Latest news with #SharjahLightFestival
Campaign ME
29-04-2025
- Business
- Campaign ME
Time is the currency of experiences
In an era where time is increasingly precious, the rise of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) – intelligent systems that autonomously handle tasks, make decisions and adapt to real-time needs – will revolutionise how people live. By freeing individuals from mundane chores, agentic AI creates more opportunities for adventures, experiences, connection and engagement, generally, and also with brands. Agentic AI is transforming daily life by taking on repetitive tasks that eat away at our time. For the everyday person, these systems can manage schedules, handle shopping lists, or even book travel itineraries, saving hours that would otherwise be spent on logistics. Gartner predicts that by 2028, 15 per cent of day-to-day decisions will be made autonomously by agentic AI, up from near zero in 2024. This liberation from routine tasks means more time for people to immerse themselves in meaningful experiences – whether attending festivals, exploring pop-up activations, or connecting with brands at conferences. For experiential agencies, this is our moment to shine, because more free time means more chances to create moments that stick. 'When people are freed from planning, seeking and managing, they have more capacity to conquer, enjoy and engage.' Yet, having more free time doesn't automatically translate to deeper brand engagement. It's something our creative and strategy team has been deliberating and we're calling it the 'Experience Paradox': in a world where people are constantly immersed in experiences – from scrolling social media to attending live events – it takes something extraordinary to break through the noise. Brand experiences in the region must leverage bold, innovative storytelling to stand out, particularly in a young, dynamic market eager for meaningful connections. This paradox demands that experiential marketing delivers not just occasions, but culturally relevant, emotionally charged moments that linger long after the lights dim. At MCH Global, we've seen how culturally resonant work can cut through this clutter. Our collaboration with the Sharjah Light Festival transformed public spaces into mesmerising canvases, blending art and technology to captivate diverse audiences. Similarly, our work with Coca-Cola Europe crafted immersive activations that celebrated shared values, while our projects with Ford delivered high-octane, adrenaline-fueled experiences tailored to the region's love for automotive culture. These initiatives succeed because they understand cultural nuances, ensuring every moment feels authentic and impactful. The convergence of agentic AI and the Experience Paradox underscores a profound truth: time is the currency of experiential marketing. When people are freed from planning, seeking and managing, they have more capacity to conquer, enjoy and engage. This creates a virtuous cycle for brands. More time spent with brands translates into deeper connections, stronger advocacy and measurable return on investment. However, the challenge lies in crafting experiences that stand out in a crowded landscape. The AI agent market is projected to grow from $5.29bn in 2024 to $216.8bn by 2035, reflecting the transformative potential of AI in freeing up time for consumers, which brands can capitalise on. The future of brand experiences will play on seizing these newly created moments of consideration. As general AI use hands people back their time, brands have a golden ticket to engage them with bold, unforgettable experiences that cut through this Experience Paradox and open doors towards a new wave of possibilities. By Uli Stanke, Managing Director, MCH Global, Dubai
Sharjah 24
14-02-2025
- Health
- Sharjah 24
FOCP leads initiatives during 10th Gulf Cancer Awareness Week
The first couple of weekends in February were dedicated by FOCP to reinforcing its early detection efforts. On February 1, FOCP participated in Cancer Run 2025, organised by Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, where its mobile clinic provided clinical breast examinations for women aged 20 and above. On February 8, the Sharjah-based civil society organisation took part in a cancer-run event in Dubai Design District, once again deploying its mobile clinic to offer free breast screenings. FOCP also participated in the 12th Annual Marathon by Friends of Arthritis Patients in Al Mamzar, Sharjah, where its state-of-the-art mobile clinic continued to provide essential screenings to participants and attendees. FOCP partnered with the Sharjah Commerce & Tourism Development Authority to illuminate key landmarks across the emirate with the official 10th Gulf Cancer Awareness Week logo as part of the ongoing Sharjah Light Festival. Additionally, the House of Wisdom and Sharjah Museums Authority joined the cause, with the Sharjah Art Museum glowing in orange to raise awareness on World Cancer Day, while the House of Wisdom was lit in purple, the universal color for cancer awareness. Aisha Al Mulla, Director of FOCP, emphasised the significance of these efforts, stating: 'The 10th Gulf Cancer Awareness Week is crucial to reaffirm our commitment to raising awareness, fostering community involvement, and ensuring that patients receive the support they need. Year after year, FOCP has strengthened its contributions to this vital initiative, expanding our reach and impact through multi-faceted participation and collaborations. By leveraging data-driven insights and measurable outcomes, we continuously refine our approach to ensure our advocacy and support efforts are as effective as possible. The insights we gather from our strategic programmes guide our future initiatives, allowing us to develop targeted interventions that better serve cancer patients and promote awareness at a national and regional level.' Advocacy on a regional and global stage FOCP actively participated in the 10th Gulf Cancer Awareness Week's opening ceremony in Kuwait, joining regional cancer advocacy groups to strengthen cross-border efforts in fighting cancer. Additionally, FOCP took part in a panel session at the 3rd International UAE Rare Disease Society Congress, where discussions centred on the impact of rare cancers and the role of advocacy in addressing patient needs. To further highlight the importance of financial assistance in cancer care, FOCP conducted an in-depth assessment of beneficiaries who received financial aid since last year's Gulf Cancer Awareness Week. This study aims to evaluate the long-term impact of support on patient outcomes and quality of life. Community-driven initiatives to boost public participation FOCP's awareness events and activations throughout February focused on creating positive experiences for cancer patients and survivors and witnessed strong participation from the UAE community, who furthered FOCP's mission to make a lasting impact in the fight against cancer. Between February, FOCP is organising visits to Al Noor Island, Sharjah Safari, and Mleiha Wheat Farm, offering patients a chance to connect with nature and find respite from their treatment journeys. For pediatric cancer patients, FOCP collaborated with Make-A-Wish, RAK Insurance, Abu Dhabi Police, and Emaar Entertainment to host special hospital visits and fun-filled activities at Mediclinic Hospital, Tawam Hospital, and various entertainment venues, providing young patients with moments of joy and comfort. Additionally, FOCP partnered with Mleiha Nursery to host an educational session on childhood cancer awareness and healthy living, ensuring that parents and students are well-informed about early detection and prevention strategies.
Sharjah 24
13-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Light Festival illuminates Sharjah skies
The festival highlights the harmony between art, technology and the environment, and continues to present its creative performances until February 16, while the "Light Village" activities extend until February 23. Vibrant artistic paintings in 12 locations in Sharjah Organised by Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), "Sharjah Light Festival" continues to dazzle its visitors and has so far included 12 locations in the Emirate of Sharjah, transforming them into vibrant artistic paintings. As usual, the festival provides a distinctive platform for creators and artists, who display new light and interactive experiences that form exceptional works of art and paintings, each of which carries a story and a message with meaning and impact. Sharjah… A cultural and knowledge hub In Sharjah, Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park presents 'The Story of an Exceptional Vision,' a translation of the exceptional vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, which transformed Sharjah into an influential cultural and knowledge hub. It also tells vibrant stories of science, creativity and sustainability, and takes visitors on a visual journey that embodies the spirit of unity and harmony between man, the universe and nature. One of the most prominent shows this year is 'The Journey of the Light of Knowledge and Culture', which transforms the walls of Sharjah Mosque into living paintings that tell the story of harmony between man, art and nature, and pulsates with Sharjah's rich heritage. As for the 'Environmental Brilliance' show, it draws its inspiration from the sparkling coral reefs of Sharjah, transforming the Al Majaz Waterfront walkway into a wonderful light scene that combines the beauty of the ocean and the clarity of the sky. This artistic installation focuses on the importance of preserving the marine environment and sustainability, and highlights the emirate's commitment to sustainable development, while highlighting its ongoing efforts to preserve the beauty of nature. In the Orbits of Dialogue show, the sand dunes of Al Heerah Beach and light trails light the way to a stunning art installation inspired by the shape of a shell on the beach, in celebration of Sharjah's rich pearl heritage. The artwork 'Nexus Dream' at Al Hamriyah Beach seamlessly combines art, science and philosophy, inviting viewers to reflect on the relationship between the individual and the universe, and between physical reality and the imaginary world. The installation, which is being displayed at BEEAH's headquarters, 'Shadows of Innovation', is a distinctive blend of innovation and architecture, reflecting Sharjah's commitment to technology and progress, creating an unparalleled futuristic narrative experience. As for the Columns of Unity show, it is a stunning art installation that illuminates Aljada Park in Sharjah, and is a symbol of cohesion at the heart of Aljada Park, where art and technology come together to create an unforgettable experience that represents harmony and connection. As visitors enter this light installation, they find themselves surrounded by a world of light, movement and emotion, enhancing a deep sense of unity and harmony. Tens of thousands of visitors The festival, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors from inside and outside the UAE, will continue until February 16, presenting exceptional light shows that celebrate the aesthetics of the emirate's architecture and cultural heritage, while the ' Light Village' activities will continue until February 23, witnessing the participation of a large number of diverse small and medium-sized national projects that compete to provide experiences that meet the diverse interests of visitors.
Web Release
13-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Web Release
"Sharjah Light Festival 2025": An Artistic Creation that Breathes Exceptional Works in Sharjah
By Editor_wr Last updated Feb 12, 2025 The Sharjah Light Festival returns to dazzle the audience once again during its 14th edition organized by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority. So far, it has transformed 12 different locations in the emirate of Sharjah into vibrant artistic displays. As always, the festival provides a unique platform for creators and artists to showcase new light and interactive experiences that form exceptional artworks and displays, each carrying a meaningful story and message. In the city of Sharjah, the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park presents 'A Story of Extraordinary Vision,' allowing us to experience the exceptional vision of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, which has transformed Sharjah into a significant cultural and knowledge hub. It narrates vibrant stories about science, creativity, and sustainability, taking us on a visual journey that embodies the spirit of unity and harmony between humanity, the universe, and nature. Among the highlights of this year's festival is also 'A Journey Through Light and Culture,' which transforms the walls of Sharjah Mosque into living canvases that tell the story of harmony between humanity, art, and nature, pulsating with Sharjah's rich heritage. Another display, 'Eco Radiance,' draws inspiration from the vibrant coral reefs in Sharjah, turning the promenade at Al Majaz Waterfront into a stunning light scene that combines the beauty of the ocean with the clarity of the sky. This artistic installation focuses on the importance of preserving marine environments and sustainability, while highlighting the emirate's commitment to sustainable development and showcasing its ongoing efforts to maintain the beauty of nature. In the display 'Circles of Dialogue,' the illuminated sand dunes of Al Heera Beach and the light paths lead the way to a stunning artistic installation inspired by the shape of a shell on the beach, celebrating Sharjah's rich pearl heritage. The artwork 'Nexus Dream' at Al Hamriyah Beach seamlessly blends art, science, and philosophy, inviting viewers to contemplate the relationship between the individual and the universe, as well as between physical reality and dream worlds. The artistic installation 'Eclipse of Innovation' presents a distinctive blend of innovation and architecture at BEEAH headquarters, reflecting Sharjah's commitment to technology and progress, creating an unparalleled futuristic storytelling experience. Meanwhile, the display 'Pillars of Unity' is a stunning artistic installation that illuminates Aljada Park in Sharjah, serving as a symbol of togetherness at the heart of the park, where art and technology converge to create an unforgettable experience representing harmony and connection. As visitors enter this luminous configuration, they find themselves surrounded by a world of light, motion, and emotion, enhancing their profound sense of unity and harmony. The festival, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors from within the country and abroad, will continue until February 16, showcasing exceptional light displays that celebrate the aesthetics of the emirate's architecture and cultural heritage. Meanwhile, the activities of the 'Light Village' will run until February 23, featuring a large number of diverse small and medium-sized national projects competing to offer experiences that cater to the varied interests of visitors. Comments are closed.
Sharjah 24
10-02-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SRTI shines at Sharjah Light Festival, advancing smart lighting
CEO's vision and SRTI Park's role Commenting on its participation, Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of SRTI Park, said: "We are delighted to be part of the Sharjah Light Festival, as this event reflects our vision of supporting initiatives that leverage technology to create unique experiences for the public. The overwhelming visitor turnout each evening highlights SRTI Park's significance as a hub that blends innovation with entertainment. We remain committed to attracting companies specializing in advanced lighting technologies, reinforcing Sharjah's position as a global center for innovation and creativity." Smart lighting solutions at SRTI Park SRTI Park is home to some startups and companies specialised in smart lighting technologies, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance energy efficiency and redefine visual experiences. Sustainable lighting solutions are at the forefront of industry trends, contributing to a reduction of up to 80% in energy consumption compared to traditional systems—aligning with the UAE's sustainability goals. Hub for smart lighting innovation While the global LED lighting market is expected to reach $105.66 billion by 2025, growing at a 13.4% CAGR, driven by demand for energy-efficient solutions, Sharjah is enhancing its role in this sector, with one of the largest LED lighting manufacturing facilities in the MENA region, producing 100,000 wall-integrated units and 150,000 neon fixtures annually. SRTI Park is focusing on R&D in smart lighting, AI-driven illumination, and IoT-integrated solutions, aiming to boost investment in next-gen lighting innovations. With global R&D spending in lighting tech exceeding $6 billion annually, Sharjah has a growing opportunity to lead in this industry. Experience the SRTI Park illuminations The SRTI Park illuminations run until February 16, allowing guests to immerse themselves in this extraordinary event and discover the vibrant atmosphere at SRTIP, a key destination within this world-class celebration. The Sharjah Light Festival is now an integral part of the emirate's landscape, growing from a small spark to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors who come to be dazzled by the specially composed music, artistic ingenuity, and technical skills of the masters who curate the stunning illuminations onto the splendid landmarks of Sharjah.
