Activities and Stories in the Shade of the Palm Tree at the Sharjah Institute for Heritage
Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, inaugurated the event “In the Shade of the Palm Tree: Heritage and Story,” organized as part of the World Cultural Heritage Weeks program in Sharjah, taking place from June 23 to 26.
Held at the Center for International Organizations for Cultural Heritage, the event highlights the palm tree as a rich source of inspiration, knowledge, and Arab folk heritage through interactive stations and a variety of traditional workshops.
The event features a panel discussion titled “The Palm Tree: A Shared Arab Heritage,” scheduled for Tuesday, with the participation of a select group of researchers and specialists from several Arab countries. The session is moderated by Aisha Obaid Ghabesh, Director of Events and Activities at the Institute. On Wednesday, a morning poetry gathering titled “The Tale of the Palms” will be held, featuring poets and creatives from various countries, and moderated by media personality Mohammed Hamdan. The aim is to highlight the symbolic and cultural significance of the palm tree in the Arab collective memory.
The event is witnessing notable attendance from heritage and folk culture enthusiasts and includes tours of the exhibitions by participating countries. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Egypt are showcasing elements of their authentic cultural and artisanal heritage.
The event includes live performances of several traditional handicrafts that reflect authentic heritage skills such as: rope braiding, jerban sewing, khoos (palm frond) weaving, madbasa (date pressing), mistaah (a traditional tool), and saffafa (a weaving technique), alongside displays of palm frond products and dates. Daily morning workshops are also held, covering the making of traditional bracelets, palm frond keychains, basket decorations, painting on sarood (traditional serving mats), fan making, as well as storytelling sessions for children.
A Symbol of Identity
Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Musallam emphasized that “the palm tree is more than just a blessed tree—it embodies the spirit of giving and deep connection to the land, and forms an essential part of the national identity and rich heritage of Emirati society.”
He explained that “the palm tree holds a special place in Arab consciousness, representing values of patience, continuity, and connection across generations.”
He noted that the Institute places great importance on presenting heritage in modern and engaging ways through visual media and interactive workshops that aim to bring traditional culture closer to the public. He sees these initiatives as contributing to reinforcing the palm tree’s presence as a living and influential symbol in the cultural and social landscape, especially among youth and contemporary communities.
A Bridge of Connection
Aisha Obaid Ghabesh pointed out that the palm tree has united Arabs through the ages, serving as a central theme in the knowledge, stories, and diverse traditions passed down from ancestors. She added that the palm tree remains an enduring symbol that reflects the deep cultural and social ties uniting peoples. It contributes to fostering understanding and mutual respect among various communities, thus forming a powerful bridge for communication and cultural dialogue, while preserving the values and customs that form the strong fabric of shared heritage.