Plans are underway to implement numerous reforms in Tashkent to foster the development of the city’s night economy. Among these is the proposal to transition public transportation into a 24/7 operation. The Agency for Strategic Reforms shared this through its information service.

The agency has studied international practices in the night economy from countries such as the UK, Thailand, the USA, the UAE, and Australia, evaluating the potential for adapting these strategies to Uzbekistan.

According to 2023 figures, annual revenues from the night economy amounted to $44 billion in London, $35 billion in New York, $29 billion in Dubai, $10 billion in Bangkok, and $3.8 billion in Sydney.

"The measures needed as a first step to develop Tashkent's night economy are being overlooked, with efforts currently limited to transferring a few streets into gastronomic zones," the statement said.

To address this, the Agency for Strategic Reforms has proposed the following initiatives to enhance the night economy in Uzbekistan:

• Formation of a working group dedicated to the development of the night economy and tourism, starting February 1, 2025;

• Extended operation hours for entertainment venues, ensuring they operate 24/7 every Friday and Saturday, and eliminating restrictions on nighttime business activities;

• Identification of tourism-attractive zones within Tashkent and the creation of specific areas for nighttime activities;

• Transitioning public transportation services (buses, trams, and metro) to 24-hour operation in cities targeted for night economy development;

• Development of a "Night Tashkent" digital platform to provide information on nighttime activities, public transportation routes, and special discounts;

• Modernization of designated areas, enhancing street lighting systems and creating additional conveniences for residents and tourists to support the night economy.

A draft presidential decree titled 'On Measures for the Further Development of the Night Economy in Uzbekistan' and a draft law aimed at reforming procedures for night economy development and license issuance are in the planning stages.