Sharjah Heritage Days 2026 showcases Emirati, global traditions

SHARJAH, UAE – Sharjah came alive on Wednesday as the 23rd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days was launched by Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. Organised by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage under the theme “Glow of Authenticity,” the festival runs until February 15 across seven locations in the emirate, Sharjah City, Khorfakkan, Kalba, Dibba Al Hisn, Al Dhaid, Wadi Al Helo, and Al Hamriyah, reflecting its broad community engagement.

Sheikh Sultan’s arrival was met with a colourful display of traditional heritage chants and folk performances, including Al Ayala, Al Harbiya, Al Razha, and Al Nadba, expressing loyalty and pride while highlighting the enduring connection between Emirati culture and leadership. The opening programme also featured a Bedouin camel caravan, falconry demonstrations, and exhibitions celebrating the richness of UAE folk heritage.

This year, 27 countries are participating, with over 265 artisans showcasing 40 traditional crafts, alongside 41 Arab and international folk groups performing 1,173 artistic presentations across 20 forms of chants. Visitors can also engage in 307 workshops, 57 educational programmes, 44 live shows, five training courses, 19 awareness initiatives, and 70 heritage competitions, with 21 new activities introduced for the first time.

International engagement and cultural exchange

This year’s edition highlights global heritage, with Portugal as Guest of Honour. Sheikh Sultan visited the Portuguese pavilion, titled “Dialogues between Memory and the Future,” exploring artworks and crafts from the 16th century to the present. He attended interactive performances of Portuguese folk music and dance, which illustrated the diversity of Portugal’s cultural identity and explored the “Flavours of Portuguese Heritage” corner, learning about traditional dishes and their cultural significance.

The festival reflects Sharjah’s commitment to cultural openness and civilisational dialogue, connecting global traditions with the UAE’s heritage. Sheikh Sultan also signed the first commemorative postage stamp for Sharjah Heritage Days 2026, highlighting the festival’s significance and Sharjah’s role in preserving and passing on Emirati folk heritage to future generations.

The opening ceremony was attended by senior dignitaries including Chairman of the Ruler’s Office Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi and Secretary of State for Culture of Portugal Alberto Fernando Santos, alongside diplomats, media representatives and heritage experts.

A platform for education, tradition and family engagement

Sharjah Heritage Days continues to attract locals, residents and expatriates, offering families hands-on experiences in traditional Emirati crafts, storytelling and cultural talks. Children can participate in workshops or visit nearby Sharjah museums and the Sharjah Discovery Centre, fostering intergenerational engagement with the emirate’s rich heritage.

According to Director of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage Abubakr Al Kindi, this year’s edition includes 499 activities, combining workshops, educational programmes, live performances and interactive experiences.

Experts note that Sharjah Heritage Days has evolved into an internationally-recognised event, promoting heritage preservation, tourism and cross-cultural dialogue. From Emirati folk chants and crafts to international arts and culinary experiences, the festival embodies a living celebration of culture, identity and tradition, creating a platform where heritage truly thrives.