Sharjah announces early launch of ‘Light Village’

The Emirate of Sharjah is preparing to welcome the 15th edition of the Sharjah Light Festival 2026, the annual flagship event that brings together art and creativity in celebration of Emirati culture and heritage. The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has announced the early launch of Light Village, running from 29 January until 22 February 2026, ahead of the festival’s official opening ceremony on 3 February 2026. During this period, the emirate will be illuminated by artistic and light displays that transform its landmarks into living canvases, continuing until 15 February 2026.

Light Village will open early starting today, 29 January 2026, and will run until 22 February 2026. A popular seasonal destination under the umbrella of the Sharjah Light Festival, the village will this year present a rich and interactive programme that, for the first time, extends into the first few days of the holy month of Ramadan, bringing the total duration to 25 days.

Light artworks

The village features a collection of light artworks and illuminated installations by international artists, a dedicated children’s play area, and a variety of interactive activities and programmes designed for visitors of all ages.

Commenting on this, Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, said: "Light Village complements the vision of the Sharjah Light Festival through the creative experiences and activities it offers, adding a vibrant artistic dimension to the emirate’s landmarks and reinforcing Sharjah’s position as a dynamic cultural, tourism and arts destination.

"Through this initiative, we present a fully integrated family entertainment destination that meets the expectations of residents and visitors to Sharjah from within the UAE and abroad, while also supporting youth initiatives and national projects. This contributes to stimulating the local economy, strengthening the ecosystem of creativity and innovation, and supporting economic and community activity linked to the tourism and commercial sectors.”

Al Midfa added: "We are keen for the festival to deliver a positive and sustainable long-term impact by empowering entrepreneurs, supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises, and reflecting the cultural, artistic and family-oriented spirit that defines the Emirate of Sharjah, in line with the emirate’s vision for comprehensive and sustainable development centred on people.”

This year’s edition of Light Village will see the participation of a large number of diverse national small and medium-sized enterprises, offering a wide range of experiences and options tailored to the interests of visitors to both the village and the festival.

Light Experience Exhibition

More than 75 national projects will take part, including food and beverage outlets, retail concepts and other ventures, providing a welcoming platform for start-ups and established brands alike. This further reinforces the festival’s role in supporting local entrepreneurs and creating an interactive platform that contributes to Sharjah’s long-term economic and community development.

Among the highlights of the village is the Light Experience Exhibition by Japanese artist Yasuhiro Chida, who will present a collection of distinctive light artworks offering interactive visual experiences that blend light, art and technology. These immersive sensory experiences explore themes of creativity, community interaction and sustainability, and are designed for audiences of all ages. Tickets for this exhibition are available at the event venue.

Sharjah Light Festival

The official opening ceremony of the Sharjah Light Festival 2026 on 3 February marks the formal launch of the light shows and interactive experiences across the emirate. This year, Sharjah will host light displays and artistic experiences at 13 different locations, including Dr Sultan Al Qasimi Centre, Al Majaz Waterfront, Aljada, Sharjah Mosque, Kalba Waterfront, Khorfakkan Waterfall, Dhaid Fort, Kalba Hanging Gardens, Al Tayari Mosque, Al Hamriyah Market, Al Rafisah Dam, House of Wisdom, and Sharjah Fort.

The light displays and interactive experiences narrate a story that began over 200,000 years ago, etched into the rocks of Mleiha, Jebel Faya and other archaeological sites once inhabited by early humans.

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