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Kalba, February 8, 2026
The echoes of a bygone era returned to Kalba on Saturday as the city opened the 23rd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days, transforming the coastal town into a living canvas of Emirati history, culture and collective memory.
The opening ceremony was attended by Sheikh Haitham bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Deputy Head of the Ruler’s Office in Kalba, alongside Abubakr Al Kindi, Director of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, and Saqr Mohammed, Chairman of the External Openings Committee. Senior officials and large crowds of visitors also gathered to witness the launch, which unfolded in a festive atmosphere inspired by the UAE’s mountain, coastal, agricultural and desert environments.
From the moment visitors entered the heritage village, scenes of traditional life came vividly into view. Displays featuring camels, date palms and fishing tools evoked the rhythms of earlier generations, while traditional majlis settings—filled with the aroma of Arabic coffee and animated social and cultural conversations—offered a glimpse into the values that once shaped daily life.
Food stalls proved to be a major draw, serving popular Emirati dishes such as regag bread, harees and luqaimat. Together, they offered visitors a sensory journey that blended taste, memory and community spirit, reinforcing the event’s focus on reviving the spirit of place.
Folk performances lit up the festival grounds, with traditional groups presenting ayala, nahma, taghrooda and nouban shows. The rhythmic music and coordinated dances brought the past to life in a vibrant, living form, reflecting the diversity and richness of the UAE’s cultural heritage and its enduring connection to the present.
Traditional crafts and professions also took centre stage, as artisans demonstrated age-old skills ranging from palm frond weaving to spinning and textile work. These live displays narrated stories of resilience and creativity, while the participation of Arab and international countries added a global dimension to the celebrations, broadening the cultural experience for visitors of all ages.
Speaking to visitors, Saqr Mohammed said Kalba was chosen for its deep-rooted heritage significance, particularly the Al Hisn area, which is home to museums, folk groups and productive families. He noted that the event reflects strong cooperation between cultural bodies, government entities and the local community.
The Kalba leg of Sharjah Heritage Days will run for three days, with organisers inviting the public to explore the heritage village and enjoy its wide range of performances and activities.
After Kalba, the celebrations will move on to Al Dhaid, Dibba Al Hisn, Khor Fakkan, and conclude in Wadi Al Helo, as part of a wider plan to extend the reach of heritage activities across the emirate and share the authenticity of Emirati culture with the widest possible audience.