Bukhara to Host UNESCO Creative Cities Conference
UNESCO has selected the Uzbek city to host the Creative Cities Network's annual conference in 2027.
Updated on Nov. 1, 2026 in Cultural
UNESCO selected Bukhara to host the UNESCO Creative Cities Network annual conference in 2027, with the selection announced ahead of World Cities Day on October 31. Morocco's Essaouira is scheduled to host the network's 2026 annual conference from November 25 to 27.
Why it matters
The selection recognizes Bukhara's membership in the network, which it joined in 2023 under the Crafts and Folk Art category. The network currently includes 408 cities worldwide, and the conference is expected to highlight how culture and creativity can support sustainable urban development.
The UNESCO Creative Cities Network, established in 2004, now includes 408 cities worldwide. Bukhara joined the network in 2023 under the Crafts and Folk Art category, and the exact 2027 conference dates have not yet been published.
The players
UNESCO
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization oversees the Creative Cities Network and announced the Bukhara selection on its official website.
Bukhara
An ancient Silk Road city in Uzbekistan renowned for its medieval architecture and traditional handicrafts, now serving as host of the network's 2027 conference.
The details
The conference will bring together representatives of member cities, policymakers, and cultural and creative industry professionals. Bukhara, located along the ancient Silk Road, is known for its medieval architecture and traditional handicrafts, as well as the Bukhara Biennial of Contemporary Art.
Timeline
2023: Bukhara joins the UNESCO Creative Cities Network
October 31: World Cities Day, ahead of which the selection was announced
November 25 to 27, 2026: Essaouira hosts the network's annual conference
2027: Bukhara hosts the network's annual conference
Cultural Recognition
The UNESCO Creative Cities Network, founded in 2004, has grown to 408 cities that use creativity as a tool for urban development. Bukhara's selection follows its 2023 entry into the Crafts and Folk Art category and places it among the network's leading cultural hubs.
Readers interested in the network can follow the Essaouira conference from November 25 to 27, 2026, as a preview of the annual gathering's format. The Bukhara conference in 2027 will also be a point of reference for cultural travel and events in Uzbekistan.
The takeaway
Cities that invest in heritage and creative industries can strengthen local economies while building global cultural connections. Following the network's conferences offers a window into how that work is being done.
Further reading
Explore more Cultural coverage to see how cities use heritage and creativity for development.
