Comparison of Uyghurs and Uzbeks: Distinct Ethnicities with Shared Roots Uyghur Bookshelf Uyghurs and Uzbeks are distinct ethnic groups, though they share some cultural and linguistic similarities. Here’s a detailed comparison: Ethnic and Historical Background • Uyghurs: The Uyghurs, a Turkic ethnic group, have a fascinating history rooted in ancient empires and a distinct cultural heritage influenced by their Central Asian roots and Islamic traditions. They primarily reside in the Uyghur Region