Renovated Imam Bukhari complex is emerging as a major destination for pilgrims and tourists
2026-03-25 14:25:00 / News
On March 19, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited this complex, dedicated to the great Islamic scholar Imam al-Bukhari, holds a special place not only in the history of Uzbekistan but throughout the Muslim world. He is the author of one of the most authoritative collections of hadiths – “Sahih al-Bukhari”, recognized as the second most important source in Islam after the Quran.
All necessary facilities have been created for pilgrims. Specifically, a tourist center has been established at the complex. On the adjacent 15-hectare area, modern infrastructure has been developed, including comfortable hotels and service facilities. In particular, one four-star hotel, two three-star hotels, 22 family guesthouses with 176 beds, and a parking area have been built. The facilities are fully equipped with communication networks, and the surrounding area has been landscaped.
As a result, while the Imam Bukhari complex previously received up to 12,000 pilgrims per day, its capacity now allows it to serve up to 65,000 pilgrims daily.
The memorial complex, covering a total area of 45 hectares, has become a pearl of Samarkand and the New Uzbekistan. The complex features a grand mosque with a capacity of 10,000 people, an administrative building, and a majestic aivan in the national style with 154 columns.
Using advanced information technologies, a unique museum comprising nine pavilions has been created. It presents the life and scholarly heritage of Imam Bukhari, recognized in the Islamic world as the “sultan of the muhaddiths,” as well as his contribution to the development of Islamic enlightenment. The museum also enables visitors to learn about the stories of the 25 prophets mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, the genealogy of the Prophet Muhammad, his life in Makkah and Madinah, and the process of collecting and recording hadiths.
Fourteen blue domes and four 75-meter-high minarets give the complex a majestic appearance.
The completed construction work and the conditions created at the Imam Bukhari complex once again confirm the status of Samarkand as one of the most important spiritual and tourist centers in Central Asia.