Sharjah has announced a major cultural leadership appointment, naming Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi to lead the Sharjah Museums Authority and strengthen the emirate’s global heritage vision.
IMRAN MALIK – SHARJAH NEWS – SGMB
In a significant move to further strengthen Sharjah’s position as one of the region’s leading cultural capitals, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has issued an Emiri Decree appointing Her Highness Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi as Chairperson of the Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA).
The appointment reflects Sharjah’s continued commitment to preserving its rich heritage while expanding museums’ role as centers of education, innovation, tourism, and cultural exchange.
A new chapter for Sharjah Museums Authority
The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is responsible for managing and developing the emirate’s network of museums, which showcase Sharjah’s history, archaeology, Islamic civilization, science, maritime heritage, calligraphy, arts, and natural history. Beyond preserving priceless collections, the authority organizes exhibitions, educational programs, research initiatives, and community engagement activities that attract visitors, students, and researchers from around the world.
With this appointment, SMA is expected to continue enhancing visitor experiences, promoting cultural learning, and strengthening Sharjah’s reputation as a global destination for arts and heritage.
Who is Hoor Al Qasimi?
Born in 1980, Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi is one of the Arab world’s most influential cultural leaders and an internationally respected curator. She is the President and Director of the Sharjah Art Foundation, which she established in 2009 to support artists through exhibitions, commissions, residencies, publications, and educational programs.
A graduate of London’s Slade School of Fine Art, Royal Academy of Arts, and Royal College of Art, she has played a pivotal role in transforming the Sharjah Biennial into one of the world’s most prestigious contemporary art events. She has also curated the UAE Pavilion at the Venice Biennale and was appointed Artistic Director of the 2026 Biennale of Sydney.
Her international contributions have earned widespread recognition, including an Honorary Doctorate from the University for the Creative Arts in the UK. In 2024, ArtReview’s Power 100 ranked her as the most influential person in the global contemporary art world.
Strengthening Sharjah’s cultural vision
Sheikha Hoor’s appointment marks another milestone in Sharjah’s long-standing vision of investing in culture, knowledge, and heritage under the leadership of His Highness Sheik Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. Her extensive experience in museum development, international exhibitions, and cultural diplomacy is expected to further elevate the Sharjah Museums Authority’s role in preserving the emirate’s heritage while expanding its global cultural footprint.
The Emiri Decree was announced on July 7, 2026, underscoring Sharjah’s continued investment in cultural excellence and its mission to inspire future generations through museums, education, and the arts.
Team Sharjah News extends its heartfelt congratulations to Her Highness Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi on her appointment as Chairperson of the Sharjah Museums Authority. We wish Her Highness every success in this prestigious role and continued achievements in advancing Sharjah’s vision for arts, culture and heritage. We also wish her the very best in all her future projects and initiatives.
