Uzbekistan

Quick Overview

Capital: Tashkent
Population: 32.39 million
Official languages: Uzbeck & Turkish
Time zone: Uzbekistan Time (UZT)
Emergency #: 103
Vaccinations required: No
Risk of malaria: No
Climate Info

Uzbekistan: Travel Health Information

Uzbekistan is known for its diverse culture and history, from post-Soviet era architecture, to some of the world’s oldest mosques. Travellers can see it all first-hand along Uzbekistan’s Silk Road.

Healthcare

The standards for patient care and medical services in Uzbekistan may differ from your home country. Uzbekistan has a public healthcare system and a small private sector. Healthcare has improved in recent years, but adequate healthcare is still limited throughout the country. Cities in Uzbekistan are serviced by larger polyclinics, while rural areas are serviced by regional hospitals.

In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals in Uzbekistan typically require upfront payment in cash, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Serious medical emergencies may require medical evacuation to Western Europe. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance, including evacuation. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Uzbekistan.

Pharmacies and medications

Pharmacies in Uzbekistan are privately owned and operated, so medication availability can be limited. Prescriptions for medicines must be obtained from a doctor in most cases.

If you are travelling with medication, check with Uzbekistan’s embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. If your medication is a psychotropic or narcotic, you can review Uzbekistan’s regulations on the International Narcotics Control Board. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.

Road safety

Road conditions in Uzbekistan can vary by region. Roads in rural areas may be in poor condition but are typically better maintained in urban centres. Helmets are required for motorcycle drivers and passengers.


  • Government of Canada. Travel Advisory: Uzbekistan. Government of Canada. (2018).
  • World Health Organization. Health Systems in Transition: Uzbekistan. World Health Organization. (2014).
  • Global Health Observatory. Uzbekistan: Road Safety. World Health Organization. (2015).
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