Elvira Kadyrova, Tamir Shakirov
The International Exhibition-Fair KIDS EXPO: Everything for Children has opened in Ashgabat. Traditionally held in the final days of summer, the large-scale event brings together educational centres, sports federations, children’s fashion brands, manufacturers of school supplies, baby food producers and children’s hygiene brands.
The opening ceremony was attended by Nokerguly Atagulyyev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Turkmenistan, Chairperson of the Parliament Dunyagozel Gulmanova, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mergen Gurdov, government and state-sector officials, heads and representatives of foreign diplomatic missions, as well as creative groups and media representatives.
Honoured guests toured the exhibition halls, exploring the main displays, which range from educational platforms to government institutions.
A significant part of the exhibition is devoted to national culture and the continuity of generations. The Arkadag City zone adds a distinctive cultural touch to the event. Young participants in traditional dress not only welcomed visitors but also hosted workshops. At miniature looms (yüp), girls learned the art of Turkmen carpet weaving under the guidance of experienced instructors.
At the creative-industry stands of ‘Ýürek Nagmasy’ and ‘Amantay Mebel’, visitors could see designer collectible dolls dressed in national costumes, handmade felt products, traditional children’s cradles (sallançak) and cosy, stylised furniture.
Among the exhibitors is the Embassy of Iran, showcasing carpets, metalwork, traditional costumes and toys.
The pavilions highlighting the country’s latest educational trends are likely to attract particular interest from both adults and young visitors. These include large interactive zones presented by the American Center, STEM, the French Institute of Turkmenistan, ‘Kämil Bilim’ and many other organisations. Children browse colourful educational and fiction books, test programmable robots, solve problems on interactive screens, work with molecular models and even conduct biology experiments. A planetarium is also located near the STEM zone.
One of the stands that caught our attention was that of the ‘Children for a Million’ business school. According to the centre’s specialists, its programmes teach teenagers financial literacy, leadership, business thinking and public speaking — in short, the practical skills that can help them build successful professional careers in the future. The school describes itself as a pioneer and leader in soft-skills education, focusing on social and interpersonal abilities that help young people communicate effectively, work in teams and manage their time and resources, regardless of their chosen profession.
For schoolchildren and university students, the expo features a dedicated ‘Back to School’ section offering educational materials, stationery and school clothing.
Alongside serious topics such as career guidance and children’s health, KIDS EXPO also offers plenty of entertainment. Next to the ‘Hünäriňi Saýla’ career guidance area, the READIT brand has created a Harry Potter-themed photo zone complete with house-themed props, robes and a Platform 9¾.
Interactive areas hosted by sports federations — including the Football Federation, Basketball Federation and Taekwondo Federation — have become major attractions for young sports enthusiasts. Young footballers gathered around the AFC Challenge League tournament area, while aspiring basketball players tested their skills on a mini-court.
The theme of children’s health and wellbeing is also represented by food producers and family-oriented services. The ‘Khrutka’ brand has set up a fairground-style shooting gallery featuring a windmill and animators, while healthy-food brand Vertera presented its Smart Child range. The Kalleh stand draws visitors with desserts and yoghurts. New products are also being showcased by Sleepy, American Tourister, Zarp and Turkmen fashion brand Däp.
Children’s safety is the focus of a stand dedicated to KidsWay, a taxi service operated by Ussat Sürüji.
The KIDS EXPO 2026 programme is rounded out by performances from children’s dance groups, shows featuring jugglers and magicians, as well as appearances by costumed mascots and giant LEGO figures.
The KIDS EXPO 2026 exhibition-fair will continue its programme, offering residents and visitors to the capital a diverse mix of activities, interactive experiences and entertainment. ///nCa, 19 August 2026.
Here are some photos from the event:
