Described as one of the most beautiful museums in the world, the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan was visited by a delegation led by World Tourism Organization Secretary-General Sheikha Nasser Al Nowais, who familiarized themselves with the expositions and the Hall of the Holy Quran, highly praising the content, concept, and artistic solutions of this educational and cultural venue established on the initiative of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
During the visit, the delegation members were deeply impressed by the layout of Koykirilgan Kala in the museum's pre-Islamic exhibition. This 2nd–6th-century monument is significant because, in its time, it served not only as a human settlement but also as an observatory.
The chess pieces found at Dalvarzintepa were evaluated as one of the most remarkable items in the exhibition. These findings are among the oldest chess pieces in the world and hold special significance as they were created nearly four centuries before similar finds discovered in India.
In the First Renaissance exhibition, the attention of the guests was drawn to the letters sent by our Prophet to the rulers of the world at that time. Five copies of these letters are displayed in the exposition, and the diplomatic approach and profound meaning reflected in them were met with special interest.
During the familiarization with the exposition, a copy of the letter sent by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to one of the Arab rulers, Munzir ibn Sawa, was presented to the esteemed guest as a keepsake gift by calligrapher Habibulloh Solih.
In the Hall of the Holy Quran, considered the heart of the center, the delegation closely acquainted themselves with the priceless masterpiece of the Muslim world – the Uthman Mushaf copied in the 7th century. This rare copy of the Quran was kept at the Muyi Muborak madrasah under the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan from 1989 to 2025. On the initiative of Head of State Shavkat Mirziyoyev, this rare mushaf was brought to the Hall of the Holy Quran at the Center of Islamic Civilization on November 13, 2025. Along with this sacred relic, the guests also watched a modern mapping show.
It was specially recognized that every aspect of this complex was implemented based on the initiative and direct attention of the head of state.
Sheikha Nasser Al Nowais, Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization:
– First of all, I am very glad to officially visit Uzbekistan. This is my first official visit since taking office as Secretary-General, and I am very happy for the opportunity to visit the Center of Islamic Civilization. I know that this center was recently opened, and I congratulate you on presenting a wonderful story about five different civilizations.
This is a wonderful way to introduce future generations to different civilizations, and it is very impressive that the stories are presented through modern technologies, including immersive art. I have not seen such an approach before.
Congratulations once again, I think this Center will serve as a symbolic place of great importance for Uzbekistan and Tashkent. This center will also serve to develop tourism, especially to attract tourists who want to learn more about culture and heritage.
First of all, I congratulate him on creating the cultural museum of the Center of Islamic Civilization. This has become a wonderful addition to the historical, traditional, and cultural attractions in Uzbekistan. A solid foundation is necessary for development in tourism, and it is worthy of respect that attention is paid to this.
Secondly, facilitating visas for more than 90 countries is another important indicator showing the importance of tourism in the national economy.
The delegation members left their feedback in the Book of Honored Guests. In particular, they noted: “I sincerely congratulate the leadership and people of Uzbekistan on the creation of such a wonderful museum. This place will live through the centuries and serve as an important venue introducing future generations to the history of your country and the civilizations created by your ancestors.” The delegation also highly praised the scientific, spiritual, and cultural significance of the Center.
At the end of the visit, Center Director Firdavs Abdukhalikov presented the distinguished guest with a facsimile copy of the Diwan of Husayn Bayqara, copied in Herat in 1510, on behalf of the center. The book includes ghazals in the Turkic language by the great Timurid ruler Husayn Bayqara, as well as 4 rare miniatures created by Kamoliddin Behzad.
