What to do and see in Abu Dhabi’s new twin cities, Bishkek

Abu Dhabi and Kyrgyzstan’s capital Bishkek signed a twinning agreement as Develop economic, trade, cultural and tourism links between the two cities.

capital of kyrgyzstan It is located in the Chuhe Valley of the Tianshan Mountains. It’s the largest city in Kyrgyzstan, but with a population of just under 1.1 million, it’s small enough to explore over a long weekend. The flight time of less than 4 hours from the UAE also makes it ideal for short trips.

Located on a grid of wide boulevards and plenty of green space, Bishkek is underrated as a tourist and cultural destination. Soviet-era apartment blocks are juxtaposed with marble-fronted buildings, and orchards are flanked by irrigation canals. The southern part of this Central Asian city was once a stop for caravans on the Silk Road, and snow-capped mountains can be seen everywhere.

Kyrgyzstan announces plans as part of strengthening ties with UAE one of the peaks named it After UAE Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

What to see and do in Bishkek

Ala-Too is Bishkek’s largest square and its cultural center. It was built in 1984 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Kyrgyz Soviet Republic.

In 2003, a magnificent statue of Lenin was located at its center, and in 2011 it was replaced by a 10-meter-high statue of the national hero Manas to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Kyrgyzstan’s independence.

There is also a monument in the area with a huge Kyrgyzstan flag, permanently guarded by soldiers. The guard changes every two hours in summer and every hour in winter.

Ala-Too is often the site of concerts, dance performances, festivals and parades, and in the evenings, merchants sell everything.

Located on the square is the State Historical Museum, formerly known as the Lenin Museum. It is one of the largest exhibits in Central Asia, with exhibits ranging from Bronze Age petroglyphs and household items, to jewelry, ancient coins and ethnographic objects of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Around the corner is Dubovy or Oak, Park. In addition to the majestic tree that bears its name, the green space features sculptural benches and more than 200 pieces of public art and monuments dating back to the Soviet era.

Osh Bazaar is located on the western outskirts of Bishkek, but is easily accessible by public transport or a 20-minute walk from the city center. The market draws locals to buy meat, dairy, fruit, vegetables and other essentials, but also clothing, colorful fabrics, furniture, dried fruit, nuts, spices and an unlimited supply of other souvenirs. Stop for some local delicacies, including salads, cheeses and yogurt.

Bishkek has a thriving arts scene with many interesting galleries. Founded by local creatives Momunbek Akmatkulov and Zhyldyz Oruzbayeva, Gallery M specializes in contemporary fundamental arts including painting, graphics, sculpture and photography.

Meanwhile, Kyrgyzstan embroidery, evocative paintings and handmade felt rugs are on display at the National Gallery.

where to live

Bishkek is home to a handful of hotels of international brands, including Novotel, Sheraton and Hyatt. Orion Hotel Bishkek is another good option, with rooms starting from Dh439 per night.

reach there

Flydubai flies daily to Bishkek Manas International Airport with round-trip economy fares from Dh1,955. Emirates also flies to the destination with fares from Dh3,656. Air Arabia operates flights from Sharjah to Bishkek every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday with return flights from Dh1,850.

Entry Requirements

Kyrgyzstan reintroduced visas on arrival in May, and anyone with a valid UAE residence visa is now eligible. There are currently no restrictions related to Covid-19.

Updated: 11/2/2022 3:37AM