Jordanian Mansaf” Concludes the Kingdom’s Participation in Sharjah Heritage Days
Sharjah – February 15, 2026Sharjah | February 2026
The 23rd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days, held under the theme “The Glow of Authenticity,” witnessed vibrant participation from 27 countries — among them the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, whose presence culminated in a flavourful and symbolic finale.
Jordan’s delegation, comprising 11 male and female artisans, presented a rich tapestry of traditional crafts and performing arts that reflected the depth and diversity of the kingdom’s cultural heritage. Visitors explored intricate straw and palm frond weaving, plant-fibre crafts, pottery and ceramics, traditional embroidery and costumes, hand spinning and weaving, stone mosaics, Islamic calligraphy and ornamentation, henna art, heritage accessories, wood carving, and coloured sand art.
The pavilion also resonated with the sounds of the rababa, folk chants, and traditional games such as mancala, while Arabic coffee — a timeless emblem of generosity — welcomed guests in true Jordanian style.
Interactive Heritage
Hadeel Al-Subaihi, head of the Jordanian delegation, said the most distinctive aspect of this year’s participation was the live, interactive workshops that drew strong engagement from visitors of all ages.
“Our goal in participating in this global heritage gathering is to showcase Jordan’s cultural identity, safeguard our intangible cultural heritage, and strengthen our presence across Arab and international cultural platforms,” she said.
Mansaf: A Dish of Identity and Unity
The highlight — and grand finale — of Jordan’s participation was the preparation of mansaf, the country’s national dish, recently inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Cooked outdoors over charcoal in a communal setting, the dish drew crowds eager to witness the traditional preparation and savour its distinctive taste. Made with karaki jameed (sun-dried fermented yogurt), locally sourced lamb and clarified butter, mansaf carries profound social symbolism in Jordanian society.
More than a meal, mansaf represents the highest expression of hospitality and communal solidarity. It plays a central role in tribal reconciliation traditions, family gatherings and major celebrations, reinforcing social bonds and embodying values of honour, generosity and unity.
Through its multifaceted participation, Jordan reaffirmed its deeply rooted cultural presence, reflecting the broader message of Sharjah Heritage Days — preserving collective memory while building bridges between peoples through living heritage.
As the festival concluded after 11 days of performances, workshops and cross-cultural exchange, the aroma of mansaf lingered as a fitting reminder that heritage is not only displayed — it is shared, tasted and experienced together.