During the visit, the delegation received a detailed presentation on the project's concept, its stages of development, and the artistic and calligraphic works it houses, documenting the evolution of Arabic calligraphy through the ages. The project also presents an innovative vision that brings together authenticity and contemporary creativity.

Diwani Sharjah is an architectural project that offers an unconventional approach to integrating Arabic calligraphy into the built environment. It showcases the aesthetic qualities of the Arabic letter within a contemporary architectural context, reinforcing its presence in the cultural and creative landscape.

The building was designed as a visual expression of the close relationship between Arabic calligraphy and architecture, representing one of the world's first architectural experiences to make the Arabic letter a fundamental structural and design element.

It features a diverse collection of works from both traditional and contemporary schools of Arabic calligraphy, alongside rare artworks and historical pieces documenting the rich heritage of this ancient art. Together, these create a comprehensive cultural and artistic space celebrating the Arabic letter as one of the defining elements of Arab and Islamic civilisation.

A valuable addition to the cultural and creative landscape

Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam praised Diwani Sharjah as an important addition to the cultural and creative scene, noting that the project offers an exceptional example of how Arabic calligraphy can move beyond its traditional function to become a living element in both architectural and artistic expression.

He said: "Diwani represents a unique cultural and creative experience that combines the authenticity of Arab and Islamic heritage with the spirit of contemporary innovation. It offers an inspiring model that highlights the beauty of Arabic calligraphy and its ability to enrich modern architectural spaces, reinforcing its status as one of the foremost symbols of our civilisational identity."

An Emirati model with international recognition

Dr Al Musallam added that initiatives of this kind demonstrate the importance of investing in cultural projects that reinterpret heritage through innovative approaches suited to the modern era. He described Diwani Sharjah as a creative vision that transforms heritage into a source of renewal and inspiration.

He also noted that the project's international recognition, including three prestigious global awards, reflects its artistic and cultural significance while demonstrating the ability of Emirati creatives to produce pioneering work that earns worldwide acclaim and strengthens the international presence of Arabic calligraphy and Arab culture.

A distinguished creative career

Hisham Al Madhloum is regarded as one of the UAE's leading cultural and artistic figures. Over several decades, he has played a significant role in supporting the country's visual arts and cultural sectors, holding numerous leadership positions within cultural and artistic institutions. He is widely recognised for creative projects that combine art, heritage and innovation.

Diwani Sharjah has attracted considerable attention both locally and internationally and has recently received three major international awards in recognition of its architectural and artistic excellence. These include the Loop Design Awards, after topping the global public vote for Best Contemporary Architectural Design; first place in the Vision Architizer Awards in the United States for Best Contemporary Architectural Photography; and the award for Best Residential Architectural Project from the Sharjah Department of Town Planning and Survey for 2024.

The project has also been honoured by four countries: Egypt, China, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia.

As an individual initiative within the Emirate of Sharjah, Diwani Sharjah contributes to promoting knowledge and appreciation of the visual arts, particularly architecture and design.

An art museum within an architectural space

Inside, Diwani Sharjah houses around 200 calligraphic and artistic works created by more than 85 calligraphers and artists representing a wide range of Arab, Islamic and international schools. The collection includes rare works by leading masters of Arabic calligraphy, together with historical artefacts such as pieces of the Kiswa of the Kaaba and inscriptions executed on a variety of materials.

The building also features large-scale murals and calligraphic artworks by prominent artists, including Nja Mahdaoui, Abdulqader Al Rais, Dia Al-Azzawi, Khaled Al Saai and Mohammad Nabati, alongside contemporary works specially commissioned to complement the building's architectural spaces.