Sheikh Zayed Mosque Centre Expanded Outreach in Kazakhstan
The centre held academic and cultural events in Astana to promote international tolerance and dialogue.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Islam
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre conducted a series of cultural outreach activities in Kazakhstan. The initiatives included a lecture at Maqsut Narikbayev University and a book donation to the Archive of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to foster greater tolerance, coexistence, and intercultural dialogue between nations. It continues a multi-year effort to share architectural and cultural heritage through international engagement.
The Centre has maintained cultural engagement in Kazakhstan for 8 years and has unveiled 21 mosque models worldwide. These initiatives were executed under the Jusoor programme and the Minarets of the Two Capitals initiative.
The players
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre
This is a UAE-based cultural institution that manages one of the world's largest mosques and oversees international outreach.
Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli
He is a representative of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre who delivered the academic lecture in Kazakhstan.
Maqsut Narikbayev University
This is a higher education institution in Astana that hosted the Centre's lecture.
The details
Coordinated with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy in Kazakhstan, the delegation visited the Astana Grand Mosque. Dr. Yousif Al Obaidli delivered an academic lecture at Maqsut Narikbayev University to advance the mission of intercultural exchange.
Timeline
2012 marked the launch of the original initiative involving mosque models.
2018 saw the commencement of cultural engagement in Kazakhstan.
October 9, 2026, served as the date for current initiatives executed in Astana.
Culture Shift
This initiative follows the framework of the Jusoor programme, which uses cultural diplomacy to bridge international divides. It reflects a shift toward using heritage institutions as conduits for global soft power and tolerance.
The initiative offers students and residents in Astana opportunities to engage with Islamic architectural history. These outreach efforts may increase local access to academic resources and cultural models presented to regional institutions.
The takeaway
Cultural diplomacy programs rely on long-term institutional commitments to achieve measurable influence. Readers can observe how international organizations leverage their physical archives and expertise to foster cross-border relationships.
Further reading
Learn more about contemporary Islam and its role in global cultural dialogue.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Central Asia Times.
