21st Sharjah Heritage Days Unites Cultures With Vibrant Celebrations

H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, graced the opening ceremony of the 21st session of Sharjah Heritage Days (SHD) on Thursday. This event, held under the banner "Connect", took place in the Heritage Square within the historic Heart of Sharjah. It saw participation from 13 Arab and foreign countries along with 25 government agencies. The Sharjah Institute for Heritage organises this vibrant cultural festivity aimed at celebrating and preserving heritage.

The ceremony showcased an impressive lineup of heritage activities, workshops, and performances. Visitors enjoyed a rich tapestry of cultural offerings, including artistic and entertainment workshops, awareness sessions, popular games, cup-engraving workshops, musical arts, and heritage performances. The highlight was the traditional Emirati and artistic performances that marked the beginning of the Heritage Days ceremony, alongside a variety show by the National Folklore Troupe from the Republic of South Korea, this year's guest of honour.

During his tour of Heritage Square, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi engaged with various pavilions that highlighted the profound impact of popular heritage on societies. He expressed admiration for the cultural diversity and artistic richness of the Republic of South Korea, particularly the exhibition from Jeju province. His appreciation extended to the organisers' dedication to safeguarding and promoting heritage while preserving authentic local values and traditions.

The 2023 edition of Sharjah Heritage Days runs from February 22 to March 3. It spans six cities within the Emirate of Sharjah: Sharjah, Al Hamriyah, Dibba Al Hisn, Khorfakkan, Kalba, and Al Dhaid. This year's event features participants from Morocco, Egypt, Palestine, Yemen, Iraq, Syria, Kuwait, the United States of America, Montenegro, Turkiye, and Slovakia.

Among the SHD activities are three main exhibitions. Two are dedicated to this year's guest of honour, Jeju Province, showcasing museum collections of significant heritage value and highlighting the simple life of the Haenyeo. The third exhibition focuses on Emirati intangible cultural heritage elements listed in UNESCO, featuring fifteen elements.

The opening ceremony was attended by a distinguished audience including Sheikhs, senior officials, heads and directors of government departments, ambassadors, representatives of diplomatic missions in the country, representatives from participating countries, and numerous visitors to the Sharjah Heritage Days activities.

With inputs from WAM