Publication Details
Abstract
This study examines the role of Muslim-friendly tourism competitiveness in the development of Ziyarah tourism in Uzbekistan between 2015 and 2025. Using Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) indicators, it constructs a Ziyarah Tourism Readiness Index (ZTRI) to assess how religious tourism infrastructure influences tourism performance. Employing a log-linear econometric model in an exploratory time-series framework, the analysis provides preliminary evidence on the impact of ZTRI, accessibility factors, and external shocks such as COVID-19 on tourist arrivals. The findings indicate that while Muslim-friendly services—such as halal dining and prayer facilities—positively relate to tourism growth, their statistical impact is limited. In contrast, accessibility factors, including visa liberalization and transport connectivity, emerge as the primary drivers of tourism demand. The study concludes that Ziyarah tourism development requires an integrated approach combining infrastructure, policy reforms, and improved accessibility to strengthen Uzbekistan’s competitiveness in the global Islamic tourism market.