<![CDATA[General Background: Tourism is a crucial driver of economic growth, particularly in emerging destinations. Specific Background: The Kashkadarya region of Uzbekistan has significant potential for safari tourism, yet infrastructure gaps and sustainability challenges persist. Knowledge Gap: Despite increased tourist arrivals and revenue, there is limited research on the socio-economic impact of tourism and strategies for sustainable development in Kashkadarya. Aims: This study evaluates the socio-economic impact of tourism and explores the development potential of safari tourism in the region. Results: A mixed-methods approach, including statistical analysis (2017–2024), interviews with stakeholders, and field surveys of 1,564 tourism sites, revealed a 65% rise in tourist arrivals (2.54 million in 2024) and a tenfold increase in foreign currency revenue ($105.8 million). However, infrastructure disparities, limited eco-friendly transport, and uneven lodging distribution remain challenges. Novelty: The study proposes a framework integrating infrastructure modernization, eco-innovation, and community engagement to enhance sustainable tourism development. Implications: Findings highlight the need for equitable infrastructure investment, environmental sustainability, and stakeholder collaboration to position Kashkadarya as a leading safari tourism destination in Central Asia. Future research should explore agro-tourism and digital nomadism to further diversify the regional tourism economy. Highlights: Issue: Tourism growth in Kashkadarya faces infrastructure and sustainability challenges. Findings: Tourist arrivals +65%, revenue ×10, but infrastructure gaps persist. Solution: Modernization, eco-innovation, and community engagement for sustainable tourism. Keywords: Safari tourism, Kashkadarya region, tourism infrastructure, socio-economic development, sustainable tourism, Uzbekistan]]>
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