Abstract:
The underdevelopment of tourism infrastructure remains a critical barrier to the growth
of the tourism sector in both the capital and regional areas. This article examines the concept
and structure of tourism infrastructure, synthesizes methodological approaches for its evaluation,
and identifies the strengths and limitations of these approaches. The study introduces a novel
methodology for assessing the development of tourism infrastructure in the capital city. Based on
the assessment, the city’s regions are categorized into four levels of infrastructure development:
high, above average, average, and below average. The findings highlight the key factors driving
tourism development and the obstacles limiting infrastructure progress, while also proposing strategic
directions for its enhancement. Achieving optimal levels of infrastructure provision is identified as a
crucial condition for advancing the tourism sector. The development of tourism infrastructure should
be prioritized in regional economic policy. In line with the state’s “Concept for the Development
of the Tourism Industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2023–2029”, this study emphasizes the
need for a streamlined and precise classification of tourism infrastructure components based on a
comprehensive framework. The evaluation is conducted using an integrated indicator that captures
the development level of key elements: accommodation infrastructure, international event venues,
and access to leisure and entertainment. Additionally, the article provides a comparative analysis of
the current state of tourism infrastructure relative to the early stages of the capital’s development and
tracks the dynamics of tourism indicators from 2010 to 2024. Several interrelated challenges affecting
infrastructure growth have been identified. Notably, the study reveals that hosting international
events and forums has significantly boosted inbound tourism compared to regional averages in
Kazakhstan, although it has also constrained the potential for tourism business growth in other
regions. The practical insights derived from this study offer a comprehensive understanding of the
state of tourism infrastructure in Astana, which can inform future research and policy development
for tourism infrastructure in major urban areas.
