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This year’s edition of the Days promises an exceptional experience under the theme "Roots", highlighting the authenticity of Emirati heritage and showcasing the deep cultural and historical connections that bridge the past and present. Through a diverse array of activities and events, the festival will celebrate traditions, customs, and cultural heritage, reinforcing national identity and fostering intergenerational dialogue.
The festivities will extend across seven cities in the Emirate of Sharjah, starting in Sharjah City from February 12 to 23, before moving to Khorfakkan, Mleiha, Hamriyah, Al Dhaid, Kalba, and Dibba Al-Hisn. This expansion offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage in diverse environments across the emirate.
His Excellency Dr. Abdul Aziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, emphasised that Sharjah Heritage Days reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, in preserving heritage and strengthening cultural identity for future generations. He highlighted how the event has grown beyond a traditional celebration of Emirati heritage to become an international platform for cultural dialogue and the preservation of global heritage.
Dr. Al Musallam explained that this edition aims to offer a more immersive and interactive experience for visitors by introducing new event spaces, launching unique cultural projects such as the ‘Book Market’ and the ‘Library Centennial Celebration,’ and expanding participation from folk groups, artisans, and artists. He further noted that the increasing international presence at the festival reflects Sharjah’s role as a cultural hub and a leader in heritage preservation on a global scale.
Abu Bakr Al Kindi, General Coordinator of Sharjah Heritage Days, emphasised that SHD continues to evolve into a knowledge platform that honors the past, engages the present, and embraces the future. He invited the public to participate in this vibrant and enriching celebration, which seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, reinforcing Sharjah’s status as a cultural capital that values its heritage while shaping the future.
This year’s edition will feature participation from over 26 countries, including GCC nations, as well as Morocco, Palestine, Iraq, Egypt, Syria, China, Russia, Germany, France, Georgia, and the Netherlands. This broad international engagement reinforces Sharjah’s commitment to cultural exchange and collaboration, further solidifying its reputation as a global capital for culture and heritage.
More than 30 governmental, academic, and cultural institutions will be involved, including ministries, heritage organisations, and international entities such as UNESCO, ICCROM-Sharjah, the International Organisation of Folk Art (IOV), and the International Council of Organisations of Folklore Festivals (CIOFF). This institutional backing highlights the festival’s growing prestige, attracting global experts and scholars in the field of heritage preservation.
One of the major highlights of this edition is the inauguration of "Al Soor Square," a newly dedicated venue for cultural activities, alongside the centennial celebration of Sharjah’s first library, established in 1925. Additionally, the event will feature the launch of the "Book Market," bringing together over 12 libraries and six publishing houses, offering a platform to celebrate literary heritage.
The festival will also showcase live demonstrations by 150 artisans from around the world, along with the largest Al-Ayyala folk performance, featuring 300 folk artists. The artistic program includes the "Palm Symphony" operetta, the play "Mawa’id Arqoub," and the children’s theater production "Island of Wishes."
The 8th GCC Dama Championship, a traditional strategy board game competition, will be hosted during the event. Additionally, three major exhibitions will take place, including the "Roots" Exhibition, which explores Sharjah’s historical milestones in education, traditional markets, and medical practices. The "Scents Through the Ages" Exhibition will document the evolution of perfumery across civilizations, while the "A Century of Libraries" Exhibition will highlight Sharjah’s literary and archival heritage dating back to 1925.
The festival will bring together 27 folk groups, including seven Arab groups, 15 Emirati groups, and five international groups from India, Russia, Georgia, Macedonia, and Montenegro, representing the diverse range of folklore traditions worldwide.
A rich intellectual and cultural program will accompany the festival, featuring 14 academic lectures and 15 book launches, alongside cultural café discussions and the International School of Storytelling, providing scholars and researchers with an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions on heritage and contemporary cultural issues.
To ensure a seamless visitor experience, 500 additional parking spaces have been added, along with a dedicated Heritage Days Train to transport guests across the venue. A comprehensive logistical support system, including security, medical assistance, and emergency response teams, has been put in place to accommodate the high number of attendees.
The 22nd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days promises to be a unique celebration of tradition and innovation, offering visitors a deeply immersive experience in heritage, culture, and artistic expression. Through its diverse and dynamic programming, the festival continues to position Sharjah as a global leader in heritage preservation, fostering dialogue and understanding between cultures, and celebrating the richness of human history in a contemporary setting.
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