Sharjah Heritage Days wins praise from the Arab world

As the 23rd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days draws to a close, the event continues to receive widespread praise from visitors and audiences across the Arab world.

Many described it as a well-established cultural platform dedicated to showcasing Arab heritage through a contemporary vision that balances authenticity and renewal.

Emirati citizens expressed pride in the role the event plays in strengthening a comprehensive cultural project that preserves national identity while remaining open to Arab and global cultures. They also commended the high level of organisation and the diversity of pavilions and programmes.

Visitors and participants from several Arab countries noted that the current edition reflects the richness of the region’s folk heritage through artistic performances, traditional crafts and interactive activities. These programmes have attracted families and introduced children to traditional professions, clothing and cuisine, helping to strengthen younger generations’ connection to their roots.

Guests from the Gulf and Arab countries also praised the event’s role in fostering cultural exchange among people. They said the heritage atmosphere revives collective memory and brings traditional lifestyles in the region back to life.

Arab writers, media professionals and cultural figures highlighted the diversity of the current edition, particularly the quality of its events and specialised seminars on intangible heritage and preservation methods. They noted that strong public turnout reflects the success of Sharjah’s cultural vision in cementing its position as a permanent centre for Arab culture.

Overall, Emirati and Arab visitors agreed that Sharjah Heritage Days has become a highly anticipated annual event for heritage enthusiasts.

It offers a space to celebrate the past, draw inspiration from its values and build the future, supported by scientific programmes and interactive activities that enrich the visitor experience.

Meanwhile, Sheikh Saeed Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Deputy Chief of Sharjah Ruler’s Office in Khorfakkan has inaugurated the 23rd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days in Khorfakkan in the presence of officials and a large public audience.

The festivities were hosted in Al Zubarah Old District, selected to revitalise historic neighbourhoods and highlight values of authenticity and national identity, as part of ongoing efforts to preserve cultural heritage and strengthen its presence within the community.

Held under the theme Glow of Authenticity, this year’s programme reflects the connection between past and present across cities in Sharjah.

The three-day event features folk performances, live heritage workshops, craft exhibitions, home-based producers and personal museums documenting traditional life.

The opening ceremony was attended by Abu Bakr Al Kindi, alongside local officials, dignitaries and large crowds of visitors.

Sharjah Heritage Days continues to serve as a cultural platform that strengthens national identity and fosters a sense of belonging among younger generations, keeping Emirati traditions alive.

The Sharjah Heritage Days celebrates both tangible and intangible heritage, affirming the presence of its theme, “The Glow of Authenticity,” across the details of its diverse activities and daily-life experiences.

These range from local, Arab and international food culture to traditional dances, music and folk songs, mythical tales, intellectual programmes and various markets - including the book market, or “Katateeb Market,” located near the theatre in Al Ayyam Square in the heart of Sharjah.

The market adds a luminous touch, enlightening minds and hearts through the publications on display from participating publishing houses, including Al Qasimi Publications, Dar Sadiqat, Dar Qissa, Dar Aram, Dar Kalemon, Dar Al Dhaby, Dar Al Turath Al Shaabi, Dar Nabati, Dar Hind, Dar Bu Malha and Dar Ghaf.

The “Al Murooth Library” also appears in its own corner, showcasing books issued by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, including new titles signed by their authors at Bait Al Naboodah.

Together, these publishers enrich the cultural scene, broaden awareness, develop language, stimulate imagination and revive the fragrance of earlier times, with special attention to children and young people by offering books suited to all ages across intellectual, literary, narrative, poetic, research and documentary genres.

These publications are presented in a traditional style that recalls the historic Arab “warraqeen” book markets.

WAM