Exploring Uzbekistan's recently opened multi-million-dollar cultural center

Taller than the Hollywood sign and significantly larger than the White House, Uzbekistan is unveiling a grand new cultural institution. The Center for Islamic Civilization (CISC) in Tashkent, a $150 million, three-story facility, is scheduled to welcome visitors in March 2026. It aims to highlight Uzbekistans historical significance as a hub of Islamic scholarship.

Our ancestors played an influential role in global civilization, stated Firdavs Abdukhalikov, director of CISC. Our challenge was to present this legacy to the world and younger generations in a modern, engaging way.

During eight years of construction, the center collaborated with 1,500 experts from over 40 countries to shape its cultural, scientific, and architectural vision. An interactive educational zone uses virtual reality, augmented reality, and AI to engage visitors with historical figures, inspiring young minds to explore astronomy, medicine, literature, and the arts.

The second floor will serve as a research hub, providing international scholars access to a library of more than 200,000 books. This is more than a museum. Its a cultural and educational platform where visitors interact with the ideas and lives of historical figures, Abdukhalikov added.

Although Uzbekistan is a secular state, Islam has shaped its cultural heritage. Introduced during the 7th-century Arab conquests, it replaced earlier Zoroastrian and Buddhist traditions. Between the 9th and 12th centuries, the region flourished in science, literature, and architecture. Historian Farhan Ahmad Nizami of Oxford University described medieval Uzbekistan as a globalized world before globalization, noting the importance of cities like Bukhara and Samarkand on the Silk Road as centers of cultural exchange.

Later, the Timurid Empire (15th16th centuries) ushered in a renaissance of art, science, and diplomacy, with Samarkand at its heart. The CISCs architecture, designed by Abdukakhkhor Turdiev, draws heavily from Timurid-era styles, featuring ornate mosaics, blue-tiled domes, and intricate decorations.

Russian and Soviet rule in the 19th and 20th centuries brought secular governance and suppressed Islamic practices. Many cultural treasures were removed from the country. Since gaining independence in 1991, Uzbekistan has actively worked to reclaim its heritage. Through auctions at Christies and Sothebys, we have recovered around 2,000 items and continue our efforts, Abdukhalikov said.

The museum will display ancient manuscripts, including a 7th-century Quran of Uthman and 114 Quranic manuscripts created by rulers and calligraphers across centuries. Nizami emphasized that while the center has tremendous potential, its success will depend on sustained research, education, and cultural engagement.

Some have criticized the centers cost, funding sources, and limited religious freedoms in the country. CISC has not disclosed details on these matters. A construction fire in September briefly delayed the launch, but the main structure is now complete. With 60% of Uzbekistans population under 35, Abdukhalikov stressed that the center is designed to inspire future generations. We aim to share the story of our great history through innovation and creativity, he said.

Commentary: Uzbekistan's New Cultural Landmark and Its Global Significance

The unveiling of the Center for Islamic Civilization (CISC) in Tashkent represents a significant cultural and historical moment for Uzbekistan. Set to open its doors in March 2026, this $150 million, three-story institution is poised to become a global beacon for Islamic scholarship and heritage. As the director of the center, Firdavs Abdukhalikov, rightly points out, the challenge lies in presenting Uzbekistan's rich history in a way that resonates with modern audiences while honoring its deep-rooted cultural legacy. This aim is not only ambitious but necessary as the country seeks to reconnect with its past after centuries of political upheaval and foreign dominance.

The CISC’s architectural grandeur, influenced by Timurid-era styles, serves as a constant reminder of Uzbekistan's historical importance. Samarkand and Bukhara, once key players in the Silk Road network, were centers of intellectual, scientific, and artistic exchange, and their influence is still palpable today. Through its unique blend of modern technology and traditional scholarship, the center seeks to reintegrate Uzbekistan into global intellectual and cultural dialogues. The incorporation of virtual reality, augmented reality, and AI into the museum's interactive exhibits promises to engage younger generations and inspire a renewed interest in fields such as astronomy, medicine, and literature.

However, while the center’s design and mission have received significant praise, its construction and funding raise questions. The $150 million price tag is substantial, especially considering the current economic realities of the country. Furthermore, there is little transparency about the sources of these funds, which has led to some criticism. Despite these concerns, the goal of creating a space where international scholars can collaborate and learn from Uzbekistan's history is undeniably valuable. The research library, housing over 200,000 books, will likely serve as a critical resource for scholars around the world.

One cannot ignore the broader political context in which this project is unfolding. Uzbekistan, while officially secular, has a long history shaped by Islam. Yet, the country still grapples with questions of religious freedom and cultural identity in the post-Soviet era. The CISC, while a symbol of Uzbekistan's Islamic heritage, also embodies the country’s efforts to modernize and assert itself on the world stage. It is a testament to the nation's resilience and determination to reclaim and preserve its cultural treasures, especially after the Soviet period when many such treasures were lost or suppressed.

In conclusion, the Center for Islamic Civilization is more than just a museum; it is a statement of intent for Uzbekistan’s future. As the country moves forward, it will be essential to balance its cultural aspirations with its political realities. The success of the CISC will depend not only on its architectural and technological achievements but also on its ability to foster sustained research, education, and engagement with the broader global community.

Sources:

• Inside Uzbekistan’s new multi-million-dollar cultural center