ORGANIZATIONAL MECHANISMS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF PILGRIMAGE TOURISM IN UZBEKISTAN
Abstract
Pilgrimage tourism has become an increasingly important component of national tourism strategies due to its strong links with cultural heritage, religious identity, and sustainable socio-economic development. This study examines the organizational mechanisms for the development of pilgrimage tourism in Uzbekistan, a country with rich spiritual and historical heritage rooted in Islamic civilization. The research adopts a qualitative and analytical approach based on the review of policy documents, international reports, and academic literature related to tourism governance and pilgrimage tourism management. The findings indicate that while Uzbekistan has made notable progress in institutional regulation, infrastructure development, and destination promotion, significant challenges remain in inter-agency coordination, service quality management, regional infrastructure balance, and stakeholder engagement. In particular, limited involvement of local communities and insufficient specialization in pilgrimage-related services constrain the sustainability and competitiveness of the sector. The study concludes that the effective development of pilgrimage tourism requires an integrated organizational model that combines strong state coordination with active participation of private sector actors and local communities, enhanced service quality, and targeted international marketing. The results contribute to the academic discourse on pilgrimage tourism governance and provide practical insights for policymakers aiming to strengthen pilgrimage tourism as a strategic direction of national tourism development.