The Kazakh Minister of Tourism and Sports, Yerbol Myrzabossynov, has announced plans for two new casinos to open next year in the Almaty and Mangistau regions.
According to Myrzabossynov, work is currently underway with local executive authorities to identify specific land plots for new gambling zones. Negotiations with potential investors are also underway. The facilities will be developed entirely through private investment.
In February, President Tokayev signed a law establishing four new gambling zones in the country. In addition to the existing zones in Kapchagay and Burabay, new gambling areas may be created in the Mangystau, Zhetysu, Almaty and East Kazakhstan regions.
According to Myrzabosynov, each new casino is expected to generate between KZT 2bn and KZT 3 bn ($4m–$6m) in annual tax revenue and create approximately 500 jobs.
Meanwhile, Deputy Amangeldy Yesbay clarified that clearly defining the boundaries of gambling zones and introducing environmental restrictions will ensure the sector's systematic development without harming natural and cultural heritage.
Yesbay announced that gambling establishments will receive legal status as independent tourism facilities.
Recently, the country introduced updated rules restricting access to casinos, slot machine halls and betting venues in several regions to foreign nationals only. The changes took effect on 17 May. New gambling zones will also restrict access to foreigners only.
Officials said they do not expect the expansion to significantly increase gambling addiction among local residents. They argue the remote locations and foreign-only rules will keep domestic exposure low, even as tourism infrastructure expands.
Under Government Resolution No. 167, bookmakers and totalisators are required to transfer 3.3% of each accepted bet, with the regulation taking effect on 27 March 2026
