The 22nd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days (SHD) will kick off on February 12 and run until February 23, 2025, offering a dynamic celebration of Emirati traditions and global cultural exchange.
This year’s festival, themed “Roots,” will feature a variety of exciting activities across seven cities in Sharjah.
Highlights include live artisan demonstrations, folk performances, major exhibitions, the centennial celebration of Sharjah’s first library, and participation from over 26 countries.
Visitors can also look forward to interactive cultural projects, academic lectures, and a traditional board game competition, all designed to celebrate the rich cultural heritage that unites the past, present, and future.
Celebrating heritage across seven cities
The festivities will span seven cities across the Emirate of Sharjah, starting in the city of Sharjah before expanding to Khorfakkan, Mleiha, Hamriyah, Al Dhaid, Kalba, and Dibba Al-Hisn. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore Sharjah’s diverse heritage in different settings, highlighting the region’s rich cultural traditions and its role as a hub for heritage preservation.
Library Centennial Celebration
This year’s edition will bring several new features and projects aimed at enhancing the festival experience. Notable additions include the “Book Market,” a space bringing together libraries and publishing houses, and the “Library Centennial Celebration,” marking 100 years since the establishment of Sharjah’s first library in 1925. These initiatives reflect Sharjah’s ongoing commitment to preserving cultural heritage while also embracing modernity.
The festival will also offer interactive cultural projects, including live demonstrations by 150 artisans from around the world, and the largest Al-Ayyala folk performance with 300 artists. Additional highlights include performances such as the “Palm Symphony” operetta and children’s theater production “Island of Wishes.”
A global cultural platform
With participation from over 26 countries—including nations from the GCC, Morocco, Palestine, Iraq, Egypt, Syria, China, Russia, Germany, France, Georgia, and the Netherlands — the festival is set to be a truly international event. More than 30 governmental, academic, and cultural institutions, including UNESCO and other heritage organizations, will also be involved, further enhancing its global reach.
Major exhibitions and competitions
The festival will feature three major exhibitions. The “Roots” Exhibition will explore Sharjah’s history in education, traditional markets, and medical practices. Another exhibit, “Scents Through the Ages,” will take visitors on a journey through the evolution of perfumery, while the “A Century of Libraries” exhibit will showcase Sharjah’s literary heritage.
Additionally, the 8th GCC Dama Championship, a traditional strategy board game competition, will take place during the event. These exhibitions and competitions aim to enrich the cultural experience for attendees while promoting knowledge and engagement with heritage.
In addition to the cultural activities, the festival will feature a robust intellectual program. This will include 14 academic lectures, 15 book launches, and cultural café discussions. The International School of Storytelling will offer a platform for scholars and researchers to engage in discussions about heritage and contemporary cultural issues, further cementing Sharjah’s position as a cultural leader.
Heritage Days Train
To ensure a seamless experience for visitors, the festival will offer additional services including 500 new parking spaces and a dedicated Heritage Days Train to transport guests across the venue. Enhanced logistical support, including security and medical assistance, will be available to accommodate large crowds throughout the festival.
Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, shared the significance of the event, stating, “Sharjah Heritage Days reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, in preserving heritage for future generations. This year’s edition will offer a more immersive experience and showcase Sharjah’s role as a global leader in cultural dialogue and heritage preservation.”
Abu Bakr Al Kindi, General Coordinator of SHD, emphasized the evolving nature of the festival, saying, “Sharjah Heritage Days continues to be a platform that honors the past while engaging the present and future. We invite everyone to join this enriching celebration that blends tradition with modernity.”
With its expanded programming, global participation, and focus on preserving cultural heritage, the 22nd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days promises to be a memorable and immersive experience for all attendees.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
