Uzbekistan is developing a new tourism and cultural centre in Bukhara that will combine the city’s historical heritage with modern visitor services and facilities for major international cultural and business events.
A new destination for tourism and events
The project is designed to bring together Bukhara’s historical monuments, craft traditions and gastronomic heritage in a single location. It is also intended to support the city’s ability to host large international gatherings. The initiative follows discussions on Bukhara’s master plan held in January, when Uzbekistan’s president stressed that cultural projects should be closely linked to tourism development, economic sustainability and effective management.
The centre is being built on a 50-hectare site, with total investment planned at $105 million. The development will include a reception house, an exhibition hall, a museum, two modern hotels, 80 family guesthouses, a 2,000-seat amphitheatre and more than 70 retail and service facilities. The plans also provide for landscaped walking areas, craft centres and an artificial lake.
The architectural concept will combine the traditions of Bukhara’s historic architecture with contemporary design solutions. Construction of engineering and utility networks is currently under way across 10 hectares of the site, involving around 50 units of specialised equipment.
Expected economic impact
Once fully operational, the centre is expected to create 2,000 jobs and increase the annual flow of tourists to Bukhara by 2 million visitors. According to project estimates, annual local budget revenues could reach 288 billion soums.
Uzbekistan’s president underlined that the project’s value should not be measured solely by the construction of new facilities. The centre is expected to create an environment worthy of Bukhara’s reputation as a historic centre of science, education, trade and craftsmanship, while presenting the city’s heritage to a wider international audience. Visitors should experience the spirit of the ancient city alongside its modern development, while local residents should gain new employment and income opportunities through tourism.
Officials have been instructed to implement the project in line with these objectives. During the same review, preparations for Bukhara’s infrastructure ahead of summits scheduled for 2027 were also discussed, with further instructions issued to the responsible authorities.
For international furniture, construction, interior and exterior manufacturing, hospitality, design and architecture companies, the project signals potential demand for hotel and guesthouse fit-outs, public-space furnishings, retail and service interiors, exhibition infrastructure and culturally sensitive architectural solutions. Its wider relevance lies in the development of Bukhara as an international tourism and events destination, although the projected visitor growth and fiscal returns will depend on the centre’s completion, operating model and ability to attract sustained international demand.
