By Firdavs Abdukhalikov
Director of the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan
Tashkent: Uzbekistan’s the Center of Islamic Civilization has emerged as a major international cultural and academic project, gaining global recognition for promoting inter-civilizational dialogue, scientific heritage and Islamic scholarship.
The project, initiated under the leadership of Shavkat Mirziyoyev, has been completed and is set to open to the public, marking a significant milestone in Uzbekistan’s cultural diplomacy.
Presidential Vision Drives Megaproject
The foundation of the Center reflects a long-term vision to highlight the historical contributions of Islamic civilization to global knowledge and human development.
During a visit in January 2025, President Mirziyoyev directed that scientific and innovative contributions from over 2,000 researchers be integrated into the Center’s exhibitions. Since then, experts and designers from more than 40 countries have contributed to shaping its content and infrastructure.
The completion of the project was formally announced at the United Nations in September 2025, positioning the Center as a global intellectual and cultural platform.
A Platform for Global Dialogue
Officials say the Center aims to address contemporary global challenges, including cultural fragmentation and misinterpretations of religion, by promoting dialogue based on knowledge and shared heritage.
António Guterres praised the initiative, highlighting Uzbekistan’s role in advancing dialogue, mutual respect and enlightenment at the international level.
The Center presents Islam through its historical role in advancing science, medicine, philosophy and the arts, emphasizing its intellectual and humanistic traditions.
International Leaders Applaud Initiative
The project has received wide-ranging support from global leaders. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev described it as a unique scientific and cultural platform, while Ilham Aliyev highlighted its importance in countering Islamophobia and promoting tolerance.
Other leaders, including Santiago Peña and Alexander Stubb, noted the Center’s role in showcasing the historical contributions of Central Asia to global civilization.
Cultural Heritage and Research Integration
A key component of the Center’s work includes the repatriation of cultural artifacts through collaboration with international institutions such as Sotheby’s, Christie’s and Bonhams.
Approximately 2,000 rare artifacts — including manuscripts linked to Ibn Sina and Al-Biruni — have been brought back, contributing to the restoration of Central Asia’s historical legacy.
A Modern Hub for Knowledge and Innovation
Experts describe the Center as a next-generation institution combining museum spaces, research facilities, digital archives and academic collaboration.
Drawing comparisons with historic institutions such as the House of Wisdom, the Center integrates traditional scholarship with modern technologies to create a dynamic knowledge ecosystem.
Outlook: A New Civilizational Institution
Analysts view the Center of Islamic Civilization as a landmark initiative that positions Uzbekistan at the forefront of cultural and intellectual engagement in the 21st century.
By combining heritage preservation with global dialogue, the Center is expected to play a key role in shaping narratives around Islamic civilization and fostering international understanding in an increasingly complex world.
