Abu Bakr Al Kindi announces conclusion of Sharjah Heritage Days
The ceremony featured an introductory video showcasing the event's efforts, followed by a performance of the Palm Symphony operetta. Over 46 supporting, participating, and sponsoring entities were honoured, along with more than 27 working committees and over 100 employees for their dedication.
Looking forward to 2026
Al Kindi expressed gratitude to all workers, government agencies, and visitors, and confirmed that the 23rd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days will take place in 2026.
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Al Etihad
09-07-2025
- Al Etihad
Louvre Abu Dhabi tells fresh narratives as new masterpieces enter its ever-evolving galleries
10 July 2025 01:24 AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)New masterpieces from across centuries and continents have joined Louvre Abu Dhabi's ever-evolving galleries, captivating both first-time and returning new selection includes works from antiquity to modernity, from a 1st-century Roman cameo and a 3rd-century Christian sarcophagus to striking modern compositions by Wassily Kandinsky, Alberto Giacometti, and Antoni the curation was the Scientific, Curatorial and Collection Management team, including Emirati professionals — Amna Al Zaabi, Fakhera Alkindi, Aisha Al Ahmadi, Mariam Al Dhaheri, and Rawdha AlAbdouli — who played a key role in developing the displays. They worked closely with international partner institutions to conduct research, secure loans, and build the collection. In an interview with Aletihad , Alkindi, a senior curatorial assistant at the museum, shares a glimpse of the meticulous process of curating artworks for the exhibition. 'Our role as a museum is to tell the stories of people that have become important from the beginning of history to this day. We always strive … to make sure that every visitor finds himself in the exhibition,' she said.A significant amount of research go into selecting and documenting the artworks, but presenting the narrative to the public is another story, Alkindi said. 'We don't present history from one academic lens; we incorporate multiple perspectives. This allows us to represent our region and others, and present a story that belongs to all of humanity,' she told Aletihad . Louvre Abu Dhabi's latest display features a blend of new acquisitions and prestigious international loans. Every piece that entered the museum had undergone full documentation, Alkindi said. Expanding the Museum's Permanent CollectionThe museum's growing permanent collection now includes a Kota Reliquary Figure from Gabon, attributed to the Sébé River Master of the Skull Head — highlighting global traditions of spiritual guardianship. Another rare addition is a Roman cameo (c. 37–41 CE), possibly portraying Agrippa Postumus, displayed among exquisite gold artefacts.A 5th-century BCE limestone Head of an Ephebe from Cyprus and a richly detailed 16th-century casket from the Kingdom of Kotte (Sri Lanka) further exemplify the museum's cross-cultural paintings include Giovanni Antonio Canal's 'The Rialto Bridge from the South' (c. 1720), Charles Meynier's 'The Farewell of Telemachus and Eucharis' (1800), and a portrait of Siamese ambassador Kosa Pan by Antoine Benoist (1686). A particularly vibrant acquisition is Kandinsky's 'White Oval' (1921), an abstract work demonstrating the artist's deep engagement with colour and form. Strengthening Global Partnerships Louvre Abu Dhabi continues to benefit from strong relationships with international institutions such as the Musée du Louvre, Centre Pompidou, and the National Museum of the Philippines. These partnerships have enabled the display of iconic pieces like the Sarcophagus of Livia Primitiva (c. 250 CE), one of the earliest Christian funerary sculptures, and Portrait of the Artist (1825) by Antoinette Cécile Hortense Haudebourt-Lescot, which affirms her role as a pioneering female the most significant loans is Juan Luna's Una Bulaqueña (1895), considered a National Cultural Treasure of the Philippines. Making its debut outside the country, the painting captures an idealised image of Filipina identity, strength, and powerful bronze figures -Giacometti's Femme de Venise V (1956) and Germaine Richier's L'Orage (1947–48) - explore the modern interpretation of the human figure. These are complemented by Antoni Tapies 'monumental mixed-media work Grand blanc horizontal (1962), which adds a contemporary edge to the museum's storytelling. A Living Museum Chief Curator Jérôme Farigoule emphasised the importance of rigorous research and diversifying the museum's displays.'The museum's narrative is constantly evolving, as displays are switched up regularly,' he said.'While a major rotation takes place every year to enrich the museum's collection, minor rotations take place throughout the year for sensitive artworks that cannot be exhibited for extended periods. Refreshing the collection with newly acquired and loaned artworks creates a new narrative and invites visitors to discover connections between cultures, time periods and artistic expressions,' he added. Through its new acquisitions and loans, Louvre Abu Dhabi continues to serve as a vibrant space for cultural connection, artistic dialogue, and shared human history-proving that art, across time and geography, remains a universal language. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Sharjah 24
01-03-2025
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Heritage Days: A celebration of culture and tradition
For its 22nd edition, the festival reaffirmed its commitment to authenticity by adopting 'Roots' as its theme. This choice reflects a deep connection to Emirati heritage, taking visitors back to the origins that shaped the nation's cultural identity. Expanding beyond Sharjah city, the event unfolded across several locations, including Khorfakkan, Mleiha, Al Hamriyah, Al Dhaid, Kalba, and Dibba Al-Hisn. More than just a cultural showcase, Sharjah Heritage Days serves as a journey through time, seamlessly weaving the past into the present in an experience that celebrates both tradition and modernity. A report from the Sharjah Government Media Bureau highlights the event's significance as one of the region's most prominent cultural and heritage festivals. The festival honours both Emirati and global traditions, offering a diverse range of experiences that include folk arts, traditional crafts, and folkloric performances. These elements provide a deeper understanding of different cultures, bridging the gap between communities and strengthening the appreciation of heritage. Over the years, Sharjah Heritage Days has solidified its place as a key cultural event, drawing heritage enthusiasts annually and fostering connections between diverse traditions from around the world. In its latest edition, the festival once again provided a dynamic and immersive experience, transporting visitors into the charm of bygone eras through art, culture, and storytelling. It remains an inclusive platform where heritage, intellect, and tradition merge, offering a variety of programmes that cater to audiences of all ages. The rhythm of the sea in dance and song One of the festival's highlights was the mesmerising display of Emirati folk art, where traditional dances recounted the tales of sailors and the mysteries of the sea. These performances served as living narratives of the region's rich maritime history, allowing audiences to witness the culture of seafarers come to life. Sailors, or nawakhatha in the local Emirati dialect, performed rhythmic movements inspired by their experiences at sea. Dressed in traditional attire, they infused the dances with authenticity, creating a visual spectacle that transported audiences to the era of seafaring and trade. The performance gave the impression that the dancers were weaving the essence of the ocean into their movements, imprinting their maritime memories onto the sails of dhows—a timeless emblem of the nation's heritage. Throughout the festival grounds, the air was filled with the echoes of traditional songs and chants. Melodies such as Ya Hala Bel Dhaif (Welcome, Guest), Ya Marhaba (Greetings), and Ya Zain (Oh Beautiful One) reverberated, spreading joy and rekindling memories of generations past. The music carried visitors on a journey—one moment sailing across deep waters wrapped in nostalgia, and the next wandering through vast deserts, golden dunes, and Bedouin tents that remain deeply embedded in the region's cultural identity. The hypnotic performance of the Nuban troupe Amid the festival's vibrant atmosphere, the Emirati Nuban troupe, led by Taher Ismail, captivated audiences with their rhythmic and energetic performance. Their choreography blended graceful movements with the resonant sounds of traditional percussion instruments, including the ras, wasat, and shimboh. A particularly striking feature of their performance was the use of the manjoor—a unique belt made of goats' hooves—worn by one of the performers. As he moved, the manjoor produced a distinctive rattling sound, synchronising perfectly with the rhythm of the music. This unique element added an extra dimension to the performance, creating a sensory experience that celebrated both joy and heritage in a spectacular display of Emirati tradition. The art of Talli: A timeless Emirati craft In the fashion corner of Sharjah Heritage Days, traditional Emirati attire mesmerised visitors with its elegance and cultural significance. The dark-hued, meticulously crafted abayas, paired with exquisite silver jewellery shimmering like stars, told a story of heritage and authenticity. Meanwhile, the beautifully embroidered Gulf thobes reflected the refinement and generosity that have long defined Emirati society. Among these intricate designs, Talli, the traditional Emirati handwoven embroidery, stood out as a symbol of craftsmanship and pride. Its delicate patterns, reminiscent of rolling ocean waves, carried echoes of the past, each stitch narrating a tale from generations before. Emirati women have long taken pride in this art, which embodies cultural richness and deep-rooted values. Umm Mohammed, one of the artisans showcasing her work at the festival, emphasised the significance of Talli, highlighting its role in preserving Emirati heritage. Similarly, Aisha Al Hamidi, a skilled Talli artist, captivated onlookers with her exceptional craftsmanship, weaving golden threads that seemed to whisper stories from the past. The fragrance of heritage Walking through the alleys of the heritage market, visitors were greeted by the enchanting aroma of oud, musk, and amber, transporting them to the nights of their ancestors. In the Perfumes Through the Ages exhibition, the senses embarked on a journey through time, revealing the artistry behind perfume-making. Delicately crafted bottles held fragrant secrets, each blend a testament to the skill and creativity of Emirati women who once mixed perfumes at home using a precise combination of flowers, oud, and saffron. At one of the stalls, 70-year-old Umm Abdullah shared her memories with visitors, reminiscing about a time when perfume was more than just a scent—it was an identity. Each fragrance carried a unique signature, marking its wearer with a distinct presence. Palm weaving: An enduring craft In another corner, master craftswoman Fatima Al Shehhi from Ras Al Khaimah demonstrated the ancient art of palm weaving. With remarkable dexterity, she transformed palm fronds into baskets, bags, and mats, much like her grandmother did before her. Palm weaving, one of the oldest handicrafts in the UAE, remains an essential part of the country's heritage. As visitors watched, skilled artisans interwove palm strands with precision, creating intricate designs that turned simple materials into functional and artistic masterpieces. Al Shehhi explained that the process involves softening the fronds before dyeing them in vibrant colours. Once dried, they are woven into elaborate patterns, resulting in unique handcrafted items that embody both tradition and creativity. The legacy of shipbuilding The craft of wooden shipbuilding, one of the UAE's most revered traditions, flourished as an essential industry for centuries. Emirati shipbuilders created sturdy vessels that played a crucial role in maritime exploration, pearl diving, fishing, and trade, connecting the region to distant lands. In the shipbuilding section of the festival, artisans meticulously shaped wood into boats and ships, bringing maritime history to life. These skilled craftsmen used timber imported from India and nearby regions, as well as locally sourced wood such as ghaf, ensuring each vessel's durability. Shipbuilding thrived in the UAE's coastal areas, where generations of craftsmen perfected their trade. The ships carried names steeped in history, each reflecting its function—whether for fishing, transport, trade, or even warfare. Nasser Hassan Al Kas Al Ali, head of the Bin Majid Association for Folk Arts and Rowing in Ras Al Khaimah, listed several traditional ship types, including Awisi, Sam'a, Jalbout, Sambouk, Tabeel, Shahouf, Kutiya, Boom, and Baghla. Exploring the diverse environments of the UAE The festival also offered visitors a glimpse into the UAE's diverse landscapes, recreating the agricultural, maritime, and desert environments that have shaped the nation's identity. Through immersive exhibits, guests travelled through time, experiencing life in palm farms, along the coasts, and in the vast desert. In the maritime heritage section, replicas of old fishing boats stood as silent witnesses to the journeys of Emirati fishermen. These vessels once braved the waves, carrying sailors on long voyages while their families awaited their safe return. This rich seafaring legacy lives on through songs, proverbs, and stories passed down through generations. The maritime exhibit also featured workshops on traditional net-making and rope-weaving, essential skills for fishing communities. In one corner, a craftsman demonstrated the tools and techniques used in ship maintenance, ensuring that maritime traditions continue to thrive. To conclude each day, visitors and artisans gathered to sing spirited fishermen's chants, celebrating a heritage that refuses to fade. Al-Sadu: A craft passed down through generations Nawal Ibrahim Al-Attiyah, a master artisan specialising in Al-Sadu and a representative of the Kuwaiti Heritage Association, shared insights into this traditional weaving craft. With over three decades of experience, she explained that Arab women typically begin learning Al-Sadu at the age of seven, when they have developed the awareness and dexterity needed to master the skill. Within a short period, they become capable of weaving large bayt al-sha'ar (black tents), which provide shelter from the scorching desert sun and the harsh winter cold . Arabian tales woven through craftsmanship Throughout Sharjah Heritage Days, various Arab pavilions showcased a diverse collection of traditional handicrafts, each telling a story etched in time. These crafts, originating from different parts of the Arab world, reflected generations of skilled artisans who have preserved their heritage through intricate and captivating creations . The showcased works stood out for their remarkable precision and unique details, capturing visitors' admiration with their artistic depth. Every piece carried symbols and imagery that transported onlookers through history, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of past civilisations, from the era of the pharaohs to the present day .
Sharjah 24
24-02-2025
- Sharjah 24
"Heart of Sharjah" bids farewell to Sharjah Heritage Days
The closing ceremony, held at Heart of Sharjah, featured a documentary film highlighting the efforts behind the festival's success, alongside a performance of the symphonic operetta "The Palm Tree" and various heritage-inspired artistic performances. Additionally, more than 46 supporting entities, including sponsors and government and private institutions, were honored, along with 27 organizing committees and over 100 employees from the Sharjah Institute for Heritage in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the event's success. More than 100 distinguished guests from 25 countries This year's edition welcomed over 100 distinguished guests from 25 Arab and international countries, including the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Palestine, Tunisia, Algeria, and Lebanon, alongside China, India, Lithuania, Georgia, France, North Macedonia, Russia, Montenegro, Spain, and Germany. Al-Musallam: A milestone edition marked by expansion and innovation Reflecting on the event, His Excellency Dr Abdul Aziz Al-Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, stated: "This year's edition was truly exceptional in every sense. We witnessed significant expansion, new event spaces, remarkable cultural programs, and outstanding publications. Such tremendous success would not have been possible without the unwavering support and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, whose vision ensures that the emirate's rich heritage remains at the forefront of cultural discourse, overcoming all obstacles to its preservation and promotion." He added: "I would also like to commend the remarkable efforts of the organising teams, who worked tirelessly over the past year to plan, coordinate, and execute an event that truly reflects the prestige of Sharjah and its cultural leadership. The festival has not only brought joy and enlightenment to visitors but has also been met with deep appreciation from our distinguished guests, who experienced firsthand the genuine hospitality and generosity of the Emirati people." Planning for the next edition begins Abu Bakr Mohammed Al-Kindi, General Coordinator of Sharjah Heritage Days, emphasised the commitment to continuous growth and excellence: "The remarkable success of this year's edition is both a privilege and a responsibility. It inspires us to aim higher and deliver an even more outstanding experience next year. Planning for the upcoming edition has already begun, with a focus on gathering insights and ideas that will further establish Sharjah as a distinguished heritage destination, alongside its reputation as a hub for tourism, literature, and culture." A grand ginale with cultural panels and book signing The final day featured a series of cultural and heritage performances held simultaneously across three cities—Sharjah, Khorfakkan, and Dibba Al-Hisn. Additionally, the final cultural session included a panel discussion titled "Inspiring Experiences in Cultural Heritage Preservation," featuring experts from Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and Turkey, moderated by Sultan Al-Hammadi. During the session, Dr Mishari Al-Naim discussed tangible and intangible heritage and the methodologies used in Saudi Arabia's National Memory Project. Talal Al-Rumaihi highlighted the importance of documenting and publishing research to safeguard heritage, while Abdul Wahab Al-Khaja stressed the need for systematic training programs in heritage conservation. Dr Alp Arslan Açıkgenç presented his book "Islamic Scientific Traditions in History", and Mohammed Ali Abdullah explored the cultural and historical roots of the Arabian Gulf. Following the panel, the Sharjah Institute for Heritage hosted a group book signing event for its latest publication, 'Roots', which was co-authored by 14 distinguished researchers and academics, including Abdulaziz Al-Musallam, Dr. Mini Bounama, Director of Content and Publishing Department at the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, Ahmed Bin Sarai, Fahd Al-Maamari, Khalid Abu Al-Lail, Maamoun Abdul Karim, Salem Zayed Al-Taniji, Mohammed Youssef, Saleh Al-Luhaibi, Maryam Al-Mazrouei, Atiq Al-Qubaisi, Moza Al-Mansouri, Fatima Al-Mazrouei, and Yahya Al-Abali. "Roots" – A literary reflection of Sharjah Heritage Days As part of its annual tradition, the Sharjah Institute for Heritage releases a book reflecting the themes and highlights of Sharjah Heritage Days. This year's publication, "Roots", explores various heritage topics, including: Sharjah Heritage Days: A Legacy of Roots The Memory of Places in the Writings of Sultan Al Qasimi Emirati Traditions in Majlis Culture: Continuity and Change Proverbs in Different Cultures: Between Tradition and Roots Historical Traditional Markets in Sharjah Preserving and Safeguarding Emirati Cultural Memory The book serves as a comprehensive cultural reference, documenting the insights and scholarly discussions presented during the festival.
