Assessing readiness and breaking barriers to tourism digitalization: a case study of Kazakhstan

Abstract

This study aims to highlight the challenges and most pressing issues in the digitization of the tourism industry in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The primary goal of study is to examine the primary challenges encountered throughout the process of digital transformation in sector and determine strategies to effectively address them. The study utilizes comparative analysis and expert assessment to uncover the limited digitization of tourism firms in comparison to more advanced nations, the absence of high-quality digital infrastructure in rural areas, and insufficient degree of digital literacy among industry participants. The authors paid special attention to considering the existing state of tourism digital technologies, revealing barriers to their implementation and assessing impact on the tourism development. Several central aspects have been identified: infrastructure-type problems, lack of qualified specialists, problems of cybersecurity and protection of information various types, need to adapt the country’s legislative framework to new digitalization priorities. The authors’ analysis highlights the importance of developing a cohesive national digital strategy and securing financial resources to effectively use digital technology in tourism. The results of the study confirm the problem significance and the authors propose suggestions to develop infrastructure, increase level of digital literacy and stimulate investment.