How heritage, craft and community make Sharjah the cultural heart of the UAE

20.11.2024 - 07:47 / euronews.com / Portia Jones

When it comes to intriguing culture and heritage, Sharjah stands apart from the glittering towers of its neighbours. It is the UAE’s third-largest Emirate and its cultural heart. 

“The beauty of the United Arab Emirates is we are seven completely different emirates," says Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah’s Commerce and Tourism Development Authority. "But we share the same values in terms of culture, history, safety and security.”

Known for its family-friendly appeal and dedication to tradition, Sharjah showcases authentic Arabian heritage across a landscape stretching from the Arabian Gulf to the Hajar Mountains.

Officially recognised as a UNESCO Creative City for Crafts and Folk Art in 2019, you can dive into UAE’s rich cultural heritage through traditional crafts, festivals, and historical sites.

“We have a lot of strategic objectives to promote Sharjah as a cultural destination suited to all age groups,” explains Jasim Al Midfa.

Sharjah’s dedication to preserving and celebrating culture is evident in its craft programs, heritage festivals, and artistic projects, which offer immersive opportunities to experience the UAE’s deep-rooted traditions firsthand. 

Sharjah’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art reflects its deep commitment to safeguarding heritage.

It ensures the cultural landscape is preserved and expanded through purposeful initiatives.

Jasim Al Midfa emphasises this enduring dedication, “Sharjah has always preserved the identity of the tangible and intangible assets that we have...as well as culture and education.”

This focus underpins Sharjah’s cultural vision, reinforcing that heritage here is both a legacy and a responsibility.

The annual Sharjah Heritage Days festival brings together local craftsmen and women to demonstrate traditional weaving, pottery, and calligraphy skills, bridging the gap between past and present.

The UNESCO designation also strengthens Sharjah’s commitment to cultural knowledge transfer. Through workshops led by the Sharjah Art Foundation, artists, designers, and visitors of all ages gain hands-on experience with Emirati arts and crafts taught directly by the artisans.

Local legislation further reinforces Sharjah’s cultural development. In 2017, Emiri Decree No. 5 established policies and strategic action plans for protecting crafts and folk art, aligning with international preservation standards.

This framework ensures that Sharjah’s heritage sector is nurtured and its craftspeople have a strong presence in the broader tourism landscape.

Sharjah’s cultural heritage extends beyond contemporary art and craft to its archaeological sites and historical landmarks.

One of the Emirate’s most significant heritage projects is the proposed UNESCO World