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Kazakhstan is set to experience a series of significant changes starting in May 2026, affecting various aspects of daily life for its citizens. These updates range from infrastructure developments and economic initiatives to new regulations and seasonal adjustments.

Astana's Light Rail Transit (LRT) to Launch

Residents of Astana can anticipate the launch of the city's Light Rail Transit (LRT) system in the coming weeks. Astana Mayor Zhenis Kassymbek announced that all tests have been successfully completed. The LRT will feature 18 operational trains running at 3.5-minute intervals, offering a faster commute compared to other modes of transport.

Income Growth and Salary Increase Programs

The government plans to introduce a program aimed at increasing public income in May. Vice Minister of Finance Yerzhan Birzhanov stated that the document, currently under review by state bodies, includes various support measures, such as salary hikes for teachers and doctors.

Tax Notifications for Mobile Transfers

Kazakh citizens will begin receiving notifications from tax authorities regarding mobile money transfers. Second-tier banks have started transmitting data on citizen transactions to state revenue bodies. Following the data submission deadline on April 15th for the first quarter, tax officials will commence scrutiny of mobile transfers in May.

New Regulations for Contract Military Personnel

Effective May 4, 2026, amendments to the internal service charter for military personnel in Kazakhstan's Armed Forces and other military formations will take effect. Contract soldiers will be required to place their income-generating assets under trust management within 30 days of enlistment. Additionally, they will be permitted to rent out their residential properties for income.

Export Ban on Metal Scraps Extended

A ban on the export of ferrous and non-ferrous metal scrap and waste via all modes of transport will be extended for another six months, starting May 1, 2026. This measure aims to regulate the domestic market for these materials.

Liquefied Gas Export Restrictions

Kazakhstan plans to impose a six-month ban on the export of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), propane, and butane via road and rail transport, beginning May 14, 2026. This restriction is intended to ensure a stable supply of LPG to the domestic market.

Fountain Season Begins in Almaty

In Almaty, the city's fountains are scheduled to start operating in phases from early May. This season, a total of 55 public fountain complexes, including 11 "dry" fountains, will be active. They will operate daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM until October 1st.

Fishing Restrictions Introduced

Starting May 13, 2026, fishing will be subject to restrictions and bans during the breeding season for aquatic bioresources. These measures will apply to several major fishing basins, including the Aral-Syrdarya, Balkhash-Alakol, Zaisan-Irtysh, Esil, Nura-Sarysu, Tobol-Turgai, and Zhaiyk-Caspian basins, as well as the Kyzylorda River and the Shu-Talas basin.

Public Holidays and Days Off in May

May 2026 is set to be a busy month for public holidays in Kazakhstan. Citizens can look forward to additional days off in observance of state holidays and Eid al-Adha. Those on a five-day work week will have 14 days off, while those on a six-day schedule will have 9 days off.

May Weather Forecast: Extremes Expected

Kazhydromet has issued a consultative weather forecast for May 2026, predicting generally warmer-than-average temperatures across Kazakhstan, with uneven precipitation distribution. The average monthly temperature is expected to range between +14°C and +19°C in most regions.

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