Sharjah Heritage Days returned for its 22nd edition. His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi inaugurated it at the Heritage Area in the Heart of Sharjah.
The event welcomed H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah. Also present was H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.
Organized by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, this year’s festival embraces the theme “Roots.” It draws participants from local, Arab, and international communities. Upon arrival, the Sharjah Ruler was greeted with folk performances. Bands like Al Nadba, Al Ayala, Al Harbiya, and Al Habban performed.
The event showcases Sharjah’s rich cultural heritage. It features three major exhibitions. The “Roots” Exhibition explores the emirate’s history. “The Journey of Perfumes” traces the perfume industry’s evolution. Meanwhile, “A Century of Libraries” highlights Al Qasimia Library’s legacy. It covers its journey from Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr bin Khalid Al Qasimi’s era to today.
This year’s edition spans seven cities. These include Sharjah City, Khorfakkan, Mleiha, Al Dhaid, Kalba, Dibba Al Hisn, and Al Hamriyah. Exciting new attractions enhance the experience. The centennial celebration of Sharjah’s first library is a highlight. A Booksellers Market features over 12 libraries. Additionally, the UAE’s largest Al-Ayala band performance will involve 300 folk artists.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of events. Live artistic performances, theatre workshops, and folk craft demonstrations will engage audiences. Cinema screenings add another cultural dimension. The cultural café will host Emirati heritage discussions. Esteemed local researchers will lead the conversations. Moreover, book launches and signings will take place.
The Emirati Crafts Centre will bring together 150 craftsmen from around the world. Meanwhile, the Arab Heritage programme will feature a roundtable discussion with UNESCO experts. The International Storytelling School programme will present engaging activities and performances.
Sharjah Heritage Days
Sharjah Heritage Days also offers interactive experiences. Workshops, youth councils, and traditional craft training courses will engage participants. Folk arts from Gulf and international communities will be displayed. Saudi, Iraqi, Yemeni, Georgian, and Russian groups will perform.
Participants from GCC countries and Arab nations will further enrich the event. Countries such as Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Palestine, Tunisia, Algeria, and Lebanon will showcase their cultural heritage.
