructure. Each location is expected to bring in 2-3 billion tenge in annual tax revenue.

The expansion follows a 2025 law legalising casinos in pilot regions like Burabay and Kapchagay. However, as of March 2026, no casinos have opened in those areas. Tourism and Sports Minister Yerbol Myrzabosynov stated that the new projects are designed to attract more international visitors.

Each casino is projected to create around 500 jobs. The government hopes the developments will strengthen regional economies while positioning Kazakhstan as a more appealing destination for foreign tourists.

The casino expansion plan focuses on economic growth and tourism. If successful, the four new regions could see increased investment and employment opportunities. The first sites will be chosen based on readiness, with tax revenues expected to follow shortly after opening.

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