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Amid strong international participation, the Sharjah Institute for Heritage took part in the activities of the Istanbul International Heritage Exhibition and Conference 2026, which specializes in restoration, archaeology, museums, and library technologies. The event kicked off at the Yenikapı Eurasia Exhibition and Convention Center in Istanbul, Turkey, with broad participation from cultural institutions, experts, and specialists in heritage preservation from around the world.

Official Opening and International حضور
The event was officially inaugurated by Istanbul Governor Davut Gül, in the presence of officials and international experts in cultural heritage, along with representatives from the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism and participating academic and cultural institutions.

Heritage as a Bridge for Human Connection
In his keynote speech at the conference’s opening session, H.E. Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, emphasized that cultural heritage represents a civilizational bridge that fosters dialogue among peoples. He highlighted Sharjah’s pioneering experience in safeguarding both tangible and intangible heritage and revitalizing historic cities.

Sharjah’s Vision for Heritage Protection
Dr. Al Musallam explained that Sharjah’s interest in heritage dates back to the 1980s, guided by the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. This comprehensive vision recognized early on that heritage is not limited to buildings and historical sites, but also includes living memory, cultural practices, and inherited traditions—reflecting an integrated cultural identity.

Scientific Session and Showcasing the Experience
Dr. Al Musallam also participated in the conference’s scientific program, presenting a session on the first day in which he reviewed Sharjah’s experience in heritage protection. He discussed key restoration projects, the revival of historical sites, and efforts in documentation and academic publishing.

He highlighted projects to revive the Old City of Sharjah, including its houses, forts, and markets, as well as the revitalization of heritage villages in Khorfakkan, Al Lulu’iyah, and Al Zubarah. He also addressed the development of Al Dhaid Oasis and the reactivation of traditional irrigation systems such as aflaj.

He stressed that heritage protection is closely linked to documentation and academic dissemination, noting Sharjah’s role in publishing specialized books and journals that enhance knowledge and transform experiences into scientific references.

International Recognition of Sharjah’s Experience
He pointed out that UNESCO’s selection of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage as a Category II International Center for capacity building in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage reflects the global standing Sharjah has achieved.

Restoration Projects in the Emirate of Sharjah
As part of its participation in the conference, the Sharjah Institute for Heritage will organize a session tomorrow, Friday, titled “Restoration Projects in the Emirate of Sharjah,” presented by Engineer Sultan Al Hammadi. The session will highlight the Institute’s role in restoring heritage landmarks such as forts, castles, walls, historic houses, markets, and old neighborhoods, through a balanced focus on both tangible and intangible heritage, testing environmentally suitable materials, adopting best international practices, and engaging students and the local community in the restoration process.

Enhancing Sharjah’s Cultural Presence
The Institute’s participation comes within the framework of strengthening Sharjah’s global cultural presence and exchanging expertise with international institutions concerned with safeguarding human heritage.

Exhibition Tour
The opening program also included an official tour during which attendees explored the participating pavilions, including the Sharjah Institute for Heritage’s pavilion, which showcased its أبرز initiatives and programs in research, training, and documentation.