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Kazakhstan has designated specific territories across multiple regions for potential gambling infrastructure development, with the government resolution entering into force on September 11, 2026. The move is intended to attract foreign investment and tourists while restricting access for citizens of Kazakhstan in certain new gambling zones.
Local administrations have established geographic boundaries for these potential zones, which include locations in the East Kazakhstan region, the Zhetysu region, and the Mangystau coast. The designation of these geographic boundaries does not grant automatic authorization for construction. The investors and builders would have to secure all the required permits for their construction projects.
Designated Territories Across Regions
In the East Kazakhstan district, 2 territories were selected in the Markakol district. As for the Zhetysu district, there is one territory which is set up near Lake Alakol in the area of Akshi, where casinos, gaming parlors, betting clubs, and totalisators can be run.
Moreover, 2 territories were set up on the Caspian coast in the Mangystau district. The locations cover inland and coastal areas, with the Zhetysu site near Lake Alakol offering a resort-style setting for potential gambling operations.
The government has defined the geographic boundaries, but the actual development of gambling infrastructure will depend on investors securing the required permits and approvals.
Foreign-Only Access Model
In the case of the model developed in 2026, some gambling zones cannot be accessed by the people of Kazakhstan. In fact, the government has made use of the zones as a means to develop the resort infrastructure of the region and attract more tourists.
The foreign-only access model separates these zones from domestic gambling activity. The intention is to attract international visitors while limiting local participation in the designated areas.
The resolution does not specify which of the designated territories will operate under the foreign-only access model. The government has instead established the framework and geographic boundaries, with the access restrictions forming part of the overall strategy.
Permit Requirements Remain In Place
The designation of geographic boundaries does not itself authorize construction or operation of gambling facilities. Investors and developers must obtain regulatory, investment, and building permits before any projects can proceed.
The requirement ensures that the designated territories remain potential zones until the necessary approvals are secured. The government’s resolution sets the framework for development rather than granting immediate permission for gambling infrastructure.
The permit process will determine which projects move forward within the designated boundaries. The foreign-only access model and the geographic designations form part of the broader effort to attract foreign investment and tourism.
Regional Resort Strategy
The government’s approach links the new gambling zones to regional resort infrastructure and foreign tourism. The territory allocated in East Kazakhstan, Zhetysu, and Mangystau should serve to promote economic investments in those territories.
The idea of restricting access to foreigners only is seen as a method for attracting foreign guests to the territory while preventing locals from accessing it. The government considers the designated territories as an element of the larger policy of developing resorts and foreign investments.
This Resolution becomes effective from September 11, 2026, and fixes the geographical borders and access conditions. Investors and developers have to work within such conditions.
Next Steps For Development
Kazakhstan’s new gambling zones are now defined, with geographic boundaries set in East Kazakhstan, Zhetysu, and Mangystau. The foreign-only access model applies to certain new zones, while permit requirements remain in place for all potential developments.
The government’s resolution enters into force on September 11, 2026, marking the start of the new framework. Investors and developers must obtain regulatory, investment, and building permits before any gambling infrastructure can be constructed within the designated territories.
Source: Tribuna
