Money and Payments in Uzbekistan

Not long ago, paying in Uzbekistan meant carrying stacks of banknotes and finding an unofficial exchange rate. That has changed: the currency is freely exchanged at official rates, ATMs are common in cities, and card terminals have spread. Still, a smart mix of cash and cards makes the trip smoother.

The currency

The national currency is the Uzbek som (UZS). Banknotes come in several denominations, and because the numbers are large, a meal or a taxi can cost what looks like a big figure. Take a moment to understand the notes when you first get them, and keep larger and smaller denominations separate.

Some hotels and tour services quote prices in US dollars or euros, but everyday spending in shops, restaurants and bazaars is in som.

Cards

International Visa and Mastercard cards are accepted in:

• most mid-range and upscale hotels;
• many restaurants and cafes in Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara;
• supermarkets, malls and larger shops;
• some museum ticket offices and souvenir shops.

Acceptance is weaker in small towns, family guesthouses, bazaars, rural areas and small craft workshops. Terminals occasionally fail to process foreign cards even where cards are generally accepted, so never rely on a card alone. Inform your bank about your travel to avoid blocks, and check your foreign transaction fees.

ATMs

ATMs are widely available in large cities, at banks, hotels, malls and airports. Some dispense only som, some also dollars. Not every ATM accepts every international card, so if one fails, try another bank. Withdrawal limits per transaction may be modest. In small towns and rural areas, ATMs are fewer, so withdraw before heading out.

Exchanging money

Exchange money only at banks, official exchange offices and desks at hotels and airports. Rates are set officially and differences between outlets are small. Bring clean, undamaged US dollar or euro banknotes; worn, torn or very old notes may be refused. Keep exchange receipts.

Street money changers no longer offer better rates and carry the risk of counterfeit notes or short-changing. Avoid them.

How much cash to carry

A good approach is to carry enough som for a day or two of small purchases: snacks, water, bazaar shopping, entrance fees, tips and taxis. Top up from ATMs or exchange offices as you go. On our programs, accommodation, transport, guides and listed meals are prepaid, so cash is mainly for personal spending.

Uzbekistan has rules on declaring foreign currency above a certain amount when entering and leaving. Check the current threshold before travelling with large sums; see our Uzbekistan visa guide for entry formalities.

Bargaining

Bargaining is normal and expected at bazaars and craft stalls. Start by asking the price, offer less, and settle somewhere in between. Stay friendly; it is a conversation, not a contest. Workshops and shops with price tags usually have fixed or near-fixed prices. Our crafts guide has more buying tips.

Tipping

• Restaurants: some add a service charge, shown on the bill. If not, rounding up or leaving around 5 to 10 percent for good service is appreciated.
• Guides and drivers: a tip at the end of the tour is customary if you were happy with the service.
• Hotel staff and porters: small tips are welcome.
• Taxis: not expected; rounding up is fine.

Mobile payments and apps

Local payment apps are widely used by residents but often require a local bank card. Ride-hailing apps work in cities and may accept international cards or cash. For connectivity, see SIM cards and internet in Uzbekistan.

Information checked in October 2026; entry rules change, so confirm with our team or the official embassy website before you travel.

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