Kazakhstan Bets Big on Tourism with New Foreign-Only Casino Zones

The move significantly expands the current framework, which until now has been limited to two designated areas—Kapchagay and Burabay.

Under the new legislation, potential casino zones may be established in the Mangystau, Zhetysu, Almaty, and East Kazakhstan regions. Final decisions on the exact locations will be made by local executive authorities, known as akimats, giving regions flexibility to tailor development plans to their economic strategies.

A key feature of the reform is a strict access policy: only foreign visitors and individuals working within the casinos will be allowed to enter these new establishments. This marks a shift from the current system, where both Kazakh citizens and foreign players can access casinos in existing zones. The change signals a clear intent to position Kazakhstan as a regional hub for international gaming tourism while limiting domestic participation.

The initiative builds on discussions that began in late 2025, when Minister of Tourism and Sports Yerbol Myrzabosynov outlined the potential for expanding gambling zones. According to government estimates, each new casino could generate between KZT 2 billion and KZT 3 billion ($4 million to $6 million) in annual tax revenue, while also creating around 500 jobs.

Officials emphasize that the expansion will be carefully managed. Deputy Amangeldy Yesbay noted that clearly defined geographic boundaries and environmental safeguards will be implemented to ensure sustainable development and protect Kazakhstan’s natural and cultural heritage. Additionally, gambling venues will now be officially recognized as standalone tourism facilities, reinforcing their role in the broader travel sector.

At the same time, authorities are intensifying efforts to combat illegal gambling. In a recent operation, law enforcement dismantled an unauthorized online network reportedly generating over KZT 3.1 billion. The group is accused of running and promoting illegal casinos, sports betting, and esports platforms, offering more than 11,000 gambling products without proper licensing.

Together, these measures reflect Kazakhstan’s dual strategy: expanding its legal gambling market while cracking down on illicit activity.