Uzbekistan

Tipping

• Tipping is becoming more common in tourist areas, especially in higher
• end restaurants and hotels (5
• 10% is appreciated if not already included)
• For tour guides and drivers, a tip of 5
• 10 USD per day is customary if services were good
• For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is sufficient
• For porters, a small amount (e
• g
• , 1
• 2 USD) is appropriate

Money & Payments

• ATMs are becoming more available in cities, but cash is still dominant, especially in rural areas
• Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and some larger stores in Tashkent and Samarkand, but cash is preferred elsewhere
• It's advisable to bring enough cash (USD or Euros) to exchange, especially for smaller purchases and outside major cities
• There is no official black market for cash, but unofficial money changers might offer slightly better rates, though it's safer to use official exchange offices or banks

Cultural Norms

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
• Women should cover their heads, shoulders, and knees
• Men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves
• Public displays of affection are not common and can be considered inappropriate
• When entering a home or mosque, remove your shoes
• When sitting, avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards people or religious objects
• It is customary to greet elders first
• Accept offered tea or food; refusing it outright can be considered rude
• When eating, it's common to share dishes and eat with your right hand

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Homosexuality is illegal for men in Uzbekistan, with punishments including imprisonment. There are no legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

• Legal drinking age is 20
• Drug laws are very strict, and penalties for drug offenses, even for small amounts, are severe and include long prison sentences
• Public consumption of alcohol is generally frowned upon outside of designated areas

Special Laws

• Photography of government buildings, military installations, or sensitive infrastructure is prohibited and can lead to issues
• A valid visa is required for most foreign travelers unless from a visa
• free country
• Always carry your passport and visa (or a copy) with you
• Registering with the local authorities within 72 hours of arrival is mandatory for most foreign visitors, usually handled by your accommodation