Abstract. This study examines how Uzbekistan can adopt global smart tourism practices to create innovative, sustainable, and data-driven destinations in Central Asia. Using a comparative qualitative approach, the research examines three leading international smart destinations—Barcelona, Singapore, and Dubai—to identify lessons relevant to Uzbekistan’s tourism transformation under the “Digital Uzbekistan 2030” strategy. Data were collected from official reports, international databases, and government portals such as UNWTO, OECD, and Smart Dubai, focusing on technology use, governance models, sustainability, and visitor experience (UNWTO, 2023; OECD, 2024). The findings reveal that successful smart destinations rely on integrated digital infrastructure, cross-sector collaboration, and community participation. Uzbekistan has made progress with initiatives such as e-visas, digital tourism platforms, and heritage conservation projects but still faces challenges in infrastructure development, data integration, and digital literacy (State Committee for Tourism, 2024). The study recommends developing a national smart tourism strategy, expanding digital connectivity in rural areas, and adopting sustainable innovation models inspired by global best practices. This research contributes by adapting international smart destination frameworks to the Central Asian context and offering practical strategies that support Uzbekistan’s goal of becoming a regional leader in smart and sustainable tourism.