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In an article published by China Daily, the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan is described as one of the country’s most significant cultural and scientific projects, emphasizing that it is not only a place that integrates rich historical heritage with modern technologies, but also a platform that strengthens international humanitarian ties. The article also highlights the steady development of cultural, tourism, and humanitarian cooperation between Uzbekistan and China against the backdrop of the Center.

The newly opened Islamic Civilization Center, located in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, has been recognized as one of the most significant cultural projects in the country following its launch in March, according to CNN.

Designed in the architectural style of the Eastern Middle Ages, the complex is not only an architectural landmark, but also a "strategy for the spiritual and intellectual advancement of new Uzbekistan", said Firdavs Abdukhalikov, director of the center.

Past, present and future

Covering 10 hectares in the historic center of Tashkent, the complex features a 65-meter azure dome and four golden gates, which symbolically represent the unity of all regions of Uzbekistan.

Its architectural style, with attention paid to every line of the structure, reflects a harmonious integration of Timurid-era traditions and modern technological solutions.

The main pillar, reflecting the rich architectural traditions of Ulugh Beg Madrasah, a historical landmark in Uzbekistan, is adorned with a calligraphic inscription of the first revealed verse of the Quran.

The exhibition concept departs from that of traditional museums, going beyond the presentation of historical facts to immerse visitors in a living intellectual innovation.

The Wall of Civilizations, a large multimedia panel depicting humanity's intellectual progress as continuous, illustrates how the discoveries of great figures from each era are directly linked to modern high technologies.

The Time Capsule, where visitors can leave messages for future generations, is becoming an attractive interactive project.

The large-scale integration of digital technologies, such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence and holograms, brings to life the manuscripts from the ninth century, ancient observatories, and other historical discoveries.

The 1001 Inventions Laboratory, designed for children, fosters early interest in engineering and natural sciences. The center is thus becoming an interactive educational platform that nurtures the nation's intellectual potential.

The center currently includes an exhibition gallery on the ground floor and an extensive library on the second floor containing more than 1 million books.

Based on contemporary urban planning and environmental sustainability standards, the landscaped grounds surrounding the complex create a spacious cultural and educational zone accessible to both city residents and international visitors.

The construction of the center was initiated by a decree of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on June 23, 2017, and the project was launched in 2018.

On Jan 29, 2025, Mirziyoyev visited the center and provided a series of recommendations and directives regarding the incorporation of scientific and innovative projects developed by more than 2,000 researchers into the exhibitions of the center.

Specialists and designers from more than 40 countries have contributed to enhancing the center's activities and enriching its exhibitions. The project has also supported the repatriation of Uzbek cultural heritage scattered abroad.

During a congress themed Central Asia: Common Spiritual and Educational Heritage — Common Future held from Nov 13 to 15 in Tashkent, the center was visited by the presidents of five countries.

In February, the International Committee of the Prix Versailles included the center in its list of the "world's most beautiful museums of 2026".

Khaled El-Enany, director-general of UNESCO, described the center as a "unique civilizational complex, integrating a next-generation museum, advanced research infrastructure, a modern library, national and international archives on the history of Central Asian civilizations, digital humanities technologies and an extensive network for global scientific and cultural collaboration".

The library located on the second floor houses more than 1 million books

Expanding Cooperation

In recent years, cooperation between Uzbekistan and China has been steadily developing in the fields of political dialogue, security, trade and economic relations, as well as cultural and humanitarian exchanges.

The Uzbek and Chinese peoples have long maintained close ties in cultural and humanitarian spheres. One of the key areas of cooperation between the two countries is tourism. Historical and cultural proximity contributes to the development of tourist exchanges.

In June 2025, the introduction of a 30-day visa-free regime between Uzbekistan and China became an important step in further strengthening bilateral relations.

That same year was declared the Year of Uzbekistan Tourism in China. Within the framework of this program, presentations, cultural events, and roadshows were held in various cities and regions of Uzbekistan. As a result, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Uzbekistan in 2025 tripled compared to 2024.

“We are continuously developing tourism infrastructure in our country. New and attractive tourist routes are being created. Hospitable Uzbekistan is always ready to warmly welcome Chinese tourists with its unique historical monuments and beautiful nature,” said Firdavs Abdukhalikov.

To facilitate travel for Chinese tourists, air connections between cities of Uzbekistan and China are being expanded. Currently, more than 60 flights are operated weekly.

Overall, there is great potential for cooperation between Uzbekistan and China in all areas. The multifaceted partnership between the two countries stands as a vivid example of close friendship and reliable partnership.