A land of rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality at the heart of Central Asia
Tashkent
Uzbek
~35 million
UTC+5 (UZT)
Uzbekistan stands at the crossroads of ancient civilizations, with a history spanning over 2,500 years. The country was a key hub on the Great Silk Road, connecting East and West through trade and cultural exchange.
Home to some of the world's oldest cities, including Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, Uzbekistan preserves the legacy of conquerors and scholars like Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, and Amir Timur (Tamerlane).
The region has been a center of scientific advancement, with scholars like Abu Rayhan Biruni, Avicenna (Ibn Sina), and Al-Khwarizmi making groundbreaking contributions to mathematics, medicine, astronomy, and chemistry.
Uzbekistan is renowned for its stunning Islamic architecture, featuring intricate blue-tiled domes, minarets, and madrasas. The historic centers of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Traditional crafts flourish in Uzbekistan, including silk weaving, carpet making, ceramics, and gold embroidery. Each region has its distinctive styles and techniques passed down through generations.
Uzbek music features unique instruments like the dutar (two-stringed lute) and doira (frame drum). Traditional dances celebrate nature, harvests, and historical events with colorful costumes and expressive movements.
Uzbek cuisine is known for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and hearty dishes. Central to Uzbek culinary tradition is plov (pilaf), a savory rice dish cooked with meat, carrots, and spices, often prepared for special occasions and gatherings.
Other popular dishes include:
Uzbekistan has a strong tradition of scientific achievement dating back to the Islamic Golden Age. Today, the country continues to prioritize education and scientific advancement.
The country is home to numerous universities and research institutions, including the National University of Uzbekistan, Tashkent State Technical University, and the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan.
Uzbekistan has made significant investments in STEM education, with a particular focus on chemistry, mathematics, and engineering. The country regularly participates in international science olympiads and competitions.
Known as the 'Crossroads of Cultures,' Samarkand features the iconic Registan Square with its three magnificent madrasas and the stunning Shah-i-Zinda necropolis.
This ancient city boasts over 140 architectural monuments, including the Poi-Kalyan complex and the ancient trading domes that once bustled with silk road merchants.
A perfectly preserved walled city, Khiva's Itchan Kala (inner town) feels like stepping back in time with its mud-brick walls, minarets, and palaces.
The capital city blends Soviet-era architecture with modern developments and traditional Uzbek influences. Visit the Chorsu Bazaar and ride the ornate metro system.
Known for its fertile land and traditional silk production, the valley offers beautiful landscapes and insights into rural Uzbek life.
Once the world's fourth-largest lake, the Aral Sea is now largely a desert. It offers a sobering but important environmental lesson.
Uzbekistan has significantly simplified its visa policy in recent years. Citizens of many countries can visit visa-free for up to 30 days, while others can obtain e-visas online.
ARBIChO participants will receive special visa support through the organizing committee.
Tashkent International Airport is the main gateway to Uzbekistan, with connections to major international cities. The country also has an extensive rail network, including high-speed trains connecting major cities.
Within cities, taxis and ride-sharing services are affordable and convenient.
Uzbekistan offers a range of accommodation options, from international hotel chains to boutique hotels in historic buildings and traditional guesthouses. ARBIChO participants will be provided with accommodation information as part of the registration process.
The local currency is the Uzbekistani Som (UZS). Major credit cards are accepted in hotels and larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting markets or smaller towns. ATMs are widely available in major cities.
ARBIChO 2026 takes place in Nukus, the capital of the Republic of Karakalpakstan in the northwest of Uzbekistan. Most international teams arrive through Tashkent and continue to Nukus by air or rail.
The main route is an international flight to Tashkent, then Tashkent to Nukus. The flight takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes.
It is not promised that there will be "2 flights every day" for November yet, because airline schedules can change between August and November. Current data indicates roughly 2 flights per day overall, but Uzbekistan Airways has already published temporary schedule changes on this route for September and October, demonstrating that schedules can be adjusted.
A direct Almaty to Nukus flight is currently listed for 4 November 2026, and other November dates are also showing. Airline: Uzbekistan Airways.
Current route data also shows a direct connection, operated by Pobeda and Uzbekistan Airways, although frequency is limited. The dates for November should be checked.
There is also a direct connection in the current 2026 schedule data. Current listings show the route operating on certain dates, including 1 and 8 November 2026, which is directly relevant to the Olympiad dates.
Uzbekistan Railways runs passenger trains between Tashkent and Nukus. The journey is roughly 16 hours, depending on the particular service. For dates, check the official railway timetable when booking, where tickets can also be bought online.
The price can vary according to train, carriage and booking date, approximately 12 to 50 US dollars depending on the train and class; fares should be checked at the time of booking.
There are seasonal Almaty to Urgench flights operated by FlyArystan. The airline currently states that these operate on Thursdays and Sundays from 3 September through 15 November 2026.
Urgench is relatively close to Nukus compared with Tashkent, so someone travelling from Kazakhstan could potentially do Almaty to Urgench to Nukus.
Nukus sits on the A-380 highway, part of the international E-40 corridor, and long-distance buses connect it with Tashkent.
Travelling by car or bus is a long overland journey, so most teams will find air or rail more practical.
Participants travel to Nukus at their own arrangement. The Organizing Committee does not provide transfer from other regions of Uzbekistan to Nukus.
Book your onward flight or train to Nukus in advance, together with your international travel.
For most international participants, we recommend flying to Tashkent and connecting to Nukus by domestic flight. Participants from Kazakhstan and Russia should also check whether a direct flight to Nukus is available for their specific travel dates.
For November 2026, all flight schedules should be reconfirmed closer to the event, as airlines may make seasonal or operational changes.