Tashkent to Kuala Lumpur: A New Gateway for Travel

From 15 October 2025, Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, will enjoy a new direct air connection to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s bustling international hub. This direct flight will offer passengers the convenience of travel between Central Asia and Southeast Asia, two regions with growing economic and cultural significance. The service, which will run three times a week, is set to bolster travel opportunities for both leisure and business travelers, allowing for smoother access between these key regions. This new route is expected to enhance the growing demand for international travel and expand connections within the Asia-Pacific region.

Flight Service Details and Schedules

The new direct service between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur will operate three times weekly, on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Passengers will board flight D7123 in Tashkent at 19:30, arriving in Kuala Lumpur the following morning at 06:10. The return flight, D7122, will depart Kuala Lumpur at 13:25 and arrive back in Tashkent at 18:15. This schedule has been carefully designed to meet the increasing travel demand between Uzbekistan and Malaysia and is tailored to accommodate both tourist and business travelers.

The flight’s convenience extends beyond the two cities it directly connects. Uzbek travelers, for example, will gain better access to Kuala Lumpur’s expansive flight network, which links to more than 130 destinations throughout Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Australia. Similarly, travelers from Southeast Asia will find the Central Asian market more accessible than ever before, helping to encourage a two-way exchange of culture, ideas, and business.

Broader Economic and Cultural Impact

The introduction of this new air route between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur reflects a larger trend in the global travel industry, emphasizing affordable, direct connections between major regions. As both Central Asia and Southeast Asia grow in importance, this flight will create more opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

For Uzbekistan, the introduction of this direct flight is expected to stimulate the tourism industry, which has become a major focus of the country’s economic diversification efforts. Uzbekistan’s tourism targets include welcoming 15.8 million international visitors in 2025. With the ease of access provided by the direct flights to Kuala Lumpur, travelers will now find it easier to visit Uzbekistan’s historic landmarks, including its ancient cities along the Silk Road.

In contrast, Malaysia is hoping that the new flight will contribute to its Visit Malaysia Year 2026 initiative, which aims to attract a greater influx of international tourists. The newly established connection between the two countries is expected to support these goals, as it gives both Malaysians and tourists from Southeast Asia the chance to explore Uzbekistan’s rich history, while also allowing Uzbek nationals to travel to Malaysia for business and tourism purposes.

Strengthening Regional Connectivity

This new route is a key part of AirAsia X’s strategy to expand its footprint in Central Asia, building on its previous successes in places like Almaty, Kazakhstan. The flight to Tashkent is a clear sign that the airline sees Central Asia as an increasingly important market for international travel. With Uzbekistan’s rising business and tourism sectors, the direct flight will facilitate not just the movement of people, but also goods, thus enhancing the economic relationship between Uzbekistan and the rest of the Asia-Pacific.

By offering this new direct connection, AirAsia X hopes to bridge the gap between Central Asia and the rest of the world, encouraging greater cooperation, interaction, and mutual understanding between these culturally distinct yet economically connected regions. This route will ultimately strengthen Tashkent’s position as a growing travel hub within Central Asia.

Special Promotions and Fare Details

To celebrate the launch of this new direct route, the airline has announced a special promotion for passengers booking one-way flights from Tashkent to Kuala Lumpur. Fares for this new service will start at UZS 2,719,000 (around USD 199), including taxes and fees. This promotion is valid for travel between 15 October and 15 December 2025, with bookings needing to be made by 3 August 2025 to qualify for the offer. Travelers will also be able to bring 7KG of cabin luggage, making it easier for them to carry essential items on their journey.

Booking can be done through the airline’s official website or through the official Uzbek sales agent, ensuring that passengers can easily secure their tickets and enjoy the launch discounts.

Tashkent: The Gateway to Central Asia

Tashkent is not just the capital of Uzbekistan, but also the heart of Central Asia’s economic and cultural landscape. As the largest city in the region, it serves as the key hub for trade, politics, and tourism in the country. Its rich history, mixed with modern urban development, makes it an exciting destination for travelers interested in exploring a city that beautifully blends the ancient and the contemporary. Tashkent International Airport (TAS) serves as the primary gateway for international travelers visiting Uzbekistan, making it a critical point for those entering the country.

Why Tashkent Should Be on the Travel Radar

Visitors to Tashkent are often drawn to its rich cultural heritage and historic landmarks. Amir Timur Square, Chorsu Bazaar, and the Hazrat Imam Complex are just a few of the must-see locations that highlight Uzbekistan’s deep-rooted traditions and architectural beauty. Travelers can also explore Tashkent’s metro system, one of the most efficient and aesthetically pleasing in the world, as well as the Navoi Opera & Ballet Theatre, which is known for its classical performances.

Tashkent also offers a modern side, with bustling cafes, vibrant markets, and the growing international presence in the city’s business and cultural scenes.

Ideal Times to Visit Tashkent

For the best experience, spring (from April to June) and autumn (from September to November) are the most favorable times to visit Tashkent. During these months, temperatures hover between 20°C and 30°C, creating an ideal climate for sightseeing and outdoor exploration. Spring is especially beautiful with flowers blooming everywhere, while autumn offers cool, breezy weather—perfect for a walk through the parks or a visit to the bustling markets.

Tashkent’s Cultural Scene and Annual Events

Tashkent is also a hub for cultural events throughout the year, making it an attractive destination for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of the country’s customs and traditions. Festivals such as the Navruz Festival, which celebrates the Persian New Year, showcase traditional Uzbek music, dance, and customs. Similarly, the Silk and Spices Festival and the Tashkent International Film Festival bring global and regional cultural expressions to the forefront, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in local and international arts.

Top attractions in the city include Independence Square, the Museum of Applied Arts, and the Chorsu Bazaar, which is one of the most famous markets in Central Asia. At the bazaar, travelers can shop for everything from traditional crafts to street food, giving them a taste of the authentic Uzbek experience.

Accommodation and Dining in Tashkent

For those staying in Tashkent, the city offers a wide range of accommodations to suit various budgets. From more affordable options like Samir Hotel to luxurious stays at places such as Radisson Blu Tashkent and LOTTE City Hotel Tashkent Palace, visitors are bound to find something that meets their preferences.

For food, Tashkent boasts a variety of dining choices where visitors can indulge in traditional Uzbek cuisine. Restaurants like Central Asian Plov Center and Chaykhona 21 specialize in plov (Uzbek pilaf) and grilled dishes like kebabs. For a more modern culinary experience, Art Café Caravan offers a blend of local and international flavors, making it a great spot for those looking to try something different.

Long-Term Effects on Regional and Global Travel

The launch of this direct flight route between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur is expected to have wide-reaching effects on the global travel industry. It not only improves accessibility for both regions but also facilitates the movement of people, ideas, and goods, enhancing trade relationships and tourism. The ease of travel will likely stimulate more economic activity in both Central Asia and Southeast Asia, as businesses are now able to reach new markets with less effort.

This new flight connection also signals a broader trend in global aviation—more affordable, direct flight routes are increasingly becoming a reality as airlines tap into growing travel markets in regions previously underserved by international carriers. The impact of this new route will ripple across the travel industry, making both Uzbekistan and Malaysia more attractive to travelers from around the world.

By easing the complexities of travel between these two regions, this new service will help foster closer cultural exchange, tourism growth, and greater business collaboration. This route is a step toward making travel between Central Asia and Southeast Asia.