Current Time in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan's culture regarding time
Kazakhstan's culture regarding time
The sense of time varies by region
Kazakhstan has a vast land area, and lifestyles and the way people use time vary by region. Time is relatively strict in urban areas, but tends to be flexible in rural areas.
Lifestyle influenced by nomadic culture
Due to their historical background of nomadic life, flexible use of time according to the natural environment and seasons can still be seen. In particular, in rural areas, it is common to act according to sunrise and sunset.
Time consciousness due to remnants of the Soviet era
Due to the influence of the former Soviet era, a culture of punctuality is deeply rooted in public institutions and educational institutions, and there are many situations where people move according to schedule.
Kazakhstan's values regarding time
Valuing time with family
The value of prioritizing time with family over work is deeply rooted, and spending weekends and holidays with family is highly valued. There is a culture that values the time for dinner and events.
Emphasis on "leisure" and not rushing
Especially in daily life, there is a mindset that emphasizes "going with the flow" rather than being pressed for time. People are relatively tolerant of late visits and changes in plans.
Awareness of sharing time born from socializing
There is a culture that emphasizes relationships with people, and there is a strong tendency to value conversation and interaction in the moment rather than the time of an appointment.
Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or moving to Kazakhstan
It is basic to be punctual in business
In business meetings and public procedures in urban areas, punctuality is required. In particular, when dealing with international companies, the same awareness of time as in Japan may be required.
Appointment times may be vague in rural areas
In rural areas, privately owned shops, home visits, etc., the appointment time is often a "guideline," and some delays are not considered a problem.
Business hours change due to holidays and religious events
Business hours may be shortened or closed on Islamic holidays and national anniversaries, so please check in advance.
Fun facts about time in Kazakhstan
History of multiple time zones
In the past, there were two time zones in the country, but now most of the country, including the capital Astana (formerly Nur-Sultan), operates in a unified time zone (UTC+6).
Weddings and celebrations usually last for several hours
Traditional celebrations can last for hours, with meals, dancing, and speeches. It is a culture where people welcome losing track of time.
Events continue from morning until late at night during the summer "Nowruz"
During Nowruz (New Year), which celebrates the vernal equinox, traditional food, dancing, and music are performed throughout the city from morning, making it a holiday where people truly lose track of time.