Aquamarine Projects - Galactika Sports and Cultural Complex

Building a stronger hub for the Kogalym community, Galactika Sports and Cultural Complex offers locals opportunities for connection, recreation and learning.

In the Russian territory of Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug-Yugra, lies the township of Kogalym

Founded in 1975 to service the vast oil fields within the region, it continues to do so today, its most significant employer being Lukoil, one of Russia’s largest companies.

Until recently, the remote nature of Kogalym meant that entertainment, retail and other core facilities that typically promote community were missing for the town’s people.

Nestled in the heart of Kogalym, within the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug–Yugra, the Galactika Sports and Cultural Complex stands as a landmark of sustainable community development. Officially opened in 2016, Galactika was envisioned by Lukoil’s CEO, Vagit Alekperov, as a way to bring world-class facilities to this remote Siberian town, long recognized for its vital role in Russia’s oil industry.<br>

Until recently, Kogalym lacked the entertainment, retail, and cultural amenities typically found in larger urban centers. Galactika was designed to change that, creating an integrated family destination that meets the community’s diverse needs while attracting visitors from across the region.<br>

Covering an expansive area, Galactika offers something for everyone. Its attractions include:<br>
<ul>
    <li>A high-tech aquarium showcasing global marine habitats</li>
    <li>A thrilling waterpark for family fun</li>
    <li>A state-of-the-art cinema and indoor gardens</li>
    <li>A vibrant food court, retail gallery, and welcoming hotel</li>
</ul>
Together, these elements create a comprehensive environment for leisure, learning, and shopping.

Beyond recreation, Galactika also emphasizes education and enrichment. Specialized learning centers focus on marine life, coral reef research, and aquaculture rehabilitation, giving locals and visitors the opportunity to engage with ecosystems and wildlife not naturally found in Siberia.

The creation of Galactika was a truly international collaboration. Our New Zealand and South African-based teams led exhibit and spatial design, while construction was delivered by Erel Gazstroy from Kazan, supported by a Turkish technical design team (SFMM) and over a thousand workers. From concept through to project management, the effort was united by one vision: to provide Kogalym with a world-class community hub.

Since its inauguration, Galactika has become a cornerstone of community life, welcoming over 15,000 visitors weekly from Kogalym and beyond. Its success has inspired an ambitious expansion project, set to increase retail and recreational space by 80%, further strengthening its role as the region’s cultural and social heart.

The Galactika Sports and Cultural Complex not only enriches daily life in Kogalym, but also sets a benchmark for sustainable development in entertainment and community infrastructure worldwide.