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The 23rd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days kicked off in Al Hamriya under the theme “Glow of Authenticity,” bringing together heritage enthusiasts and community members for a three-day celebration of Emirati culture. The Sharjah Heritage Days event, held from February 6-8 at the Heritage Village overlooking Al Hamriya Creek, was inaugurated under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. Senior officials including Abubakar Al Kindi, Director of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, and Mubarak Rashid Al Shamsi, Director of Al Hamriya Municipality, attended the opening ceremony along with government representatives and local dignitaries.
The festival showcases traditional performances by Al Ayala and Al Azi troupes, heritage workshops, folklore shows, and interactive theatrical performances. Additionally, the event features dedicated sections for productive families and traditional cuisine, alongside competitive activities and prizes for various age groups.
Objectives of Sharjah Heritage Days
According to Mubarak Rashid Al Shamsi, the festival aims to connect past and present while utilizing heritage tools to achieve future accomplishments. The event reinforces national belonging by reviving collective memory and celebrating Emirati cultural identity. Al Hamriya Municipality emphasized that Sharjah Heritage Days provides an appropriate environment for introducing younger generations to their authentic past.
The celebration includes multiple activities organized in collaboration with the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, represented by its president Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam. However, the festival extends beyond mere display, incorporating educational workshops and interactive sessions designed for different age groups and community segments.
Traditional Activities and Community Engagement
Visitors toured the Heritage Village corridors, exploring heritage initiatives and pavilions dedicated to participating government entities and institutions. The opening ceremony featured presentations by traditional craftsmen, a marine corner display, and a video titled “Swalifna Stories” highlighting the importance of connecting generations with their heritage.
Meanwhile, attendees participated in traditional heritage workshops and watched documentary footage illustrating the evolution of Sharjah Heritage Days over the years. The festival also includes competitions such as best traditional costume for children and cultural heritage quizzes presented by Al Hamriya Cultural Sports Club.
Government Support for Heritage Preservation
Al Shamsi praised the continuous support of Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi in promoting heritage and folklore within Sharjah and supporting traditional arts globally. The Ruler of Sharjah’s efforts in establishing heritage and cultural centers worldwide demonstrate the emirate’s commitment to preserving cultural legacy, according to the municipality director.
In contrast to previous years, this edition sees enhanced collaboration among various Sharjah government departments and institutions. Participating organizations include the Social Services Department Al Hamriya branch, Sharjah Aquarium, Al Hamriya schools, Sharjah Classic Car Club, Sharjah Youth, Al Hamriya Cultural Sports Club, and Sharjah Children Foundation.
Cultural Programs and Educational Initiatives
The festival includes theatrical sketches, school performances, poetry recitals, and special programs titled “Dari Rasmaha Zayed,” celebrating the nation’s founding values. Additionally, interactive games and movement-based competitions organized by Al Hamriya departments engage visitors of all ages in heritage-related activities.
Al Shamsi noted that Sharjah Heritage Days has become a civilizational window highlighting the authenticity of the past, the prestige of the present, and a bright future. The event creates a vital platform within Emirati cultural heritage, allowing current generations to explore historical traditions with confidence and pride.
The three-day festival continues through February 8, with organizers distributing gifts and prizes to participants and visitors throughout the event. Authorities have not yet announced plans for next year’s edition, though the annual celebration remains a cornerstone of Sharjah’s cultural calendar.
