Sharjah: Al Bait Al Gharbi at the Heart of Sharjah hosted a press conference where the Higher Organising Committee announced the details and launch of the 23rd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days. The event is set to occur from 4th to 15th February under the theme "Radiance of Authenticity," and was attended by Sheikha Nawar bint Ahmed Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Art Foundation; Fernando Figueirinhas, Ambassador of the Portuguese Republic to the UAE; along with a vast representation from traditional and digital media.
According to Emirates News Agency, the press conference deviated from conventional formats, unfolding as a cultural experience featuring a short theatrical performance, live folk dances, and on-site displays of traditional crafts. Attendees explored heritage exhibits reflecting everyday Emirati life, providing a comprehensive introduction to the upcoming edition's themes, which are rooted in tradition yet presented in a contemporary context.
Ambassador Fernando Figueirinhas expressed Portugal's pride at being chosen as the guest of honour for this edition, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the UAE and Portugal. He described it as a celebration of the deep cultural and civilisational ties shared by the two nations.
The organising committee revealed that Sharjah Heritage Days will extend across seven cities and areas: Sharjah, Khor Fakkan, Kalba, Dibba Al Hisn, Mleiha, Al Dhaid, and Al Hamriyah. This geographical spread highlights the event's inclusive nature and strong community presence.
Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, stated that the 23rd edition marks a qualitative leap in both scale and content. The event will see participation from 27 countries, with over 265 artisans presenting 40 traditional crafts, 20 folk chants, and 41 Arab and international folk groups delivering a total of 1,173 performances.
Dr. Al Musallam further elaborated on the programme, which includes more than 307 workshops, 57 educational programmes, 41 live performances, five training courses, 19 awareness initiatives, and 70 heritage competitions. Notably, 21 new activities will be introduced for the first time.
He highlighted the varied intellectual programme through the Cultural Caf©, which will feature 14 lectures, 15 book signings, cultural launches, theatrical performances, heritage cinema screenings, creative photography, fine art competitions, and live painting corners.
Dr. Al Musallam emphasized that this year's edition features 21 entirely new activities not seen in previous editions. These include innovative competitions and programmes for children, an expanded range of Emirati craft workshops, and the launch of an interactive map supported by artificial intelligence to assist visitors in navigating events and venues.
Abu Bakr Al Kindi, Director of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, stated that Sharjah Heritage Days will present a comprehensive programme highlighting the richness of both local and global cultural heritage. This edition will see the launch of the first commemorative postage stamp for the event, alongside heritage cinema, live art zones, immersive exhibition spaces, fine art installations, and creative competitions in photography and painting.
The programme will also include the Heritage Days Kitchen, a traditional water carrying competition; children's corners for learning popular games; horse and camel caravans; and live camel chanting, offering visitors an authentic look into traditional ways of life.
Al Kindi mentioned that the event is supported by 118 local government entities and eight international organisations, including global cultural institutions. Sharjah Police and the Sharjah Civil Defence Authority will serve as security partners, while Sharjah Broadcasting Authority and the Sharjah Government Media Office are the official media partners.
He confirmed that the service infrastructure is ready, including over 500 additional parking spaces, the Heritage Days train service, land and sea transport from Dubai and Sharjah, heritage markets, participation by productive families, food trucks, and the Heritage Days Kitchen.
With this cultural and organisational momentum, Sharjah Heritage Days continues to strengthen its position as one of the region's and the world's leading heritage events, reaffirming Sharjah's commitment to safeguarding human heritage and transforming it into a living bridge that connects the past with the present while looking confidently towards the future.