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Journal of Sistan and Baluchistan Studies

Journal of Sistan and Baluchistan Studies

Tourism Development and World Heritage Site Conservation Along the Tian-Shan Corridor of the Silk Road: Challenges and Opportunities for Kazakhstan

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Research Article

Authors
Ahmadreza Sheikhi 1
Sabirzhan Saidullayev 2
Abenova Yelena Anatolyevna 2
Roza Alimkhanova 3
Zaure Namazbayeva 2
Agustín Dorta Rodriguez 4
Adilbek Moldir Galymzhanqyzy 5
Brendan Duprey 6
Dauren Yersultanov 7
Bauyrzhan Pazylkhaiyr 8
Aizhan Adbanova 5
1 Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
2 Narxoz University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
3 Narxoz University, Almaty, Kazakhestan
4 Department of Sociology and Anthropology, University of La Laguna, 38200 La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
5 Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
6 Director, Sustainable Kazakhstan Research Institute and Associate Professor, Sustainable Development, Narxoz University, Almaty, Kazakhstan
7 Graduate Assistant, College of Education, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA
8 Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhestan
10.22034/jsbs.2026.549322.1109
Abstract
The Tian-Shan Corridor of the Silk Road, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2014, represents a critical intersection of cultural heritage and tourism development in Central Asia. For Kazakhstan, this designation presents both opportunities to position itself as a key player in Silk Road tourism and challenges in safeguarding fragile heritage sites amid increasing tourist flows. This article explores the dynamics between tourism development and heritage conservation along the Tian-Shan Corridor, with particular attention to Kazakhstan’s strategic role in leveraging its cultural assets while adhering to international conservation standards. Drawing on a review of policy documents, UNESCO guidelines, and regional tourism development strategies, the study highlights the tension between economic aspirations for tourism growth and the need to preserve the integrity and authenticity of heritage sites. The findings suggest that while Kazakhstan has prioritized tourism as a driver of economic diversification, limited institutional capacity, inadequate infrastructure, and uneven stakeholder collaboration hinder the effective integration of heritage management with tourism planning. At the same time, the corridor offers significant opportunities for cross-border cooperation, community based tourism initiatives, and the promotion of intangible cultural heritage that can enhance visitor experiences while distributing benefits more equitably. The article argues for a more balanced approach that aligns national tourism strategies with sustainable heritage conservation practices, emphasizing participatory governance, capacity building, and responsible visitor management. By situating Kazakhstan’s efforts within broader debates on heritage tourism along the Silk Road, this study contributes to understanding how emerging destinations can navigate the complex interplay of conservation and development. The paper concludes that the future of the Tian-Shan Corridor depends on Kazakhstan’s ability to transform challenges into opportunities through integrated policies that protect heritage while fostering sustainable tourism.
Keywords
Silk Road Tourism
World Heritage Conservation
Tian-Shan Corridor
Kazakhstan
Sustainable Tourism Development
Journal of Sistan and Baluchistan Studies

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 31 January 2026

  • Receive Date 25 September 2025
  • Revise Date 16 October 2025
  • Accept Date 31 January 2026
  • Publish Date 31 January 2026