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Under the theme “The Glow of Authenticity”
Sultan Al Qasimi Witnesses the Launch of the 23rd Sharjah Heritage Days

Sharjah, 4 February 2026

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, witnessed on Wednesday afternoon the launch of the 23rd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days, organised by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage under the theme “The Glow of Authenticity.” The event runs until 15 February in the Heritage Area in the Heart of Sharjah.

His Highness was welcomed upon arrival by performances from various folk groups that celebrated his presence with traditional chants and heritage songs, expressing pride and loyalty, and embodying the authenticity of popular heritage and the deep bond with the leadership.

His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah watched traditional musical performances presented by different folk groups, including Al Ayala, Al Harbiya, Al Razfa, and Al Nadbah, welcoming him at the opening of Sharjah Heritage Days. The programme also featured heritage displays, a Bedouin camel caravan, and a falcon showcase, in a scene that reflected the richness of Emirati folk heritage and its deep connection to national identity.

His Highness was briefed on the events and activities of Sharjah Heritage Days, which feature the participation of 27 countries and more than 265 artisans presenting 40 traditional crafts, 20 types of folk chants, and 41 Arab and international folk groups delivering a total of 1,173 artistic performances. The programme further includes more than 307 workshops, 57 educational programmes, 44 live demonstrations, five training courses, 19 awareness programmes, and 70 heritage competitions, in addition to 21 new activities being presented for the first time.

His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah visited the pavilion of the Portuguese Republic, Guest of Honour of the 23rd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days, held under the title “Dialogues Between Memory and the Future.” His Highness viewed the pavilion’s highlights, including decorative works and artworks that explore Portuguese arts from the 16th century to the present day, and listened to explanations about the handmade and artisanal works presented by the artists.

His Highness then toured the Portuguese folk arts platform, where he watched an interactive artistic performance reflecting authentic Portuguese heritage through musical and performance displays that embodied the features of Portuguese cultural identity and highlighted the diversity and richness of its folk arts. This took place within a framework that reflects the spirit of cultural openness and civilisational dialogue celebrated by Sharjah Heritage Days. His Highness also visited the “Flavours from Portuguese Heritage” corner, where he learned about the most prominent traditional dishes, their preparation methods, and the cultural meanings they carry as expressions of Portugal’s culinary heritage.

His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah graciously signed the first commemorative postage stamp issued by Emirates Post to coincide with the launch of Sharjah Heritage Days, documenting this heritage occasion and highlighting the cultural and human values it represents, which reflect the depth of the UAE’s folk heritage and Sharjah’s role in preserving it and passing it on to future generations.

This year, Sharjah Heritage Days will be held across seven cities and areas in the Emirate of Sharjah: Sharjah City, Khorfakkan, Kalba, Dibba Al Hisn, Al Dhaid, Wadi Al Helo, and Al Hamriyah, in a geographical spread that reflects the comprehensiveness of the event and its wide community presence.

The opening ceremony was attended alongside His Highness by Sheikh Dr Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ruler’s Office; His Excellency Alberto Fernando Santos, Minister of State for Cultural Affairs of the Portuguese Republic; as well as a number of senior officials, diplomats, media representatives, and heritage enthusiasts.