The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) and the Islamic Civilization Center in Uzbekistan have signed a memorandum of understanding to launch the International Imam Al-Bukhari Award, with the aim of celebrating outstanding contributions to the study and preservation of Islamic civilization, highlighting Imam Al-Bukhari’s scholarly role in the development of Islamic sciences and Hadith studies, and showcasing Uzbekistan’s historical role in the dissemination of knowledge and the promotion of intercultural dialogue.

The signing ceremony took place on Wednesday, 8 July 2026, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, as part of the First International Forum on Islamic Civilization. The MoU was signed by Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of ICESCO, and Dr. Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director of the Center, in the presence of several ICESCO leaders and officials from the Center.

The Award seeks to honor scholars, researchers, international institutions, universities, and cultural organizations whose work contributes to advancing knowledge across the Islamic world, preserving scientific and manuscript heritage, promoting the values of peace and enlightenment, and strengthening dialogue among cultures and civilizations. It also aims to support academic and knowledge-based initiatives that present Islamic heritage through its humanistic and civilizational dimensions.

The terms of the agreement stipulate that the Award be divided into five main categories: outstanding contributions to the study of Imam Al-Bukhari’s legacy; specialized research in Hadith sciences and Islamic studies; preservation and promotion of Islamic manuscript heritage; contributions to Islamic civilization, education, and enlightenment; and contributions to peace, tolerance, and intercultural dialogue, as well as a special award for young researchers.