LONDON, 29 June. /Dunyo IA/. A presentation highlighting Uzbekistan’s rich historical and cultural heritage and its significant potential in pilgrimage tourism was held in the United Kingdom, aiming to promote the country among an international audience, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

The event was organized in cooperation with Hafsa Gaher, founder of the British company Halal Travel, and Sophie Ibbotson, Brand Ambassador of Uzbekistan Airways in the United Kingdom. More than 50 representatives of the UK tourism industry, tour operators, media outlets, and members of the Muslim community attended the presentation.

Participants were introduced to Uzbekistan as one of the principal centers of the Great Silk Road, a country with a centuries-old history, a rich cultural heritage, and profound Islamic traditions.

Particular attention was given to the country’s sacred sites and the legacy of its eminent Islamic scholars. In this context, attendees learned about the fully reconstructed Imam Bukhari Memorial Complex in Samarkand, which features modern infrastructure and has become one of the largest pilgrimage destinations in the Muslim world.

The presentation also highlighted the newly established Center of Islamic Civilization in Tashkent, which has been recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's largest museum dedicated to Islamic civilization. It was noted that the Center showcases the scholarly heritage of outstanding scholars born in present-day Uzbekistan, along with unique manuscripts, historical artefacts, and modern exhibitions illustrating the development of Islamic civilization.

In addition, participants were informed about Uzbekistan’s ongoing efforts to promote halal tourism, including halal-certified hotels and tourism services, as well as newly developed pilgrimage routes.

The event concluded with an exchange of views between British tour operators and tourism professionals on ways to increase the flow of Muslim visitors to Uzbekistan, further develop pilgrimage tourism, and expand bilateral cooperation in this field.