The conference, held from July 7 to 10 under the theme "Oral Traditions in a Changing World: From Live Performance to Digital Media," presented a progressive model for utilising scientific research to serve heritage. It combined profound theoretical grounding with the horizons of digital innovation, within a cultural vision that believes preserving heritage is not limited to its mere preservation, but extends to renewing the means of its presence and ensuring its continued impact on human consciousness.

The conference was not merely an academic forum for exchanging research papers; it served as a platform for developing future visions on oral traditions and fostering integration among cultural institutions, universities, and research centres. This integration reinforces the status of heritage as a cornerstone of national identity and a living memory for nations.

A scientific dialogue embracing the future

Throughout its scientific sessions, the conference addressed a range of intellectual and methodological issues related to oral traditions. These ranged from establishing the foundations of their concepts and cultural functions, to exploring the challenges of preserving them in the digital age, and finally, to employing artificial intelligence and modern technologies in collecting, documenting, archiving, and analysing them. The conference also showcased Arab experiences that enriched the discussion and presented practical models for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.

The scientific deliberations reflected a high level of specialisation, and the conference witnessed interaction among researchers and experts, which enhanced opportunities for knowledge exchange and opened new horizons for developing more effective policies and practices for preserving oral heritage.

Knowledge as a foundation for heritage preservation

In a continuation of its scholarly role, the conference witnessed the signing of 35 new publications in the fields of heritage, popular culture, and specialised studies. This reflects the research activity led by SIH and its role in enriching the Arabic library, enhancing specialised scholarly production, and establishing a culture of authorship and documentation as a cornerstone of heritage protection and sustainability.

Sharjah establishes a renewed Arab vision for preserving heritage

His Excellency Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of SIH and Head of the Conference, affirmed that the third edition achieved its scholarly and intellectual objectives and solidified the conference's position as a specialised Arab platform for dialogue on issues of intangible cultural heritage. He noted that the high-quality research papers, in-depth scholarly discussions, and diverse expertise of the participants reflect the maturity this scholarly initiative has reached since its inception.

Al Musallam stated that the conference's recommendations represent the culmination of a collective scholarly effort and serve as a starting point for developing high-quality programs and projects that contribute to enhancing research, documentation, and preservation efforts. He emphasised that oral traditions are not merely heritage preserved in archives, but rather a living memory pulsating with the values and identity of societies. He added that preserving them necessitates maintaining their authentic contexts and empowering the communities that carry them forward, while utilising digital media and artificial intelligence as supporting tools to ensure the transmission of this human legacy to future generations.

Al Musallam added that SIH will continue to develop the conference in its upcoming sessions, keeping pace with global transformations in the field of heritage and reinforcing Sharjah's position as an Arab centre for knowledge production and scientific research in the field of cultural heritage.

Praise for the conference's civilisational message

Dr Rashid bin Ahmed Al Mazroui, the conference's honouree, expressed his pride in the recognition he received, affirming that this appreciation represents a renewed responsibility to continue serving national heritage and working to preserve and protect it for future generations. He praised the scientific content of the conference and the profound insights and unique experiences it presented, emphasising that this scholarly event embodies SIH's mission to transform cultural heritage into a dynamic knowledge project that strengthens identity, preserves collective memory, and connects the past with the horizons of the future.

Recommendations lay the foundation for a new phase

In the concluding statement, Professor and researcher Mohammed Saeed Al Belushi from Qatar reviewed the most prominent recommendations of the third session, explaining that they represent a guiding framework for cultural, academic, and research institutions, reflecting scientific outputs that can be transformed into practical programs and initiatives.

The recommendations stressed the importance of developing digital platforms, expanding field documentation programmes, and utilising artificial intelligence applications in collecting, archiving, and analysing oral heritage while preserving its uniqueness and authenticity. They also emphasised supporting scientific research, strengthening partnerships between cultural institutions and universities, integrating oral heritage into educational curricula, empowering youth to contribute to its preservation and transmission, and expanding Arab and international cooperation in the field of intangible cultural heritage.

A conclusion that embodies the message of heritage

The closing session honoured scholars, researchers, speakers, and participants in recognition of their scholarly contributions that enriched the conference proceedings and contributed to its success.

The events concluded with a heritage performance by the Sharjah National Troupe, showcasing various aspects of Emirati folk arts in a vibrant display of authenticity. This performance underscored that oral traditions are not merely documentation but a dynamic cultural practice, preserved in collective memory and passed down through generations as a vital manifestation of national identity. Professor Mariam Al Shaloubi also presented musical pieces that embodied the profound connection between heritage and modernity.

The success of the third Heritage Conference is a continuation of Sharjah's cultural and civilisational project, which aims to make culture and heritage a cornerstone of human development and solidifies the emirate's position as a global centre for heritage preservation, knowledge production, and the promotion of Civilisation dialogue among peoples.