Latest news with #SharjahClassicCarsFestival
Sharjah 24
06-03-2025
- Automotive
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Old Cars Club shines at Berlin Travel Market 2025
1977 Porsche 911 Carrera G: A timeless sports masterpiece As a highlight of its efforts to promote the Sharjah Classic Cars Museum, the club presented a rare 1977 Porsche 911 Carrera G, captivating visitors with its exquisite design and powerful engineering. Limited to just 3,687 units worldwide, this classic sports car boasts a top speed of 230 km/h and features reinforced bumpers that meet American safety standards. Its unique blend of elegance and performance continues to make it a prized possession among vintage car collectors across the globe. Expanding global collaborations in classic car tourism During its participation at ITB Berlin, the club actively engaged with key players in the classic car industry, fostering discussions on knowledge exchange and collaborative opportunities. This engagement not only strengthened Sharjah's presence in the vintage automobile sector but also positioned the emirate as a cultural tourism hub that appeals to classic car enthusiasts from Europe, particularly Germany. Promoting Sharjah's largest vintage car festival In addition to its exhibition, the club showcased one of its most prestigious events, the Sharjah Classic Cars Festival, the region's premier gathering for classic automobile enthusiasts. The most recent edition, held in February, featured over 400 vintage cars from various eras and countries, offering visitors a range of experiences, including exhibitions, interactive displays, competitions, panel discussions, and exclusive awards recognising the finest classic vehicles. Germany's automotive legacy and its global influence Saeed Ali Al Matroushi, board member of Sharjah Old Cars Club, highlighted Germany's pioneering contributions to the global automotive industry. He noted that while many iconic German car models originated in local factories, they have since gained worldwide recognition, becoming coveted collector's items in countries like the UAE. Al Matroushi also emphasised that the club's participation at ITB Berlin served as an opportunity to establish meaningful connections with manufacturers, historians, and classic car enthusiasts who share a passion for preserving the legacy of these exceptional automobiles.
Gulf Today
21-02-2025
- Automotive
- Gulf Today
Classic cars
People around the world have a separate place in their hearts for classic cars. The reason of that, in any era, owning a car remains the top dream of all and love to enjoy it in life ('Classic cars dating back to 20th century on display in Sharjah,' Feb.14, According to the report, The Sharjah Classic Cars Festival (SCCF 2025) returned for its highly anticipated second edition, bringing together industry experts, classic car enthusiasts and collectors to celebrate automotive heritage. Held under the theme 'Where the Story Begins,' the festival runs until Feb.17 at the Sharjah Old Cars Club (SOCC) headquarters, offering visitors a unique experience that blends history, entertainment, and education. On the day of valentine, Feb.14, people showed their love for classic cars with their presence at the Sharjah Classic Cars Festival. The presence of a huge number of classic car lovers at the highly anticipated second edition of the Sharjah Classic Cars Festival, made the extravaganza one of the favourite festivals in the United Arab Emirates.
Sharjah 24
16-02-2025
- Automotive
- Sharjah 24
SCCF brings online passion for vintage cars to life
Social media is redefining car culture At the 2nd edition of the Sharjah Classic Cars Festival (SCCF) , Fayyad Al Dosary, an avid car collector, stressed that online platforms have transformed interest in classic vehicles. 'Social media has played a major role in reviving interest in vintage cars, bringing their unique charm back into the spotlight,' he said. 'One of the main reasons young people today are drawn to modern cars is the influence of platforms like YouTube and social media. But new models' rising prices and lack of distinctive character have led some to seek more unique alternatives.' Online platforms have turned classic cars into a visual statement, attracting younger audiences drawn to their individuality. According to Al Dosary, modern cars have become too similar in design. 'Unlike modern vehicles, classic cars have a distinct character that makes them stand out. In the past, each car had its own identity. Today, most look quite similar, which is why many young people searching for individuality are turning to classic cars.' Online spaces are shaping how collectors learn Mansour Al-Mannai believes online communities have changed how young collectors engage with the hobby. 'There are two types of young people interested in classic cars. Some have enough experience to handle repairs by learning online or seeking help from friends who share their passion and knowledge. Others prefer to rely on specialised repair workshops, trusting the expertise of professionals.' These conversations, once limited to small groups of collectors, now unfold in real-time across social media. Tutorials on YouTube show step-by-step restorations. Facebook groups provide instant feedback on mechanical issues. Online marketplaces allow collectors to track down rare parts with a few clicks. The authenticity debate is more visible than ever Digital platforms have also fueled a growing debate over authenticity. Some enthusiasts argue that classic cars should remain untouched, while others believe modifications are necessary to enhance performance and reliability. Ibrahim Shamsi believes that preserving originality is key. 'A classic car holds greater value and authenticity in its original condition,' he said. 'Preserving them without alterations is best unless necessary.' However, he acknowledges that younger enthusiasts have different preferences. 'Some emphasise enhancing performance by upgrading the engine and drivetrain, while others prioritise aesthetic changes.' Classic cars are turning into smart investments Beyond passion, the accessibility of information online has also made classic car collecting more appealing as an investment. Ahmed Al Tamimi sees classic cars as both a passion and a lucrative investment. With a decade of experience, he notes rising demand, especially for vintage pickup trucks, which have secured a strong market position. 'Classic cars represent a thriving investment sector,' he said. 'Some rare models fetch over AED 100,000, depending on age, authenticity, and design.' Bringing online passion to the real world While online platforms have revived interest in classic cars, the Sharjah Classic Cars Festival, now in its second edition, transforms online discussions into real-world connections. Enthusiasts who engage in digital forums come together to exchange expertise, showcase restorations, and experience the craftsmanship of vintage cars firsthand. The festival cements Sharjah's role as a hub for classic car culture, proving that passion for these timeless machines thrives in the real world beyond the screens.
Gulf Today
15-02-2025
- Automotive
- Gulf Today
Classic cars dating back to 20th century on display in Sharjah
The Sharjah Classic Cars Festival (SCCF 2025) returned for its highly anticipated second edition, bringing together industry experts, classic car enthusiasts and collectors to celebrate automotive heritage. Held under the theme "Where the Story Begins," the festival runs until Feb.17 at the Sharjah Old Cars Club (SOCC) headquarters, offering visitors a unique experience that blends history, entertainment, and education. The five-day event was launched in the presence of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Statistics and Community Development in Sharjah; Sheikh Saud Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of the Sharjah Digital Authority; Sheikh Salem Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, and Ali Salem Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah International Airport Authority; and Dr Ali Ahmed Abu Al Zoud, President of SOCC. They were joined by automotive enthusiasts and experts from across the region. The opening ceremony included a tour of festival grounds and the classic cars on display, including two historically significant vehicles: a 1988 two-door Range Rover Classic once owned by the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and a 1988 four-door Range Rover belonging to the late Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. These iconic cars serve as a testament to the rich legacy of the nation's leadership, adding a profound historical dimension to the exhibition. This year, the festival features over 400 rare classic cars, some dating back to the early 20th century, highlighting the event's richness and significance as one of the most specialised gatherings in the region. The festival programme includes expert discussion panels, entertainment activities, interactive competitions, dedicated food and beverage areas, and an exclusive auction for rare classic cars, offering collectors the opportunity to bid on unique models and secure exceptional deals. As part of the inaugural day, a panel discussion titled "Passion or Business? The Art of Collecting Classic Cars" featured Ahmed Bin Mohammed Al Jarwan, Mohammed Bin Dakhin Al Matroushi, and Salem Bin Salem Al Suwaidi. The discussion explored key considerations in selecting a classic car, whether as a passion or an investment and highlighted the most sought-after brands among enthusiasts in the region. The session also examined how a passion for classic cars can evolve into a profitable business, stressing that ownership is not exclusive to people with financial means, as enthusiasm for the sector transcends social barriers. Additionally, experts shared insights on accurate valuation methods and effective investment strategies in the classic car market. During the session, Ahmed Bin Mohammed Al Jarwan emphasised that classic car collecting is more than an appreciation of culture or heritage; it reflects personal taste and brings unique enjoyment to owners. He said: 'At its core, this field is a hobby, and any commercial activity that emerges from it supports a passion that has gained global recognition through auctions and specialised publications.' Mohammed Bin Dakhin Al Matroushi underscored the importance of joining SOCC and benefiting from its members' expertise. He noted that modifying classic cars requires skill and creativity, with certain modifications preserving a vehicle's original value. While acknowledging the commercial potential of the classic car market, he stressed that success requires in-depth knowledge and expertise to achieve profitable returns. Salem Bin Salem Al Suwaidi highlighted classic cars' nostalgic value and growing global demand. He noted that collectors from the US and Japan are willing to pay high prices to reclaim rare models. Emphasising the need to preserve a car's authenticity during modifications, he called for expert committees to assess vintage vehicles, especially inherited ones, ensuring their true value is recognised by official bodies like courts and banks. During the opening ceremony, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Humaid Al Qasimi and Dr Ali Ahmed Abu Al Zoud honoured the event's strategic partners and sponsors, including Arabian Gulf Mechanical Centre - BMW, Emirates Auction, Sharjah Islamic Bank, and the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority.
