Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced the establishment of an Islamic Civilization Center in 2017, aiming to create a global cultural institution reflecting the country's contributions to science and culture. By 2025, the Center has evolved into a platform for international dialogue, showcasing Central Asia's historical intellectual influence. It has formed partnerships with institutions worldwide, returned significant artefacts, and emphasizes storytelling over nostalgia. The Center aims to reshape perceptions of Uzbekistan from a historical trade crossroads to a cornerstone of global knowledge.