The inaugural Tanweer Festival, led by visionary Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, concluded with a memorable finale. Over 6,000 attendees experienced the festival’s debut, held from November 22 to 24. Sharjah’s Mleiha desert became a hub of cultural enlightenment, artistic expression, and shared humanity.
Vision of Sheikha Bodour
Under the theme “Timeless Echoes of Love and Light,” inspired by Rumi’s philosophy, the festival offered a blend of music, poetry, art, and immersive experiences. Sheikha Bodour’s vision turned the historic Mleiha desert into a unique cultural stage, delivering a message of unity, creativity, and sustainability.
The festival’s slogan, “Your Journey Begins Here,” resonated with attendees, transforming the three-day event into a profound exploration of heritage, nature, and humanity’s shared connection.
Sheikha Bodour expressed her gratitude:
“Tanweer Festival has proven to be a powerful movement, transcending boundaries through creativity, thought, and connection to heritage and nature. Together, we have shown that unity and creativity can illuminate the path to a more compassionate, sustainable, and conscious world.”
Highlights of Tanweer Festival 2023
The final day showcased world-class performances, including a spellbinding concert by Dhafer Youssef, the acclaimed oud master. His fusion of jazz and world music under the vast desert sky created an atmosphere of pure enchantment, uniting the audience through ancient rhythms and contemporary melodies.
At the Tanweer Marketplace Stage, spoken word and music came alive with performances by poets like Baraka Blue and Emirati filmmaker Nujoom Al Ghanem. Their evocative words added depth to the festival’s message of cultural unity.
The Tree of Life Stage featured Hassan Hakmoun, a renowned Gnawa musician known for his powerful vocals and sintir mastery. His performance transported listeners deep into Moroccan traditions, creating an unforgettable cultural experience.
A Legacy of Unity and Sustainability
The Tanweer Festival is more than a cultural celebration; it is a movement toward sustainability and conscious living.
The festival’s thoughtful programming and stunning desert setting bridged cultural gaps and deepened connections with nature. Its successful debut set a high standard for regional cultural festivals. Tanweer reflects Sheikha Bodour’s vision of unity, creativity, and sustainability.
