Security travel advice for Uzbekistan

HOW SAFE IS UZBEKISTAN?

Threat level:Medium-High

The current travel advice for Uzbekistan is to remain vigilant at all times due to the ongoing security situation throughout the region. Please be mindful of the heightened risks at the bordering areas. By taking general security measures you can lower your personal risk with regards to domestic crime, and your stay should be trouble free.

COVID-19 Situation in Uzbekistan

Due to the pandemic, Uzbekistan has banned entry to overseas travellers from Europe. To control the spread of the virus, the use of face masks is mandatory when outside in public and large gatherings are restricted. To avoid contracting the disease, wear a face mask, sanitise your hands regularly, maintain social distancing, avoid unnecessary travel and gatherings.

Recent Security Risk Events
It is recommended that you avoid all bordering areas between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, Kyrgyz Republic and Tajikistan, in addition the city of Andijan due to the current and ongoing unstable security situation within these areas.

There is a threat of terrorism globally against western interests, this is heightened within this country and great care and vigilance should be taken when visiting entertainment establishments, places of worship, outdoor recreations events and public sites visited by foreigners.

Security Risks

There have been a number of reports of thieves impersonating police officials and issuing on the spot fines or mugging their victim. The best travel advice for Uzbekistan is that if you are approached by an official, you should ask to see verifiable identification before interacting with then. If you have been legitimately fined you are able to pay fines at the nearest police station rather than immediately.

It is recommended that you do not show any affluence due to the level of petty crime targeted at tourists and foreign visitors. You should take personal security measures and secure valuable belongings and important documents somewhere safe. It is also recommended that you do not travel at night especially to rural areas and that you do not show signs of wealth at all times in these locations.

There have been incidents of raids on entertainment and establishments where staff and guests have been subject to violence. If this happens during your stay please follow instructions and leave to a safe area at the soonest possible time.

There are prominent areas, such as the Fergana Valley and border areas which can be unpredictable and often flashpoints for violent clashes and risen tensions.

Violent demonstrations have taken place within the country, which has seen shootings against protesters. There has also been bombings which have been blamed on Islamic terrorists. Leave any areas of public protests or demonstrations as soon as possible to do so.

Please note that Uzbekistan is known to be an authoritarian country in which media is tightly controlled, human rights may not be as it is in other parts of the world where torture is alleged to have taken place.

UZBEKISTAN'S INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

It is one of the world’s largest producers of cotton and is rich in natural resources such as gold, gas and oil, however economic stability has been slow to develop in light of its unstable security situation.

The country had developed links with the United States after it had allowed the US forces to be based within its country for the ongoing issues in Afghanistan. In recent years relations between Uzbekistan and the western world has improved, however relations between itself and Russia has lessened.

TRAVELLING AROUND UZBEKISTAN

Borders to neighbouring countries such as Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan are often closed at short notice and may have unexploded land mines along them. Great care should be taken. The border between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan on the road between Tashkent and Samarkand is closed.

Road conditions are poor throughout the country, particularly in the Fan and Tian Shan mountain areas. Please do not drive at night as the highways are not lit and risk of danger is increased. There is the likelihood of being stopped by police to verify identification or minor offences and this may include demands for money.

Only use officially marked taxis and exercise caution when travelling on public transport, especially trains where you should ensure compartment doors and luggage are secured.

Uzbekistan is within an active seismic zone, please be mindful and know what to do in the event of this and other natural disasters within the country.

COMMERCIAL TRAVEL RISK SERVICES

EMERGENCY SERVICES IN UZBEKISTAN:

Police emergency: 02
Medical emergency: 03
Fire emergency: 01

UZBEKISTAN OVERVIEW

Capital: Tashkent
Official languages: Uzbek
Religion:Islam
Currency: Uzbekistan som

CONSULAR INFORMATION FOR UZBEKISTAN

U.S. Embassy Tashkent
3 Moyqorghon Street,
5th Block,
Yunusobod District,
100093,
Tashkent
Telephone: +99871 120 5450
Email: TashkentInfo@state.gov

British Embassy Tashkent
67, Gulyamov Street,
Tashkent,
100000,
Uzbekistan
Telephone: +99 871 120 1500
Email: ukin.uzbekistan@fco.gov.uk

VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR UZBEKISTAN

For stays of up to 30 days, British people can travel to Uzbekistan visa-free. Further information on requirements for Uzbekistan can be found at: Visa Check Uzbekistan

HEALTHCARE AND IMMUNISATIONS

It is advised that visitors to Uzbekistan are up-to-date with primary boosters such as MMR. You should ensure that you have been further vaccinated against diseases such as Tetanus, which is usually administered when you are a young baby. You may also want to consider Typhoid and Hepatitis A vaccinations. Check with your local health professional prior to travel if you are unsure.

The general standard of medical care and services in the country are poor and are almost non-existent beyond the capital city. It is highly advised that you avoid all but emergency treatment in the country as staff are poorly trained and the facilities lack even the most basic equipment and are often unhygienic.

Serious injury or illness mat require medical evacuation to either New Delhi, India or better equipped European countries. Ensure your medical insurance covers the cost of medical evacuation.