Learning the Social Customs of Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan is a large, landlocked country in Central Asia. Its population is about half ethnically Kazakh, about 30% Russian, and then there are also Ukrainians, Uzbeks, Germans and Tatars. The north of the country is mostly Kazakh, while the south is mostly Russian and Ukrainian. There has been a nationalist revival movement in Kazakhstan, as many of the street names have been turned into their historic names, and Kazakh people are encouraged to be prolific to populate the country.

The two major religions are Islam and Russian Orthodox. Kazakhstan is bilingual; Kazakh is spoken by about 65% of the people there, and is noted as the “state” language, while Russian is spoken by almost everyone and is used in business, and is noted as the “official” language.

When talking to or about someone from Kazakhstan, it is important to know that “Kazakh” refers to the ethnic group, but “Kazakhstani” means anyone that lives in the country. In ancient Turkish, the word “Kazakh” translates as “independent nomad,” and this group of people has traditionally been nomadic and led by tribes. People still practice arranged marriages in many rural areas of the country as a tribal tradition.

Many Kazakhs still preserve the patriarchial traditions of their society. It comes from a long history of sticking together with tribes to defend their herds. All of the grandfather’s sons were considered under one tribe, and husbands take the role as head of the family. There is also an observed hierarchy, in which older people are considered wise and demand respect.

When greeting somone in Kazakhstan, the usual gesture is to shake hands using both of your hands, and smile. Those who are religious Muslims will not touch members of the opposite gender. People who are close will hug, but you should wait to be initiated.

If you are invited to someone’s house for dinner, it is polite to give a gift like pastries, but not necessary. Many Muslims do not drink, so be careful about giving alcohol. Kazakhs will be very hospitable when they invite you in their homes. Even if you are just invited over, they will probably serve you tea and bread. Arrive on time to your invitation, and dress conservatively. Table manners are not strictly observed, and many foods are eaten by hand. At dinner, they will probably hand you a bowl full of broth or tea to drink, and if you do not want any more, turn your bowl upside down. If you are in the countryside, you may eat while sitting on the floor. Meals are considered very important events, and will probably last a few hours. When you finish eating, leave a little bit of food on your plate, or else you will be automatically offered more.

If you go to a very traditional rural place for dinner, there is a custom of serving the guest of honor a cooked sheep’s head on a plate. The guest is then expected to cut the head and give it to the rest of the table.

Navigating the Cities of Kazakhstan

Almaty

Almaty is the largest city in the country of Kazakhstan; there are 1.3 million inhabitants, which is 9% of the country’s total population. It was the country’s capital from 1929-1997, but still takes the status as the biggest commercial center, and is considered the Southern Capital. Its ethnic make up is about 51% Kazakh, 30% Russian, 6% Uyghur, plus some assorted other demographics from Asia and Europe. Almaty is a younger citysmog. To get away from the pollution and urban settings, many people have dachas, which are Russian-style farm areas or gardens with little cottages, up in the mountains. Most of the architecture is new, because there is a problem of earthquakes destroying the buildings. Almaty has a humid, mild climate where it never gets very hot or cold. It is home to many universities, and there is an aerial tramway and many fountains throughout the city. that was founded in the mid 19th century by Russians. It is situated in the Tient Shan Mountains in a valley, so it has a problem with

Astana

Astana is the capital and second largest city in Kazakhstan, with an estimated population around 600,000. Its population is only 30% Kazakh, the remainder being Russian, Ukrainian and German. It was founded in 1824, first as a Russian military fort, and then was famous for having merchant craft fairs with craftsmen from all over Russia and Central Asia. Today, it exists as a major cultural and industrial center to this country. Because it became the capital in 1997, many new developments have taken place, such as modern architecture. It is also turning into a major business center with representatives from all over the world. There are also many cultural institutions, like an opera/ballet theater, museums and many monuments. Many new business and entertainment buildings are under construction, building things like 3D movie theaters, casinos, bowling, night clubs and more. It is a place that is definitely changing and developing rapidly. It is also the second coldest capital in the world, and it is frozen about 6 months out of the year.

Chimkent

Chimkent (also known as Shymkent) is the third largest Kazakh city, being a populated region in the South Kazakhstan province, close to the Uzbekistan border. It is a major junction of the Trans-Siberian Railway. It is an older city that was founded in the 12th century, and it was a hub between nomads and settlers during the silk trade. There is still an interesting bazaar in Chimkent that is open daily. It was traditionally an Uzbek city by population, but the USSR assigned it under Kazakhstan. Today it is about 55% Kazakh, 16% Russian, 15% Uzbek, 2.7% Tatar, among other groups. There is some industrial activity in Chimkent, as well as an Asiatic quarter and a handful of parks and cultural sites.

Aktau, Kazakhstan

Aktau is an exciting, young city, and it is Kazakhstan’s only major sea port on the Caspian Sea. If you want to play a part in this city’s growth of character and charm, the time to move to Aktau is now.

Kazakhstan may not be the first place most aspiring expats look to when considering their next home, but that’s exactly part of what makes this forgotten country so alluring. Positioned at the crossroads between Europe, Asia and the Middle East, Kazakhstan has that diverse, multicultural heritage which most expats are so enthralled with.

In land area, Kazakhstan is actually the ninth largest country in the world. There’s a lot to see here, but Aktau will make the ideal home base. It is easy to travel through, with an international airport, a railway station, and a developed seaport. Buses and taxis are also the principal means of public transport within the city, making getting around easy.

The climate is continental, with dry summers and mild winters. Best yet, there’s a thriving beach season from from May to September, with an average sea temperature of 21°C. There are also several modern resorts on the coast to the south of the city. Bet you didn’t expect a beach season when you first thought of Kazakhstan, did you?

As said, Aktau is a relatively young city, with the architecture being a mix of modern glass business centers and residences and typical Soviet blocks of apartments. But since the city is continuing to develop, its character and charm are in evolution and something you can witness in real time.

In fact, there are hints that Aktau could become like a newborn baby Dubai. Plans are underway to build a totally new city to the north-west of the current city with 4 millions sq. meters of residential and business buildings. The architecture style will be derived from UAE’s construction experience under the patronage of Sheikh Abdullah ibn Zaid Al Nahayan.

The current city has plenty of sights to see too. While the main attraction remains the Caspian sea with its long side walks and beaches, Aktau also boasts a WWII Eternal Flame Memorial, Regional Studies & History Museum, a Drama Theatre and Yntymak Square.

Don’t wait until the city’s growth has peaked to move in. Kazakhstan (yes, Kazakhstan) could be your new home!