Inside Uzbekistan’s New Multi Million Dollar Cultural Center

Inside Uzbekistan’s New Center of Islamic Civilization 

After eight years of planning and construction, the Center of Islamic Civilization (CISC) in Tashkent is finally preparing to open its doors in early 2026. Conceived as both a museum and a research institution, the center is designed to celebrate, preserve, and revive Uzbekistan’s deep legacy of Islamic scholarship a legacy shaped by figures like Ibn Sina, Al Biruni, Al Khwarizmi, and countless artisans, astronomers, mathematicians, and historians who emerged from the region.

The Grand Entrance Hall 

A vast marble atrium welcomes visitors beneath a 65 meter dome, decorated with geometric tile patterns inspired by Samarkand and Bukhara. Four monumental portals echo traditional madrasa façades, creating a symbolic gateway into centuries of learning.

Four times taller than the Hollywood sign and around seven times larger than the White House, Uzbekistan’s newest cultural center is a monument of epic proportions. Part museum, part academic research facility, the three-story, $150 million Center for Islamic Civilization (CISC) in Tashkent will be open to the public in March 2026, and is intended to celebrate and revive Uzbekistan’s historical role as a center of Islamic scholarship. “This region has been home to many ancestors who influenced world civilization,” said Firdavs Abdukhalikov, director of CISC.

 “The big question was how to present their influence to the world, to younger generations, in an engaging and modern way.”

The Manuscript Treasury One of the center’s crown jewels is its climate controlled manuscript vault 7th 13th century Qurans, including pages traditionally attributed to the era of Uthman Illuminated manuscripts from the Timurid courts Rare works in astronomy, medicine, mathematics, and philosophy Recovered artifacts returned from international auctions and private collections Interactive displays allow visitors to zoom in on calligraphy, pigments, and notes made by scholars

Restoration Laboratories 

CISC houses Uzbekistan’s most advanced restoration labs, where experts treat. 

• Ancient paper and bindings 
• Textiles and prayer rugs 
• Metalwork and ceramics 
• Archival documents

What’s inside: Museums, Libraries & High-Tech Exhibits 

• The building features four grand portals rising 34 m high and a central dome reaching 65 m a striking blend of traditional Islamic architecture with modern museum design.
• There's an interactive educational zone using virtual reality, augmented reality, and AI, where visitors including children can “talk to” living portrait renditions of historic scholars and thinkers. 
• On the second floor sits a library/research wing housing over 200,000 books, providing scholars (local and international) a space to study Islam, history, science, theology, and cultural heritage. 
• Among exhibits ancient Qurans (including a 7th century manuscript often described as the “Quran of Uthman”), rare handwritten manuscripts produced over centuries by rulers and calligraphers, and artifacts highlighting contributions to astronomy, medicine, literature, and art.

Reviving the past 

While Uzbekistan is a secular nation, Islam is a key part of its history and cultural identity. Arab conquests brought Islam to Central Asia in the 7th century, replacing earlier Zoroastrian and Buddhist traditions, and between the 9th and 12th centuries, the region experienced a golden age of science, literature, and architecture. Medieval Uzbekistan, and the wider Central Asian region, was “a globalized world before globalization,” said historian Farhan Ahmad Nizami, founding director of the Oxford Center for Islamic Studies at the University of Oxford, who’s not connected to the CISC. Uzbek cities like Bukhara and Samarkand were important stops on the Silk Road, a cross continental trade route that stretched from Venice to Xi’an for 1,500 years (130 BCE to 1453 CE), and became a confluence of culture and ideas from both the East and West.

Tremendous potential

While Nizami said the center has “tremendous potential,” he cautioned that “the building is a platform what happens on the platform is entirely different,” stressing that its success depends on long term research, education and cultural engagement.There are criticisms of the center, relating to its cost, the sources of its funding, and the limited religious freedom in the country.

 

Jennifer Lawrence fashion choices

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It happens every time, Lawrence said. I see it happening while I’m shooting, and then I look back at pictures and I’m like, Who is that? Her latest role Grace, a new mother spiraling into postpartum psychosis  left its mark as well. Grace was very influential. I noticed when I started to dress like her, she admitted. Even years later, certain characters stay with her quite literally. When it comes to Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games, it’s the braids that bring her back. I can’t put my hair in a braid without being like, Oh, you want somebody to bring up the movie? she joked. Lawrence starred as Katniss in all four Hunger Games films between 2012 and 2015. Last year, she told Variety she’d be totally open to returning to the role.

That’s a beautifully written celebrity feature warm, vivid, and perfectly paced for a lifestyle or fashion magazine profile. It already reads like something from Harper’s Bazaar or Vogue. If you’d like, here’s a lightly refined version that preserves your tone but tightens flow and rhythm, giving it a slightly more polished editorial edge. The world fell in love with Jennifer Lawrence as the zany 22 year old who tripped on her dress on her way to collect her Oscar. More than a decade later, she’s still as disarmingly charming as ever ut look closer and you’ll notice something different: a new poise, a quiet sense of peace. In 2019, Lawrence pressed pause on Hollywood to focus on life off screen. She married art allegorist Cooke Maronite, and the couple welcomed their first child, a son named Cy, in February 2022.

I just think everybody had gotten sick of me. I’d gotten sick of me, she told Vanity Fair of her self imposed hiatus. “It had just gotten to a point where I couldn’t do anything right. If I walked a red carpet, it was, ‘Why didn’t she run? I think that I was people pleasing for the majority of my life. Now back in the spotlight, Lawrence radiates renewed confidence and fashion insiders have taken notice

She’s become a defining face of the stealth-wealth movement, joining the likes of Sofia Richie, the Succession cast, and Gwyneth Paltrow’s courtroom chic. Think impeccable tailoring, plush fabrics, and a palette of black, white, gray, and camel. “I normally lean toward a more understated elegance and quiet luxury, she says. On this fall afternoon, she sits curled on a couch in a New York hotel suite, embodying the aesthetic to perfection in a black A line midi skirt, a fitted short sleeved sweater, and nude patent pumps. On one wrist, a black Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Bone Cuff catches the light; on the other, a Longines Mini DolceVita watch gleams softly. The launch of that watch is why we’re meeting: Lawrence was recently named Ambassador of Elegance for the storied Swiss brand. You may have seen the paparazzi photos from JuneLawrence wrangling a pack of dogs while filming a Longines commercial the internet swooned over her effortlessly chic navy sweater, long trench, and dainty silver timepiece.

Mariam Mohamed

Who she is

• Mariam Mohamed is 26 years old.
• She was born and raised in Sharjah, UAE.
• She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from University of Sydney.

What’s the milestone 

• She was crowned Miss Universe UAE 2025. 
• In doing so, she became the first Emirate woman to represent the UAE at the Miss Universe pageant. 
• The global competition (Miss Universe 2025) is scheduled for November 21 in Pak Kret, Thailand.

Mariam Mohamed is a visionary bridging academia, art, and advocacy. With a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Sydney and current studies in Fashion Design at ESMOD Dubai, she combines analytical insight with creative expression. “My dream is to reduce global poverty and empower women,” says Mariam a mission reflected in her work and values. She has designed sustainable fashion, contributed to charitable initiatives such as Ramadan Aman and The Giving Family Initiative, and represented the UAE in international women’s entrepreneurship programs. Mariam’s passions embody both heritage and innovation from falconry and camel riding to sustainable fashion and global cultural exchange. Through every pursuit, she carries the UAE’s values of grace, resilience, and forward-thinking, shaping a future where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously.

 

Taylor Swift American Singer

Taylor Swift was always going to shimmer for her first public appearance since buying back her masters after years of negotiating. She finally had complete ownership of her life's work she was going to dress like it. Sure enough, the singer leaned on her preferred loud luxury formula when she met up with Selena Gomez for a celebratory dinner on May 31. First the pop star (and her stylist Joseph Cassell Falconer) selected a black Gucci skirt set lined in silver crystals paired to metallic platform sandal heels and a matte bamboo bag by the same designer. Then she twisted her curls into a low bun the better to show off a familiar 36,000 pair of DeBeers diamond earrings.

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Taylor Swift Reclaims Her Masters in Style Down to the Diamonds 

Taylor Swift was always going to shimmer for her first public appearance since successfully reclaiming her masters after years of negotiations. Dressed for empowerment she marked the milestone with a dinner alongside longtime friend Selena Gomez on May 31. For the occasion, Swift leaned into her signature “loud luxury” aesthetic. She wore a black Gucci crystal lined skirt set paired with silver metallic platform sandals and a bamboo handbag by the same designer. Her hair twisted into a sleek low bun perfectly framed a familiar sparkle a 36,000 pair of DeBeers “Arpeggia” diamond earrings. The name “Arpeggia” riffs on “arpeggio” a musical term for notes played in sequence fitting for Swift who now fully owns the notes of her own legacy. The earrings feature sixty diamonds aligned on 18k white gold with twelve larger stones resembling musical notes on a staff. More than her Cartier watch or symbolic Evil Eye ring this earring set has become Swift’s go to for celebratory moments. She’s worn it at least five times over the past year always when marking a personal or career milestone. In true Swift fashion every shimmer carries meaning.

Several months passed before Swift brought the earrings out again. When she did it was once more in celebration. She wore them for two back to back dinners at New York’s Chez Margaux first for a date night with Kelce pairing 70,875 worth of jewelry with a crystal coated Simkhai coat and Fleur du Mal mini dress. By then, she had been officially declared a billionaire her fortune earned entirely through music and affiliated ventures. Off duty or not her wardrobe read “pop royalty” with every glint. Weeks later Swift returned to Chez Margaux for a girls’ night out with Gigi Hadid. This time she traded shimmer for softness donning a long sleeve bubble dress by Simkhai. Her accessories however remained consistent the DeBeers earrings, a crystalline Dôen bag and Gucci pumps. It was a reminder that while the clothes might change the diamonds and the message remain.

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Food Business Is Most Profitable In USA

 10 Food Business Ideas To Launch Today

1. Food Truck Food trucks offer an excellent opportunity for aspiring restaurateurs, thanks to their lower startup costs and mobility. Unlike traditional restaurants, food trucks can travel to different locations, allowing owners to reach a wider range of customers. Popular menu items such as tacos, burgers, and gourmet sandwiches are ideal for food trucks they’re quick to prepare, crowd pleasing, and easy to serve. This efficiency means you can serve more customers in less time, increasing both customer satisfaction and potential profits. In 2024, more than 60% of millennials reported having eaten at a food truck, high lighting the growing popularity and mainstream appeal of this dining trend. To succeed in the food truck business, it’s important to carve out a unique niche that sets your truck apart from the competition. Whether it’s a creative twist on a classic dish or a specialized cuisine, a distinctive brand and menu can turn your food truck into a local favorite for delicious, on the go meals.

2. Bakery If you have a passion for baking sweet treats and dream of being your own boss, starting a home based bakery could be the perfect opportunity. The best part You don’t need a large investment to get started. With some creativity, careful planning, and a love for baking, you can turn your kitchen into a profitable business. Running a bakery from home offers several advantages. It allows you to keep overhead costs low there’s no need to rent a commercial space or purchase industrial grade equipment right away. This lean startup model means more of your income can go directly toward ingredients, marketing, and growth. Additionally, working from home gives you the flexibility to set your own schedule, making it easier to balance business responsibilities with personal life.

3. Coffee Shop present a fantastic business opportunity. Coffee can be sold at significantly higher profit margins than many other food items, and operating costs are often relatively low compared to full service restaurants. In fact, small coffee shop owners can earn anywhere from 60,000 to 160,000 annually. On a larger scale, the U.S. coffee industry as a whole generates an impressive 70 billion in sales each year, highlighting the strong and steady demand for quality coffee. Owning a coffee shop can be both profitable and personally rewarding especially when managed effectively. As the owner, you’ll be responsible for brewing and serving a variety of coffee and espresso drinks, managing daily operations, and delivering exceptional customer service. A key part of your success will also depend on training your baristas to craft the perfect cup and create a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.

4. Pizza Shop Is the Pizza Business Profitable in the USA? 

Absolutely running a pizza shop is one of the most profitable food ventures in the United States. With its broad appeal and endless customization options, pizza remains a top choice for consumers of all ages. From classic pepperoni to gourmet, artisan style pies, there’s a flavor to satisfy every palate. Pizza is a beloved comfort food, perfect for virtually any occasion birthday parties, game nights, casual dinners, or movie marathons. It’s often the go to menu item that brings people together, making it a staple in American households. The pizza industry has also greatly benefited from the rise of online ordering and food delivery services, allowing restaurants to serve a wider customer base with ease. Effective marketing strategies such as limited time promotions, loyalty rewards, and engaging social media content can further enhance visibility, drive repeat business, and increase overall revenue.

5. Organic Store  A Fresh and Profitable Food Business Idea With growing awareness around health and sustainability, more consumers are seeking out organic foods, making an organic store a timely and profitable business opportunity. Your store can go beyond selling just fresh produce consider offering curated meal kits filled with organic ingredients and easy to follow recipes. These kits make healthy eating more accessible and enjoyable for busy individuals and families. You could also expand your product line to include eco friendly cookware and kitchen tools, appealing to environmentally conscious shoppers. To stand out from the competition, offer personalized services like custom meal planning, organic grocery delivery, and nutrition focused shopping assistance. This hands on customer first approach not only adds value but also helps build lasting relationships and customer loyalty. With the right combination of quality products and personalized service, your organic store can become a trusted destination for healthy, sustainable living.

6. Organic Snacks The trend towards healthier eating has made organic snacks, such as granola bars, nuts, and dried fruits, increasingly popular. By sourcing organic ingredients and promoting health benefits, sellers can capitalize on this growing market and achieve high profit margins.

7. Ice Cream Shop Business Have you ever dreamed of owning your very own ice cream shop Now is the perfect time to turn that sweet idea into a delicious reality. Whether you envision a cozy shop offering nostalgic classics or a trendy sundae bar experimenting with bold, inventive flavors, the possibilities are endless and fun! In the U.S ice cream shops can generate impressive monthly revenues between 20,000 and 50,000, making this not just a feel good venture, but a financially rewarding one too. From crafting signature flavors to building over the top sundaes, owning an ice cream business gives you the chance to be creative while making people happyone scoop at a time. With demand for quality frozen treats on the rise, and endless opportunities for branding and seasonal specials, your shop could quickly become a favorite local destination.

8. Gourmet Coffee A High Profit Opportunity Selling high quality, specialty coffee is a smart and potentially highly profitable business venture. In recent years, the coffee industry has experienced a surge in demand for artisan blends, single origin beans, and unique brewing methods like pour over, cold brew, and siphon coffee. By offering a curated selection of specialty options including flavored coffees, ethically sourced beans, and custom roast profiles you can appeal to a wide and diverse customer base, from casual coffee drinkers to devoted connoisseurs. With the right branding, knowledgeable staff, and attention to quality, your coffee business can stand out in a competitive market and build a loyal following of customers who appreciate a premium brew.

9. Farmer’s Market Starting a vendor stall at a local farmer’s market can be a rewarding venture. You can sell fresh produce, homemade goods, or specialty items like jams and baked goods. Farmer’s markets allow you to connect directly with customers and build a loyal community.

10. Fast Casual Restaurant A Profitable and Growing Opportunity Opening a fast casual restaurant is one of the most profitable food business ventures in the U.S. and it's easy to see why so many entrepreneurs are entering this dynamic and growing sector. With a focus on fresh high quality ingredients and a relaxed yet efficient dining experience fast casual eateries meet the rising demand for meals that are both quick and wholesome. Customers love the freedom to customize their orders whether they’re building a gourmet salad digging into a hearty grain bowl or enjoying artisanal tacos. This personalized approach enhances the dining experience and encourages repeat visits. Fast casual restaurants also offer lower overhead costs compared to traditional full service restaurants making them an appealing option for first time owners. With a compelling concept well crafted menu and smart marketing your fast casual business can carve out a loyal customer base and thrive in a competitive marketplace.

Tips for Selecting a Profitable Food Business 

Choosing the right food business can be challenging especially with so many options in a rapidly evolving industry. However by following these expert tips you can identify a business model that aligns with your goals interests and current market demand. 

•  Research Industry Trends Stay informed about current food trends and consumer preferences. Growing niches such as plant based foods organic products functional beverages and health conscious snacks are great opportunities to explore. 
• Align With Your Passion and Skills Choose a business that reflects your personal interests and expertise. When you’re passionate about what you’re offering you’re more likely to stay motivated overcome challenges and create a standout brand. 
• Assess Startup Costs Evaluate the initial investment required for different types of food businesses such as food trucks, bakeries, cafes or packaged products. Make sure the cost fits within your budget and offers a realistic path to profitability. 
• Understand Your Target Market Clearly define who your customers are. Knowing their needs preferences and spending habits will help you tailor your menu pricing and marketing strategy effectively. 
• Study the Competition Conduct a competitive analysis to identify what others are doing welland where they’re falling short. Look for gaps in the market that you can fill with a unique value proposition. 
• Choose the Right Location If you plan to open a brick and mortar location evaluate potential areas based on foot traffic demographics and rental costs. A great location can drive visibility and sales but be sure to weigh it against your overhead. 
• Test Before You Launch Reduce your risk by testing your product ideas through pop up shops farmers’ markets or online pre sales. Early feedback from real customers will help you refine your concept before a full scale launch.