Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Shahrisabz in 2026 received the international status of World Craft City for embroidery, according to the Dunyo news agency, citing the Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan.
The announcement was made during the closing ceremony of the "Iroqi" international embroidery festival held in the city. Saad Al-Qaddumi, President of the World Crafts Council AISBL (International), officially announced the designation and presented the certificate confirming the new status to the hokim of Shahrisabz, Sherzod Buriev.
The designation reflects international recognition of Shahrisabz's century-old handicraft traditions, in which the national art of "Iroqi" embroidery holds a central role.
The new status is expected to strengthen Shahrisabz's standing in handicraft preservation and cultural heritage protection, while promoting traditional crafts and supporting local artisans. Furthermore, the international recognition is intended to enhance the city's tourism potential and market Shahrisabz internationally as a destination for craft and cultural tourism.
