In 2026, the city of Aktau was officially designated the Tourism Capital of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO). The announcement was made on 29 April during the 9th Meeting of the ECO High-Level Experts Group on Tourism.

Held from 27 to 29 April, the meeting focused on tourism development, expanding international cooperation, creating cross-border tourism routes, attracting investment, and promoting the tourism potential of ECO member states.

This designation is expected to strengthen Aktau's international tourism profile, attract new investment, boost visitor numbers, and support the development of cross-border tourism initiatives.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mangystau-tourism/press/news/details/1270092?lang=ru