Aisha Al-Hissan Al-Shamsi: Sharjah Heritage Days 23 “The Glow of Authenticity” Reflect the Depth of Local, Arab, and International Heritage
A Scientific and Interactive Launch of the Center’s Activities within the New Edition
Sharjah, 4 February 2026
Her Excellency Aisha Rashid Al-Hissan Al-Shamsi, Director of the Arab Heritage Center at the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, expressed her great pleasure at the launch of the activities and programs of the 23rd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days, held under the theme “The Glow of Authenticity”. The event is organized under the gracious patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. She affirmed that the new edition is rich with high-quality cultural and scientific programs that reflect the depth of local, Arab, and international heritage.
Cultural Diversity and Celebrating Portugal
Al-Hissan Al-Shamsi noted that the current edition of Sharjah Heritage Days is distinguished by its diversity, richness, and the dynamic pace of its programs, both in intellectual and scientific events as well as interactive activities. She highlighted the celebration of the Republic of Portugal as Guest of Honor, recognizing its rich cultural and heritage legacy and reflecting the depth of cultural relations between Portugal and the Emirate of Sharjah.
Kohl: A Shared Arab Heritage File
She explained that the Arab Heritage Center’s program begins by spotlighting the Kohl file as a shared Arab heritage element, registered with the participation of several countries. The program will address the mechanisms of its inscription on UNESCO lists through scientific lectures and interactive workshops, in addition to dedicating a live corner that demonstrates traditional kohl-making practices by the bearer communities of this heritage.
Recently Inscribed Files on UNESCO Lists
Al-Hissan Al-Shamsi further stated that the program addresses several files recently inscribed on UNESCO lists, including Koshari, which will be presented in an interactive format combining culinary heritage with accompanying music and folk songs. The program will also discuss other shared Arab files such as the Bisht, covering preparation methods, craftsmanship, and weaving techniques.
Al Sadu: An Emirati Achievement and an International Milestone
She pointed out that the program will highlight the Emirati Al Sadu file, which has recently moved from the Urgent Safeguarding List to the Representative List, an achievement reflecting national efforts in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.
She also noted that dedicated sessions will introduce the Sharjah International Award for Cultural Heritage, showcasing the experiences of its winners and best research practices in the field of heritage safeguarding.
Arab Heritage Files and Interactive Activities for the Public
Al-Hissan Al-Shamsi added that the Arab Heritage Center pavilion will discuss heritage files from Iraq and Sudan, including the Iraqi game Mheibes, presented through live interactive performances that allow the public to learn the rules and try the game themselves, as well as the Sudanese (Jertig) tradition, one of the deeply rooted popular customs in Sudanese society.
An Open Knowledge Platform
She concluded by affirming that the Arab Heritage Center’s participation in Sharjah Heritage Days represents an open knowledge and training platform that contributes to building the capacities of professionals working in the field of intangible cultural heritage across Arab countries, while enhancing community awareness of heritage as a fundamental component of identity and a bridge for cultural communication among peoples.