Dushanbe Wins Title of Asian Cultural Capital 2026

Tajikistan's capital Dushanbe has officially been awarded the title of Asian Cultural Capital 2026 by the Assembly of Asian Mayors (AMF).

The announcement was made during the closing ceremony of the “Golden Brick” festival in Tehran, where the AMF held its three-day meeting, The Caspian Post informs via Tajik media.

Tehran Mayor Alireza Zakani revealed that in 2026 three major themes will be highlighted across Asia: ecology, tourism and culture. Dushanbe was selected as the Cultural Capital, Baghdad as the Tourism Capital, and Dubai as the Ecological Capital.

At the 11th meeting of the AMF Executive Council, the Tajik capital also strengthened its role in regional urban diplomacy. As the acting chair city of the Forum, Dushanbe opened the session with an address from Mayor Rustam Emomali.

Following the vote, the city was once again elected AMF Vice President, underscoring its growing political influence and active engagement in regional initiatives.

The Dushanbe delegation also presented several projects at cultural and economic panels, sharing insights on urban development, cultural policy, and the growth of creative industries - further boosting the city’s presence in international professional forums.