Sharjah Award for Cultural Heritage discuss 6th edition’s agenda

November 04, 2025 / 6:44 PM

Sharjah 24: As part of the intensive preparations for the launch of the sixth session of the Sharjah International Award for Cultural Heritage, the Board of Trustees of the Award held an important periodic meeting at the headquarters of the Arab Heritage Center, affiliated with the Sharjah Institute for Heritage. The meeting was chaired by Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, in the presence of Professor Aisha Al Hassan Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Award, and Dr Mohammed Yousef Al Hammadi, Vice Chairman of the Board, in addition to the members of the Board of Trustees: Dr Rashid Ahmed Al Zarouni, Professor Aisha Rashid Bin Dimas, Nasser Abdulkarim Al Darmaki, Dr Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Shehhi, and Professor Khalid Badr Al Budour.

Developmental visions

The meeting discussed a range of key themes, items, and developmental decisions that will enhance the award's global standing and leadership, ensuring its operation according to the highest international standards. The council approved the timeline for the sixth cycle, encompassing the nomination, judging, and winner announcement phases. The meeting emphasized the importance of adhering to the timeframe to enable judges to evaluate submissions accurately and transparently at all stages of the assessment process.

Judging panel

The meeting reviewed the shortlist of candidates for the award's judging panel in its new cycle. The council examined and reviewed the shortlist, which includes a select group of experts and academics specializing in the award's three categories: Narrators, Best Practices, and Studies, from various countries around the world.

Global presence

In the same context, the Board of Trustees meeting discussed the proposed promotional and marketing plan, which aims to expand the award's global reach and enhance its Arab and international presence, focusing on attracting research institutions, stakeholders, and specialists in the fields of heritage and documentation, particularly in the areas of living human treasures and best practices.

Award Handbook

The meeting concluded with a review of the proposed updates and amendments to the Award Handbook, specifically regarding the development of judging criteria and application procedures for the three award categories. The aim is to clarify the requirements precisely, particularly in the area of research and studies, to ensure the quality and distinction of submissions.

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, issued an administrative decree last September establishing the Board of Trustees of the Sharjah International Award for Cultural Heritage. The Board's purpose is to organize the award and solidify its position as a leading international prize in the field of cultural heritage.