SIH launches "Arab Heritage Cities Conference"

The conference, taking place over three days from December 16 to 18, brings together 50 experts and academic researchers representing 19 Arab countries, including the UAE, Iraq, Lebanon, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Syria, Morocco, Sudan, Yemen, Mauritania, Qatar, Kuwait, Tunisia, Libya, Palestine, Oman, and Bahrain, alongside a special exploration of Arab influence in Macedonian cities.

Cultural Festivities and Celebratory Launch
The opening ceremony featured a traditional performance by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage’s cultural troupe, showcasing the rich and diverse heritage of Sharjah and the region. Attendees were also treated to two documentary films: “Planting Heritage,” which highlights the SIH’s ongoing efforts in preserving and passing down cultural heritage to future generations, and “Harvesting Heritage,” which spotlights the Institute’s numerous achievements over the past decade.

Additionally, His Excellency Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam launched the book “A Decade of Heritage,” a detailed chronicle of the Institute’s milestones, initiatives, and contributions to cultural preservation since its inception. On this occasion, key authors and contributors to the Sharjah Institute for Heritage's publications were also honored for their significant role in documenting cultural heritage.

A Vision for Preserving Arab Identity
In his keynote speech, His Excellency Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, underscored the pivotal role of Sharjah in safeguarding architectural and cultural heritage. He stated:

“From decades ago, Sharjah ignited the first spark in heritage preservation under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. The establishment of the ‘Heritage Unit’ in 1987 marked the beginning of an organized effort to protect heritage sites and revive traditional architecture. This effort expanded with the creation of the ‘Heritage Department’ in 1995, which laid out policies and strategies for urban conservation projects.”

He continued, “In 2014, the Sharjah Institute for Heritage was established as an academic and scientific reference to train specialists in restoration and preservation. Over the years, Sharjah’s efforts, enriched by global expertise, have created a unique school of restoration that balances modern technology with traditional techniques, setting a benchmark in urban conservation for the Arab world.”

Dr. Al Musallam further highlighted Sharjah's exemplary restoration projects, including Heart of Sharjah, Sharjah Fort, Bait Al Naboodah, and Al Masjid Al Jami, showcasing how these initiatives have transformed Sharjah into a cultural hub. “Our goal is to preserve these historical sites not merely as structures but as living reflections of our traditions, values, and identity. Sharjah stands as a beacon for cities that successfully integrate heritage with modern development, ensuring cultural sustainability for future generations.”

A Model for Sustainable Heritage Preservation
Dr. Mini Bounama, Director of Content and Publishing Department at the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, emphasized Sharjah’s unique approach in bridging modernity with tradition. He stated:

“Sharjah has proven that urban development and cultural preservation can coexist harmoniously. Our approach reflects a commitment to maintaining architectural heritage while implementing modern solutions that enhance the cultural and economic value of our cities.”

The conference also features two parallel exhibitions: “Sharjah, City of Heritage,” showcasing the emirate’s exemplary achievements in restoration and conservation, and a display of academic journals dedicated to cultural heritage, including Popular Culture (Bahrain), Folklore Studies (Qatar), Popular Culture (Egypt), and Al-Murooth (UAE).

A Comprehensive Program of Knowledge Exchange
The conference agenda includes multiple scientific sessions and workshops focused on successful Arab experiences in urban heritage preservation, exploring challenges and solutions to safeguard historical cities. It further addresses topics such as:
• “The Cultural Identity and History of the Arab City” – exploring ways to preserve the architectural identity amidst modernization.
• “The Old Arab City: Between the Past and the Present” – examining urban development and its effects on historic Arab cities.
• “The Modern Arab City: Challenges of Preservation and Progress” – discussing how to integrate traditional architecture with contemporary urban advancements.
• “Preservation Projects: Between Development and Destruction” – highlighting successful restoration projects and addressing risks posed by unplanned urban development.
• “Future Horizons for Arab Cities” – envisioning innovative solutions to achieve sustainability and maintain cultural identity.

International Participation and Collaboration
Four prominent regional and international organizations—ICCROM-Sharjah, ALECSO, ISESCO, and the National Institute of Archaeology and Heritage—are contributing to the conference. Their involvement ensures a rich exchange of global expertise and strategies to promote cross-cultural cooperation in preserving Arab heritage.

A Legacy of Cultural Leadership
The “Arab Heritage Cities Conference” reinforces Sharjah's role as a leading cultural and heritage capital. From its recognition as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World in 1998 to its designation as World Book Capital in 2019, Sharjah continues to inspire global admiration for its dedication to heritage preservation, cultural innovation, and sustainable development.

The conference serves as a critical platform for dialogue, fostering solutions that balance preservation with progress, ensuring that Arab cities remain proud symbols of identity, history, and future aspirations.