Abstract
Persistent regional socio-economic disparities hinder balanced tourism development, especially where investment and infrastructure remain unevenly distributed. This study examines whether tourism-oriented Special Economic Zones (SEZs) can reduce these disparities in Kazakhstan by aligning zone designation with regional tourism and recreational potential. Employing a multi-criteria assessment framework, the research aggregates natural and cultural resources, infrastructure, service capacity, and accessibility into a composite tourism potential index. This index classifies regions and guides SEZ prioritization. Findings reveal significant spatial heterogeneity: regions with very strong or strong tourism potential qualify as immediate SEZ candidates, while neutral, weak, and very weak regions require staged interventions and baseline investments before SEZ deployment becomes viable. From a policy standpoint, evidence-based, differentiated SEZ strategies can boost competitiveness, generate employment, and promote inclusive regional development. The assessment method provides a transferable tool for policymakers in other destinations aiming to align tourism growth with broader socio-economic goals.