UAE secures cultural achievement in Gulf singing contest

Sharjah24: The United Arab Emirates achieved a new cultural milestone with Emirati nahham (traditional sea chanter) Mohammed Ali Al Ashar Al Suwaidi winning second place in the fifth edition of the “Nahham Al Khaleej 2025” competition. The event was organized by the Katara Cultural Village Foundation as part of the Katara Prize Festival for the Art of Nahma, held in Doha, Qatar, from April 12 to 16.

Sharjah Team Participation

The UAE was represented by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage through the “Zeenat Al Sharjah” troupe, with performances by nahhams Mohammed Al Ashar Al Suwaidi and Obaid Mubarak Al Suwaidi. Their standout performance impressed the jury with its adherence to the traditional style of the nahma art form.

Heritage Experts Present

The participating delegation included Ali Khamis Al Ashar Al Suwaidi, an expert in artistic heritage, and Nasser Al Bannai from the Corporate Communication Department at the Sharjah Institute for Heritage.

Celebrating Maritime Identity

“Nahma” is one of the most prominent traditional vocal arts linked to the maritime and pearl diving heritage of the Gulf region and is considered an integral part of its cultural identity.

Ongoing Cultural Commitment

This participation reflects the Sharjah Institute for Heritage’s continuous efforts to preserve and pass on folk arts and traditions to future generations.