IPAF 2026

The Republic of Kazakhstan

The Republic of Kazakhstan is the largest state in Central Asia and the ninth largest country in the world by land area. Due to its strategic location between Europe and Asia, Kazakhstan serves as a vital transport, logistics, investment, and economic hub of Eurasia. The country actively develops international cooperation, implements large-scale infrastructure projects, and creates favorable conditions to attract foreign investment. Kazakhstan is a member of the United Nations (UN), the World Trade Organization (WTO), the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), and other international organizations. Known for its hospitality, rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and modern economy, Kazakhstan is an attractive destination for business, tourism, and international events.

Astana

Astana is the capital of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the country’s modern political, administrative, and business center. Located in the heart of Eurasia, the capital is one of Central Asia’s leading venues for international forums, summits, conferences, and official meetings. The city is characterized by modern architecture, high safety standards, well-developed transport infrastructure, and a wide selection of international hotels. With extensive experience in hosting major international events, Astana annually welcomes thousands of representatives from government agencies, international organizations, businesses, and the expert community.

Time Zone

UTC +5 — Standard Time Zone: UTC +5 | A single time zone, UTC+5, is observed throughout the entire territory of Kazakhstan.

August provides an exceptionally favorable summer climate in Astana.

Average temperature:

• Daytime high: +24°C to +30°C (75°F – 86°F)
• Nighttime low: +14°C to +18°C (57°F – 64°F)

The weather is predominantly sunny and dry. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for the evenings.

Currency

The official currency of the Republic of Kazakhstan is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT).

Currency exchange is available at:

• Airports;
• Banks;
• Authorized exchange offices.

Exchange Rates

Official Exchange Rates of the National Bank of Kazakhstan as of 18.09.2026

Updated: 18.09.2026, 08:00

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

1 CNY = 66.28 KZT

▼ -0.05

Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

1000 IDR = 25.07 KZT

▼ -0.10

South Korean Won (KRW)

100 KRW = 32.12 KZT

▼ -0.43

Mongolian Tugrik (MNT)

100 MNT = 12.36 KZT

▼ -0.01

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

1 MYR = 108.54 KZT

▼ -0.43

Thai Baht (THB)

1 THB = 13.34 KZT

▼ -0.04

US Dollar (USD)

1 USD = 444.58 KZT

▼ -0.30

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

1000 VND = 17.09 KZT

▼ -0.02

Data Provided by the National Bank of the Republic of Kazakhstan

International credit and debit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and UnionPay, are widely accepted in all major hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. Contactless payment methods are also broadly supported.

Languages

State Language: Kazakh

Official Language: Russian (used officially alongside the state language)

English: Widely spoken by staff in most hotels, airports, restaurants, and tourist locations.

Astana boasts a modern transportation network

The following transportation options are available to event participants:

• Astana International Airport
• City bus routes
• Official taxi services
• Ride-hailing apps
• Car rental services (Yandex Go, Uber)

Transit time from NQZ International Terminal to the Astana Congress Center spans approximately 20–30 minutes under normal traffic protocols.

During your stay in Astana, we highly recommend visiting:

• Baiterek Monument — one of the main symbols of the capital
• National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan
• Palace of Peace and Reconciliation (also known as the Pyramid)
• Hazret Sultan Mosque
• Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center
• Nurzhol Boulevard
• Central Park
• Astana Opera (State Opera and Ballet Theatre)

Baiterek Monument

National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Palace of Peace and Reconciliation (also known as the Pyramid)

Hazret Sultan Mosque

Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center

Nurzhol Boulevard

Central Park

Astana Opera (State Opera and Ballet Theatre)

Citizens of a number of states enjoy a visa-free entry regime to the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Participants from countries subject to visa requirements are strongly advised to check the current regulations in advance and obtain a visa prior to their travel.

If necessary, the IPAF Organizing Committee can provide an official invitation letter to facilitate the visa application process.

Centralized Unified Emergency Command Center: 112 (Multi-lingual dispatch)

Operational sub-stations:

• Fire Safety & Rescue: 101
• Civil Security & Police: 102
• Emergency Medical Dispatch / Ambulance: 103

Astana offers reliable 4G and 5G mobile network coverage.

Major mobile operators include:

• Beeline Kazakhstan
• Kcell
• Tele2/Altel

SIM cards can be purchased at the airport, mobile operator stores, and major shopping malls upon presentation of a passport. Complimentary Wi-Fi is also widely available in hotels, cafes, and at the summit venue.

You can also purchase an eSIM in advance, for example from Airalo, by following the link below:

• Airport & Transport: Astana International Airport is located approximately 15 km from the Congress Center. It is recommended to use official taxi services or ride-hailing apps.

• ATMs: ATMs are widely available at the airport, hotels, shopping centers, and banks.
• Drinking Water: Tap water meets safety standards; however, using bottled water for drinking is highly recommended.
• Payments: Most service establishments accept credit cards and contactless payments.
• Smoking Policy: Smoking is permitted only in designated areas.
• Conduct: Participants are advised to follow standard business etiquette and respect local traditions in public areas.