Rich with diverse cultural heritage, tourism is one of the segments that drive the economy of the Republic of Uzbekistan. According to Temur Mirzaev, Advisor to the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Heritage of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the country refers to Islamic Tourism as ‘ziarah’ tourism.
“The term encompasses Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism and Islam. Uzbekistan, for 3000 years, has been home to various heritage sites, namely Buddhist temples, Christian churches, Jewish synagogues, etc. Eighty per cent of the cultural heritage sites here are Muslim-related. They are from the Islamic enlightenment or Renaissance period, from the 12th century to the 19th century,” Temur explained.
He shared that scholars worldwide cherished the unique artefacts, books and manuscripts from that period. The oldest manuscript of the Quran can also be found in Tashkent.
Recognising the importance of academia in tourism, the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Heritage of the Republic of Uzbekistan has 13 cultural heritage colleges, a think tank institution and separate tourism and cultural heritage-related education coordinated by the Silk Road International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage, Samarkand.
Islamic Civilisation Centre
“The government is initiating a special project, the Islamic Civilisation Centre. It will be a one-stop centre for all relics, exhibits, books, manuscripts, paintings and Islamic miniatures. It will also highlight other art forms like calligraphy, textiles, ceramics, etc.,” shared Temur.
However, he emphasised that the real tourist magnets for the republic were its architecture and heritage, which are still intact and well-preserved. Some of these attractions are in Samarkand, Bukhara, Shiva and Fergana Valley.
“Uzbekistan has been a hub for the Silk Road. We have an Islamic heritage. We are among the safest countries. It provides 93 countries with free visa entry and 57 countries with e-visa. The policy of openness is reintroducing Uzbekistan to the Muslim world.
“Malaysia’s top authority as a Muslim-friendly destination gives us a chance to learn from its challenges and success stories. We can implement them right away in the right portion based on the level of awareness amongst the public and private sector about Muslim-friendly tourism and Muslim-friendly services.”
