Abai Region, Administrative region in eastern Kazakhstan
Abai is an administrative territory in eastern Kazakhstan covering roughly 185,500 square kilometers (71,600 square miles), including ten districts and the capital Semey. The landscape shifts from Kazakh steppe in the south through rolling hills to forested areas in the north, crossed by the Irtysh river and its tributaries.
The territory became a separate administrative unit in June 2022 after splitting from East Kazakhstan Region, restoring boundaries of the former Semipalatinsk Region. The reorganization aimed to simplify governance across the country's sprawling eastern lands and bring decision-making closer to local communities.
The territory takes its name from poet Abai Qunanbaiuly, whose verses shaped Kazakh language and identity in the 19th century. His thoughts still guide daily life for many residents, especially in towns along the Irtysh river where his influence remains visible in schools and public spaces.
Most travelers reach the territory through Semey International Airport, which offers connections to Almaty, Astana and a few Russian cities. Those driving find main roads leading west toward the national capital and north toward the Russian border.
The territory includes Kurchatov, a closed scientific city that served as the main site for Soviet nuclear weapons testing and now houses research facilities under strict control. Visitors can enter the city only with special permission, as it remains a restricted zone today.
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