SIH Launches Second Heritage Conference To Explore Folk Heritage Perceptions By Foreign Researchers

The Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH) is set to host its second Heritage Conference on July 2, 2025. This event, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, will take place at the Arabian Heritage Centre in Sharjah’s University City. The conference will focus on "Folk Heritage Through the Eyes of Others," featuring contributions from academics and experts worldwide.

The conference aims to explore how Emirati and Arab folk heritage is viewed by international researchers. Through academic papers and discussions, participants will delve into intellectual and cultural exchanges between local traditions and global perspectives. This initiative aligns with SIH's mission to promote civilisational dialogue and share expertise in heritage preservation across generations.

Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of SIH, highlighted the significance of this event as an intellectual milestone. He stated: "We are keen to make this conference an open space for dialogue with researchers from around the world, to understand how our heritage is perceived beyond our borders, and how we can present it in ways that preserve its authenticity while aligning with current cultural transformations."

The two-day programme includes six specialised sessions covering various topics. These sessions will address foreign perceptions of folk heritage, cultural discourse in international studies, and the role of global institutions in preserving heritage. Additionally, research projects and field studies from different regions will be presented.

An exhibition titled "Our Heritage Through Their Eyes" will open on the first day. It showcases artworks, documents, and field research by non-Arab researchers who have documented elements of folk heritage in the region. This exhibition aims to provide insights into how foreign scholars perceive and document local traditions.

Dr Saif Mohammed bin Aboud Al Bedwawi has been chosen as this year's honouree for his significant contributions to historiography and cultural heritage. His work in documenting the UAE’s national memory and enhancing cultural identity through academic studies has been widely recognised.

Honouring Scholarly Contributions

The conference not only seeks to highlight diverse perspectives but also honours individuals who have made notable contributions to cultural heritage studies. Dr Al Bedwawi's recognition underscores his role in strengthening cultural identity through his scholarly work.

This event represents a unique opportunity for participants to engage in meaningful dialogue about heritage preservation. By bringing together experts from various fields, the conference aims to foster a deeper understanding of how local traditions are perceived globally.

With inputs from WAM