This study examines the relationship between the preservation of cultural heritage and local communities in Uzbekistan’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. As one of the most historically and culturally rich countries in Central Asia, Uzbekistan has been at the center of civilizational interactions due to its strategic location on the Silk Road. The country’s historic cities, archaeological sites, and architectural structures have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and are under international protection. However, the pressures brought by modern dynamics such as tourism, urbanization, and modernization have increased the challenges of achieving sustainable conservation of these heritage sites.

The findings of the study emphasize the importance of active participation of local communities in the preservation of cultural heritage and the economic benefits they should derive from these processes. In historic cities such as Bukhara, Samarkand, and Shakhrisyabz, the daily lives of local communities are in direct interaction with cultural heritage. While tourism contributes to economic development, it also increases the risk of physical and cultural degradation of historical sites due to heavy visitor traffic. Therefore, it is essential to develop sustainable tourism policies to preserve Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage sites. Moreover, modern infrastructure projects have been found to damage the historical fabric, with Shakhrisyabz being placed on the list of endangered heritage sites. The study advocates for a preservation strategy that adheres to international standards and is aligned with national development goals. The inclusion of local communities in this process and the fair distribution of economic gains from tourism play a critical role in the success of conservation efforts.