
SIH takes part in the ‘Make it in the Emirates' Forum
Highlighting role of heritage in shaping national identity
This participation points out the vital role of cultural heritage in shaping national identity. The institute offers a remarkable pavilion that highlights a curated selection of traditional Emirati crafts, including palm frond weaving (khous), Sadu weaving, and embroidery. The programme features interactive workshops and cultural art performances that showcase the richness and diversity of Emirati folk heritage.
Connecting tradition and modernity
Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, the Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, highlighted that the forum serves as an excellent opportunity to showcase the robust connection between heritage and innovation. He observed that the institute seeks to establish a venue through these events that unites heritage and local industry, thus bolstering the national economy with products that reflect genuine Emirati character.
He remarked, 'Our heritage serves as a bridge linking the past to the present.' Our dedication lies in enabling artisans and content creators to transmit this legacy to future generations through sustainable initiatives that harmonise tradition with modernity.
Live demonstrations by skilled artisans
The event includes a curated selection of talented artisans who conduct live demonstrations, highlighting their distinctive skills. This gathering provides guests with a unique chance to witness the processes involved in creating traditional products, along with the methods used to maintain and evolve these crafts to align with modern needs.
The "Make it in the Emirates" Forum serves as a national platform dedicated to advancing local industry and fostering innovation across diverse sectors.
The "Make it in the Emirates" Forum acts as a national platform focused on advancing local industry and fostering innovation across diverse sectors. This event brings together policymakers, creatives, and entrepreneurs to share experiences and explore business opportunities, creating an excellent platform to showcase products that hold cultural and environmental importance.
SIH's contribution to sustainable development
The Sharjah Institute for Heritage actively contributes to the support of national identity through crafts and culture, thereby reinforcing the journey towards sustainable development in the United Arab Emirates.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Gulf Today
22 minutes ago
- Gulf Today
Exhibition unveils Emirati home-based projects
A five-day exhibition 'Bahjat Al Eid' was held which displayed a number of Emirati families' home-based projects and received tremendous response from visitors of all nationalities. The exhibition started on June 1 at Al Barsha Mall, Dubai and was organised by Union Coop with the aim of expanding its community services and providing an integrated shopping experience towards the residents of the emirate. An official said that 'the initiative is aligned with Union Coop's commitment to empowering Emirati productive families by offering them dedicated spaces within its commercial centres to display and market their goods. This practical step aims to transform small-scale ventures into sustainable economic contributors. Through this initiative, Union Coop merges community impact with service innovation, offering high-quality local products in a modern and comfortable shopping environment — adding a new dimension to the customer experience in its shopping centres.' Union Coop affirmed that the Bahjat Al Eid Exhibition is designed to add value for customers by introducing innovative and diverse products from Emirati families. This initiative not only enhances shopping options but also supports the local economy, reflecting the cooperative's ongoing commitment to addressing the needs of its diverse consumer base. The cooperative added that today's customers prefer quality, authenticity, and a shopping experience rooted in national identity. By supporting productive families, Union Coop helps meet these expectations while fostering direct engagement between local producers and consumers. Visitors took part in an Emirati cultural coffee experience. The homegrown Emirati brand, Gahwatna, has launched a one-of-a-kind immersive experiential pop-up in partnership with Union Coop at Etihad Mall. This activation is far more than a coffee offering. It is a cultural movement designed to spark curiosity, enhance identity, and invite the world to experience the essence of the Emirates through all five senses. Pioneering in its concept, the Gahwatna pop-up seamlessly fuses the traditional art of Emirati Gahwa preparation with cutting-edge innovation and sensory storytelling. Visitors are not merely served coffee, they are invited to immerse in the narrative of belonging, memory, and modern heritage. Set within one of the UAE's most trusted community retailers, this initiative signals a new chapter in local entrepreneurship and cultural branding. At Gahwatna, we see Gahwa not just as a beverage, but as a ritual of connection, hospitality, and national pride,' said Ali Mansoor, Chief Executive Officer and creative force behind the brand. 'Union Coop represents the heart of our communities, and launching from here is a symbolic and strategic step in our journey to take an authentic Emirati voice from our home to the world.' Gahwatna is led by its partners Ali Mansoor and Saeed Al Suwaidi. Mohamed Al Hashemi, CEO of Union Coop, visited the pop-up to personally experience what Gahwatna represents. Impressed by the depth and originality of the activation, he extended an invitation for Gahwatna to participate in the grand opening of Union Coop's new Khawaneej branch, where a tailored popup was launched the same day. Jamil Khan, Senior Reporter DUBAI: A five-day exhibition 'Bahjat Al Eid' was held which displayed a number of Emirati families' home-based projects and received tremendous response from visitors of all nationalities. The exhibition started on June 1 at Al Barsha Mall, Dubai and was organised by Union Coop with the aim of expanding its community services and providing an integrated shopping experience towards the residents of the emirate. An official said that 'the initiative is aligned with Union Coop's commitment to empowering Emirati productive families by offering them dedicated spaces within its commercial centres to display and market their goods. This practical step aims to transform small-scale ventures into sustainable economic contributors. Through this initiative, Union Coop merges community impact with service innovation, offering high-quality local products in a modern and comfortable shopping environment — adding a new dimension to the customer experience in its shopping centres.' Union Coop affirmed that the Bahjat Al Eid Exhibition is designed to add value for customers by introducing innovative and diverse products from Emirati families. This initiative not only enhances shopping options but also supports the local economy, reflecting the cooperative's ongoing commitment to addressing the needs of its diverse consumer base. The cooperative added that today's customers prefer quality, authenticity, and a shopping experience rooted in national identity. By supporting productive families, Union Coop helps meet these expectations while fostering direct engagement between local producers and consumers. Visitors took part in an Emirati cultural coffee experience. The homegrown Emirati brand, Gahwatna, has launched a one-of-a-kind immersive experiential pop-up in partnership with Union Coop at Etihad Mall. This activation is far more than a coffee offering. It is a cultural movement designed to spark curiosity, enhance identity, and invite the world to experience the essence of the Emirates through all five senses. Pioneering in its concept, the Gahwatna pop-up seamlessly fuses the traditional art of Emirati Gahwa preparation with cutting-edge innovation and sensory storytelling. Visitors are not merely served coffee, they are invited to immerse in the narrative of belonging, memory, and modern heritage. Set within one of the UAE's most trusted community retailers, this initiative signals a new chapter in local entrepreneurship and cultural branding. At Gahwatna, we see Gahwa not just as a beverage, but as a ritual of connection, hospitality, and national pride,' said Ali Mansoor, Chief Executive Officer and creative force behind the brand. 'Union Coop represents the heart of our communities, and launching from here is a symbolic and strategic step in our journey to take an authentic Emirati voice from our home to the world.' Gahwatna is led by its partners Ali Mansoor and Saeed Al Suwaidi. Mohamed Al Hashemi, CEO of Union Coop, visited the pop-up to personally experience what Gahwatna represents. Impressed by the depth and originality of the activation, he extended an invitation for Gahwatna to participate in the grand opening of Union Coop's new Khawaneej branch, where a tailored popup was launched the same day.


Gulf Business
5 hours ago
- Gulf Business
UAE SMEs remain optimistic amid economic pressures, reveals RAKBANK index
Image: Getty Images/ For illustrative purposes Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the UAE are maintaining a steady sense of optimism despite rising costs and economic headwinds, according to RAKBANK's latest SME Confidence Index. The 2025 report, compiled in partnership with RFI Global, reflects a confidence score of 57, signalling continued resilience in the sector. The findings are based on responses from over 1,200 SMEs across the UAE, surveyed between October and December 2024. While the Index score has declined from 61 in 2023 to 57 in 2024, it remains above the base level of 50, pointing to overall positive sentiment. Also, 68 per cent of SMEs view the future business environment as favourable, and over 60 per cent reported revenue growth in the past two years. 'Small and medium enterprises are the backbone of every thriving economy, and in the UAE, they play a central role in driving diversification and sustainable development,' said Raheel Ahmed, group CEO of Ahmed added that the bank launched the SME Confidence Index in 2024 to capture sentiment, challenges and growth outlook. In a major move to support the SME ecosystem, RAKBANK and Emirates Development Bank announced a strategic Dhs1bn co-financing partnership during the 'Make it in the Emirates' forum, under the patronage of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology. Sector trends and challenges for SMEs Consumer and Retail Services emerged as the highest-performing sector, achieving a confidence score of 60, supported by increased consumer spending and expansion into new business channels. Construction and Manufacturing, Transport, and Trading sectors scored 57, 57, and 58 respectively, showing stable sentiment. However, confidence in Public Services and Professional Services dipped to 56, largely due to higher operating costs and concerns over debt servicing. While more than three in five SMEs recorded revenue increases over the past two years, over two-thirds experienced rising operational expenses. Only 39 per cent expressed confidence in meeting debt obligations, down from the previous year. The report found that smaller SMEs (with revenues up to Dhs30m) had a higher confidence score of 58, while larger SMEs (with revenues between Dhs30–100m) registered a lower score of 55. Digital and sustainable growth in focus Digital transformation continues to gain ground among UAE SMEs. Some 22 per cent now sell products or services online, while 45 per cent use digital banking channels monthly. In parallel, sustainability is becoming a growing priority, with 55 per cent of While navigating ongoing challenges — including the corporate tax regime introduced in 2024, demand for credit, and operational pressures — many SMEs are investing in technology, talent and market expansion to strengthen their competitive edge. 'The sector's forward-looking mindset is especially encouraging,' Ahmed noted. 'We're seeing increased focus on entering new markets, investing in talent, and modernising payment infrastructure. We see our role as a partner in that journey, providing not just financial solutions but also the advisory support needed to help them grow with confidence.'


Gulf Today
15 hours ago
- Gulf Today
Sharjah and China strengthen cooperation and partnership
Sharjah Asset Management, the investment arm of the Government of Sharjah, has concluded a strategic visit to the People's Republic of China. The visit aimed to strengthen international cooperation and expand partnership opportunities between the two countries in the areas of research and development, knowledge exchange, and the exploration of promising opportunities in new sectors. This initiative is part of the broader efforts to enhance bilateral relations between the UAE and China and contribute to driving sustainable development in the Emirate of Sharjah. During the visit, Sharjah Asset Management signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with (CICC), in the presence of Sheikh Saud Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Deputy Chairman of Sharjah Asset Management; Omar Al Mulla, CEO Ossol Investment; Saeed Sharar, CEO Ossol investments; along with a group of CEOs and directors from Sharjah Asset Management, and a delegation representing the Bank of China. Sheikh Saud Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, stated:'This agreement marks a new starting point for a fruitful collaboration with CICC. This partnership will open new horizons for research, investment, innovation, and the exchange of expertise and knowledge between both parties. It will also pave the way for meaningful achievements across key sectors such as finance, technology, and sustainable development, ultimately contributing to long-term economic progress.' A spokesperson from (CICC) affirmed that the partnership with Sharjah Asset Management reflects the company's commitment to strengthening Acooperation between China and the UAE, and to exploring new opportunities that this partnership offers—particularly in the fields of research and development. 'By leveraging our mutual strengths, we can address challenges and seize opportunities within our respective markets, while expanding our reach across regional and international markets,' the spokesperson stated. The Memorandum of Understanding outlines a joint commitment to collaborate on innovative research projects aimed at delivering practical and sustainable solutions that benefit both the Emirati and Chinese economies. It further seeks to enhance growth opportunities in vital sectors such as technology, financial services, environmental sustainability, and sustainable investment strategies. The MoU establishes a solid framework for joint research initiatives designed to foster innovative solutions and drive long-term, sustainable growth. The Memorandum of Understanding is expected to result in a series of joint initiatives, including the organization of specialized workshops and seminars, as well as the implementation of applied research projects that align with the strategic priorities of both parties. The focus will be on sustainable investment practices and innovative solutions that generate long-term economic benefits. This partnership reflects the shared vision of both sides to enhance international cooperation, achieve sustainable economic growth, and build strong strategic relationships. It lays the foundation for future partnerships that will further strengthen the economic ties between China and the United Arab Emirates. The company's delegation visited 23 leading Chinese companies across various key sectors to explore investment and cooperation opportunities. Among the visits were the Beijing Opera House and Stadium, accompanied by the Dafa Industrial Group. The delegation also explored the latest LiDAR technologies by 'Seyond', a leader in this advanced field, and examined promising investment opportunities and applications in the automotive and transportation sectors. During visits to ' and ' the delegation was introduced to potential collaboration in the fields of artificial intelligence, autonomous mobility, and robotaxi technology. The delegation also visited 'Ding Dong Limited' in Shanghai, a company specializing in the delivery of fresh foods, where they explored best practices in logistics, warehouse management, facilities management, and e-retail. Additionally, they visited 'H World Group', which operates over 11,000 hotels across 19 countries, to gain insights into hotel operations and discuss potential expansion and partnership opportunities in the Emirate of Sharjah. The UAE and China enjoy strong economic and trade relations, with China being the UAE's largest trading partner and the UAE remaining China's largest partner in the Middle East and North Africa region. Nearly 15,500 Chinese companies have operated in the UAE markets so far. Separately, Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ) recently concluded a multi-city business mission across China, further solidifying its role in advancing UAE-China trade and investment relations. The delegation participated in several high-level B2B engagements, the prestigious 'UAE – China (Sichuan) Economic & Trade Cooperation Promotion Conference' event, hosted by the Embassy of the UAE in Beijing, as well as the Invest UAE Roadshow in Guangzhou led by the UAE Ministry of Investment. WAM