Uzbekistan advances New Tashkent construction ahead of 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup
Uzbekistan is making significant strides in the construction of New Tashkent, with a particular focus on key educational, cultural, and sports facilities, as the nation prepares to host the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev recently conducted an inspection of several major projects slated for the city's initial phase.
The President's tour commenced at the New Tashkent Construction Directorate, where officials provided an overview of the project's progress, pinpointed the locations of major facilities, and outlined future development strategies using both a scale model and a digital map of the city. Discussions during this presentation centered on the expansion of transport and utility infrastructure alongside residential and public construction, the seamless integration of green spaces and public areas, and the connectivity between New Tashkent and the existing capital. Plans for implementing all projects under a unified urban development concept, while maintaining architectural consistency, were also reviewed.
Following this, the head of state visited the new campus of the Nizami National Pedagogical University of Uzbekistan, a key component of New Tashkent's first phase. Construction and interior finishing work on the rectorate building and several faculty buildings are nearing completion. President Mirziyoyev examined academic and administrative facilities, utility systems, and landscaping efforts. Officials updated him on construction progress, building equipment, and preparations for commissioning.
The new university campus is designed to be a comprehensive environment, integrating education, research, and student life. It will feature academic buildings, research laboratories, an information resource center, an electronic library, student dormitories, and various sports and cultural facilities. The university also intends to adopt international educational standards and progressively modernize its management system, drawing inspiration from the New Uzbekistan University's experience, including the use of digital platforms for educational process management.
The President also inspected the construction of the new National Library of Uzbekistan, envisioned as a primary scientific and educational institution within New Tashkent. Officials reported that the four-story complex is approximately 90% complete, with its opening anticipated later this year. Spanning over 30,000 square meters, the library will accommodate 1,420 readers simultaneously. It will house specialized facilities for storing, accounting for, securing, and disinfecting book collections, and will offer online access to electronic databases from both national and international libraries. The project also includes amenities for visually impaired users, a 300-seat cafe, a gallery, sports areas, and recreational spaces, aiming to serve as a hub for reading, research, and cultural activities. President Mirziyoyev directed officials to ensure timely completion of construction and finishing work, and to effectively organize library collections, digital services, and visitor facilities.
During his visit, President Mirziyoyev also toured the new campus of New Uzbekistan University. This 50-hectare complex is designed to host up to 10,000 students and will encompass academic and administrative buildings, a library, a museum, exhibition and multimedia halls, a sports complex, a swimming pool, and student dormitories. The campus is intended to foster a unified environment for education, scientific research, innovation, and student life. Officials highlighted that the educational institutions being developed in New Tashkent are expected to bolster the city's scientific and educational infrastructure and enhance students' knowledge and skills.
Finally, the President reviewed the construction of a new football stadium in New Tashkent. This arena, with a capacity of 55,000 spectators, commenced construction in November 2025 and is currently 65% complete. It is slated to be the primary venue for the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup, including the semifinal and final matches. The six-story complex adheres to FIFA requirements and will include facilities for athletes, spectators, and media. The project incorporates over 10 escalators, three training pitches, parking for 5,500 vehicles, and an adjacent metro station. The stadium's design blends modern architectural solutions with national elements, emphasizing green energy technologies, smart management systems, and environmental sustainability. At the conclusion of his visit, the President instructed officials to ensure timely and high-quality completion of construction, and to integrate the stadium seamlessly with New Tashkent's transport network and overall urban development plan.