The article analyses the pre-conditions, current state and projected trajectories of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into Uzbekistan’s higher-education system. Drawing upon a systematic review of 312 peer-reviewed articles, a two-round Delphi study with 22 national experts, institutional surveys covering 15 universities (n = 420) and multiple case studies, the paper identifies four dominant research clusters—adaptive learning, learning-analytics, generative academic support and AI ethics—and benchmarks domestic progress against leading international implementations. Empirical findings show that student AI adoption in Uzbekistan rose from 31 % in 2024 to 57 % in 2025, yet only 10 % of public institutions report fully integrated AI strategies. Key barriers include insufficient broadband capacity (< 100 Mbit s⁻¹ in 40 % of campuses), shortage of AI-literate faculty (0.8 specialists per 1 000 students) and limited regulatory guidance. Comparative evidence from Arizona State University and SeoulTech confirms measurable gains in grade-point averages (+0.2) and a 19 % reduction in course-completion times. The study proposes a phased roadmap (2025-2030) focused on infrastructure upgrading, compulsory AI-literacy modules, two-tier ethical governance and industry–academic laboratories. Implementing these measures could raise the share of AI-enabled courses to 35 % and improve Uzbekistan’s position in the Government AI Readiness Index by at least ten ranks.