Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
VisionCare 2027 is the premier exhibition in Central Asia focused on optics, optometry, and ophthalmology. Scheduled for May 19-21, 2027, at the Atakent Exhibition Center in Almaty, this event will gather leading manufacturers and distributors of eyewear, lenses, optical equipment, and accessories.
It serves both B2B and B2C segments, providing a unique platform for innovation and opportunity in the rapidly growing optical market. VisionCare 2027 takes place in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: VisionCare 2027 takes place from May 19-21, 2027, at Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9, Almaty, Kazakhstan.
- 2Scale and Focus: This exhibition is the second edition focused on optics, optometry, and ophthalmology, showcasing leading manufacturers and distributors.
- 3Organiser: The event is organised by Iteca, a reputable company in the exhibition industry.
- 4Buyer Authority: Targeted attendees include optical retail owners, optometrists, ophthalmologists, and consumers seeking vision care solutions.
- 5Entry: Registration will open 9 months prior to the event; visit the official website for ticket information.
Why visit
Attendees will gain insights into the latest trends and technologies in vision care, network with industry professionals, and explore a wide range of products from leading brands. The exhibition offers free consultations and workshops, making it an invaluable experience for both professionals and consumers.
Why exhibit
Exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase their products to a diverse audience, establish distribution channels, and enter a rapidly growing market. This exhibition is the second edition focused on optics, optometry, and ophthalmology, showcasing leading manufacturers and distributors. Targeted attendees include optical retail owners, optometrists, ophthalmologists, and consumers seeking vision care solutions.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Optical retail owners, buyers and store managers sourcing frames, lenses and retail displays
Optometrists and contact lens fitters looking for diagnostic tools, lenses and fitting technologies
Ophthalmologists and clinic procurement teams evaluating diagnostic and surgical-adjacent equipment
Opticians and dispensing staff comparing lens options, coatings and frame ranges
Optical laboratory managers and technicians sourcing edging, finishing and lens-processing equipment
Distributors, importers and regional agents for eyewear, contact lens and optical equipment brands
Practice managers and optical chain buyers reviewing software, shopfitting and practice equipment
Vision-care students, educators and researchers attending to review clinical and retail technology
Representatives of clinics, diagnostic centers and hospitals exploring vision-correction devices
Consumers and patients seeking eyewear, contact lenses or vision-correction services where public admission is offered
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Eyewear frame manufacturers, designers and brand distributors
Ophthalmic lens manufacturers, coating suppliers and progressive lens specialists
Contact lens and contact lens solution producers
Optical diagnostic equipment makers for autorefractors, slit lamps, tonometers and OCT systems
Optical laboratory and finishing equipment suppliers for edging, surfacing and lens mounting
Optometry software and practice-management system providers
Dry-eye, myopia-control and low-vision device suppliers
Optical accessories, retail display and shopfitting suppliers
Regional distributors and agents representing international optical brands
Medical and educational institutions offering optometry training and clinical services
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Ophthalmic frames and designer eyewear
Sunglasses and prescription sunwear
Single-vision, bifocal and progressive lenses
Photochromic, polarized and blue-light-filtering lenses
Anti-reflective, scratch-resistant and hydrophobic lens coatings
Contact lenses, solutions and care products
Autorefractors, phoropters and refraction systems
Slit lamps, tonometers and perimeters
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and retinal imaging devices
Optical laboratory edging, surfacing and finishing equipment
Optometry software, practice management and e-commerce tools
Dry-eye diagnostic and treatment devices
Myopia-control lenses and orthokeratology products
Low-vision aids and magnifiers
Optical retail displays, cases, cleaning products and accessories
Optical workshop tools, calibration equipment and spare parts
Location & Facilities
Venue
Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9
42, Timiryazev str., Almaty, Kazakhstan
Facilities
Parking
Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9 in Almaty typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9 in Almaty typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9 for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Who runs the show
Organisers
Iteca
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Almaty, Kazakhstan
Why it matters
Attendees will gain insights into the latest trends and technologies in vision care, network with industry professionals, and explore a wide range of products from leading brands. The exhibition offers free consultations and workshops, making it an invaluable experience for both professionals and consumers.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · USD
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Almaty International Airport
Almaty International Airport (ALA) is the main commercial gateway serving Almaty; allow 45-60 min by road or rail to Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9
to venue
by car
Astana Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport
Astana Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ) is the main commercial gateway serving Almaty; allow 45-60 min by road or rail to Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9
to venue
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Shymbulak Medeu Camp
midscale
Medeu Valley, outside central AlmatyMountain-area accommodation with free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking, restaurant and business center. Approx. 24,000-42,000 KZT per night; allow extra transfer time to Atakent.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. 3,500-6,000 KZT one way
Best forAlmaty International Airport (ALA) to Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9
Roughly 25-35 km and 30-45 min depending on traffic. Use the official airport taxi desk or an app-based ride-hail service; confirm the live fare and pickup zone before departure.
ride-hail
Estimated costApprox. 1,500-2,800 KZT one way
Best forCentral Almaty, for example Abay Avenue or Respublika Square, to Atakent Exhibition Center
About 15-25 min in normal traffic. Yandex Go and inDrive are common options; surge pricing may apply during event peak hours.
bus
Estimated costApprox. 150-250 KZT per single trip
Best forCentral Almaty to the Atakent area
Use an Onay transport card or contactless payment where accepted. Allow 30-50 min and confirm the closest stop and walking route to Pavilion 9.
metro + bus
Estimated costApprox. 200-350 KZT combined
Best forAlmaty Metro to the Atakent area
The metro does not serve the exhibition hall door-to-door; combine a metro trip with a bus or short taxi. Confirm the current route and fare before travel.
parking
Estimated costApprox. 500-1,500 KZT per day
Best forAtakent Exhibition Center on-site parking
Capacity can be tight during large events. Arrive early, follow venue signage for Pavilion 9 and confirm the official event-day rate at the venue.
airport bus + taxi
Estimated costApprox. 200-300 KZT bus plus 1,500-2,500 KZT taxi
Best forAlmaty International Airport (ALA) to Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9
A lower-cost option with a longer travel time. Confirm airport bus routes and operating hours locally, then continue by taxi or ride-hail to the venue.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. USD taxi/rideshare from NQZ to venue (estimate; confirm before travel)
Best forAstana Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ) to Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9
Astana Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ) is the main commercial gateway serving Almaty; allow 45-60 min by road or rail to Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9.
Weather
May 2027 in Almaty is late spring: daytime temperatures often range around 12-25 C, with cooler nights and a chance of rain showers. Mountain proximity can make conditions change quickly. Check the forecast 5-7 days before travel and pack layers plus a light rain jacket.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Almaty has 4G mobile coverage from operators such as Beeline, Kcell and Tele2; eSIM and local SIM cards are options for visitors. Power is 220V at 50Hz with European-style C/F plugs. Confirm venue Wi-Fi access and password policies with the organiser or exhibitor manual.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Language in Almaty
Kazakh and Russian are widely spoken. English is common in international hotels and some exhibition settings but less so in taxis and local shops; keep addresses in Russian or Kazakh and use a map app for drivers.
Business meetings
Punctuality is respected at exhibitions and business meetings. A handshake and business card exchange are standard; business casual is appropriate for the show floor and most meetings.
Money and tipping
The local currency is the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). Cards are widely accepted in Almaty hotels and restaurants; carry small cash for markets, taxis and tips. A tip of around 5-10% is common when a service charge is not included.
Local etiquette
Respect queueing and personal space, and ask before photographing people or exhibitor stands. If you extend your stay to visit religious or mountain sites, dress modestly and check local guidance.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: ALA
Book flights into Almaty International Airport (ALA) for the shortest transfer to Atakent Exhibition Center. NQZ in Astana is not an Almaty airport: it is in the capital and requires a separate domestic flight or a long overland transfer of roughly 1,200 km, so do not book NQZ for an Almaty venue without a connection. Compare ALA fares and allow 30-45 min by road to the venue.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Almaty International Airport (ALA): Almaty International Airport (ALA) is the main commercial gateway serving Almaty; allow 45-60 min by road or rail to Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9; Astana Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ): Astana Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ) is the main commercial gateway serving Almaty; allow 45-60 min by road or rail to Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9. Allow road or rail time to Atakent Exhibition Center, Pa
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9: Medeu Valley, outside central Almaty: Shymbulak Medeu Camp.
Ride-hail: Yandex Go and inDrive are widely used in Almaty; both allow app-based payment and route tracking. Pickup zones at ALA and drop-off points at Atakent can vary by event traffic, so follow signage. Fares are dynamic; expect approx. 1,500-3,000 KZT for central city trips and 3,500-6,000 KZT from ALA to the venue.
Public transit: Almaty's bus and metro network can reach the Atakent area, but the metro does not serve the exhibition hall door-to-door; combine it with a bus or short taxi. Use an Onay transport card or contactless payment where accepted; single trips are approx. 150-250 KZT. Allow 30-50 min from central districts and confirm the closest stop to Pavilion 9.
Parking: Atakent Exhibition Center has on-site parking, but capacity can be tight during large events. Arrive early, follow venue signage for Pavilion 9, and confirm event-day parking rates with the venue or organiser. Approx. 500-1,500 KZT per day is a planning band, not an official quote.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: May 2027
Temperature: Approx. 12-25 C during the day; 5-12 C at night
Seasonality: Spring showers are possible in May. The weather can be changeable near the mountains, so check the forecast before travelling.
Packing: Pack layers, a light rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes and business-casual clothing for meetings. A universal adapter for European C/F plugs is useful.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at VisionCare 2027 usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
T-1
Day -14: Confirm VisionCare 2027 dates (19-21 May 2027), venue (Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9) and visitor registration rules on visioncare.kz.
T-2
Day -13: Check your nationality's Kazakhstan visa or visa-free status and passport validity; apply for an e-visa if required.
T-3
Day -12: Book flights to Almaty International Airport (ALA) and compare arrival times against hotel check-in and show hours.
T-4
Day -11: Reserve a hotel in central Almaty or near Atakent; confirm cancellation terms and airport transfer options.
T-5
Day -10: Request an invitation letter from the organiser or employer if your visa application requires one.
T-6
Day -9: Build a meeting list of eyewear, lens, contact lens and diagnostic equipment suppliers you want to visit.
T-7
Day -8: Check the VisionCare schedule and any conference sessions on visioncare.kz/schedule; note sessions relevant to optometry, retail or lab work.
T-8
Day -7: Arrange travel insurance and save emergency contacts; check mobile roaming or eSIM options for Kazakhstan.
T-9
Day -6: Download Yandex Go or inDrive and save the venue address in Russian or Kazakh for drivers.
T-10
Day -5: Confirm badge collection, opening hours and visitor entry requirements with the organiser.
T-11
Day -4: Prepare a light business wardrobe, comfortable shoes and a rain jacket for Almaty's spring weather.
T-12
Day -3: Print or save digital copies of passport, visa, hotel booking and registration confirmation.
T-13
Day -2: Check the 5-day weather forecast and confirm airport pickup or taxi plans from ALA.
T-14
Day -1: Charge devices, pack a European C/F power adapter and review the floor plan or exhibitor list before travelling to Atakent.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2VisionCare 2027 registration concourse
Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights$190.00
- Per diem × 2$150.00
Estimated total$340.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether VisionCare 2027 fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For VisionCare 2027, what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Eyewear frames and lenses and Optical equipment and accessories solutions and benchmarking suppliers at VisionCare 2027 in Almaty.
Min. budget
$450.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Eyewear frames and lenses and Optical equipment and accessories products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$2,200.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Almaty show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
Gallery
Photos
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
What is VisionCare 2027 and where is it held?
VisionCare 2027 is a vision-care and optical industry exhibition scheduled for 19-21 May 2027 at Atakent Exhibition Center, Pavilion 9, in Almaty, Kazakhstan. It brings together eyewear, lens, contact lens, diagnostic equipment and optical retail suppliers with regional eye-care professionals. Confirm final details on visioncare.kz.
Who should attend VisionCare 2027?
The show is relevant for optical retail owners and buyers, optometrists, ophthalmologists, opticians, contact lens fitters, optical laboratory managers, distributors, clinic procurement teams, practice managers and vision-care students. Consumers may also attend where the organiser offers public admission.
Is VisionCare 2027 open to the public or trade-only?
The current visitor profile includes both professional eye-care audiences and consumers seeking eyewear or vision-correction services. Check visioncare.kz for admission rules and whether specific days or halls are restricted to trade visitors.
How do I register for VisionCare 2027?
Use the official organiser site visioncare.kz for registration and badge information. Do not rely on third-party ticket resellers; confirm any visitor fees, opening hours and registration deadlines on the official page.
What product categories can I see at VisionCare 2027?
Exhibits are expected to cover ophthalmic frames and sunglasses, progressive and single-vision lenses, contact lenses and solutions, autorefractors, slit lamps, tonometers, OCT and perimeters, optical lab edging equipment, optometry software, dry-eye devices, myopia-control products and optical retail accessories.
Who exhibits at VisionCare 2027?
Exhibitors typically include eyewear frame manufacturers, lens and coating suppliers, contact lens producers, optical diagnostic equipment makers, optical laboratory equipment suppliers, optometry software providers, dry-eye and myopia-control brands, and regional distributors of optical products.
How do I get from Almaty International Airport to Atakent Exhibition Center?
ALA is roughly 20-25 km from the venue. A taxi or ride-hail typically takes 30-45 min and costs approx. 3,500-6,000 KZT one way. Public bus plus taxi is cheaper but slower. Confirm the pickup zone and live fare before departure.
What is the local currency and are cards accepted?
The local currency is the Kazakhstani tenge (KZT). Cards are widely accepted in Almaty hotels, restaurants and larger shops, but carry small cash for markets, taxis and tips. Notify your bank before travelling if needed.
Do I need a visa to attend VisionCare 2027 in Kazakhstan?
Visa requirements depend on nationality. Kazakhstan operates visa-free entry for many passport holders and an e-visa system for others. Verify your status with the nearest Kazakhstan embassy or the official e-visa portal before booking, and confirm registration rules with your hotel.
What language is used at VisionCare 2027?
Kazakh and Russian are the main local languages. Organiser materials and exhibitor support may be available in Russian, Kazakh or English, but English is not universal on the show floor. Consider arranging an interpreter for detailed technical or commercial meetings.
What is the weather like in Almaty in May?
May is late spring in Almaty, with daytime temperatures often around 12-25 C, cooler nights and a chance of rain showers. Mountain proximity can bring quick changes, so pack layers and a light rain jacket.
Are there co-located events or conference sessions at VisionCare 2027?
No verified co-located event or session schedule is available in the current evidence pack. Check visioncare.kz and the schedule page for confirmed conference sessions, workshops or partner events closer to the show.
Can I book a hotel near Atakent Exhibition Center?
Yes. Central Almaty hotels are generally 15-30 min from Atakent by taxi or ride-hail, while hotels closer to the Atakent district may be walkable or a short ride. Book early for event week and confirm cancellation terms.
What should exhibitors prepare for VisionCare 2027?
Exhibitors should define product goals, confirm booth requirements, arrange shipping and customs for optical equipment, check electrical compatibility, prepare Russian or English sales materials, register staff badges and plan lead capture and follow-up.
Glossary
- Optometry
- The primary eye-care profession focused on vision testing, refraction, prescription eyewear and contact lenses. At VisionCare 2027, optometry tools and retail optical services are a core visitor interest.
- Ophthalmology
- The medical specialty dealing with eye disease, surgery and clinical treatment. Ophthalmology buyers at the exhibition typically look for diagnostic imaging, tonometers, perimeters and clinic equipment.
- Optician
- A professional who dispenses and fits spectacles and, in some markets, contact lenses. Opticians compare frame ranges, lens coatings and retail display options at optical exhibitions.
- Refraction
- The measurement process used to determine a patient's prescription for glasses or contact lenses. Refraction equipment includes autorefractors, retinoscopes and phoropters.
- Autorefractor
- An instrument that estimates refractive error objectively, giving a starting point for a subjective eye examination. It is a common product category for optometry practices and clinics.
- Phoropter
- A manual or digital instrument used during subjective refraction to switch lenses in front of the patient's eyes. Digital phoropters are often shown alongside practice-management software.
- Slit lamp
- A microscope with a slit illuminator used to examine the anterior segment of the eye, including the cornea, iris and lens. Slit lamps are standard equipment for eye clinics and contact lens fitters.
- Tonometer
- A device that measures intraocular pressure, a key test in glaucoma assessment. Tonometers range from handheld and air-puff models to applanation instruments used in clinics.
- OCT
- Optical coherence tomography, a non-invasive imaging technique that produces cross-sectional images of the retina and optic nerve. OCT systems are high-value diagnostic equipment for eye clinics.
- Perimeter
- An instrument used to map the visual field and detect blind spots or field loss. Perimetry is important in glaucoma and neurological eye assessments.
- Progressive lens
- A multifocal spectacle lens with a gradual change in power from distance to near vision. Progressive lens design, freeform surfacing and coating options are major optical exhibition categories.
- Photochromic lens
- A lens that darkens on exposure to ultraviolet light and fades indoors. Photochromic and polarized sunwear are often presented alongside prescription lens ranges.
- Contact lens fitting
- The clinical process of selecting and assessing contact lenses for comfort, corneal health and vision. Fitting tools, trial lenses and care solutions are relevant to optometrists and contact lens practices.
- Myopia control
- Clinical strategies and products intended to slow the progression of short-sightedness in children and teenagers. This category includes special contact lenses, spectacle lenses and orthokeratology.
- Dry eye
- A condition caused by insufficient tear production or poor tear quality, leading to discomfort and surface damage. Dry-eye diagnostics and treatment devices are increasingly shown at vision-care exhibitions.
- Lens coating
- A thin treatment applied to spectacle lenses to add properties such as anti-reflection, scratch resistance, hydrophobic performance or blue-light filtering. Coating suppliers sell to lens labs and optical retailers.
- Optical lab edging
- The process of cutting and finishing a lens to fit a specific frame. Edging machines, blockers, tracer systems and lab software are core products for optical laboratories.
- Low vision aid
- A device or optical product that helps people with reduced vision perform daily tasks, such as magnifiers, telescopes and electronic reading systems. These products serve optometrists, clinics and specialized retailers.
- Orthokeratology
- The use of specially designed rigid contact lenses worn overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea and reduce myopia during the day. It is often grouped with myopia-control services.
- Optical coherence biometry
- A non-contact measurement technique used to calculate eye length and other parameters for cataract surgery and lens selection. Biometers are typically shown with diagnostic and surgical-adjacent equipment.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- VisionCare 2027
- VisionCare Kazakhstan 2027
- Kazakhstan eyewear expo
- optometry equipment Almaty
- contact lenses Kazakhstan
- Atakent vision care expo
- optical retail Kazakhstan
- ophthalmic equipment expo
- VisionCare Almaty 2027
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.