Sharjah Institute For Heritage Advances Research And Launches Publications At SIBF 2025

The Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH) showcased its commitment to heritage research at the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025. By organising high-level dialogue sessions, SIH aimed to foster scholarly discussions and exchange expertise among academics and professionals. These efforts further cemented Sharjah's reputation as a global hub for knowledge and culture.

A key session titled "Supporting Heritage Research Projects: A Pillar for Documenting Emirati Heritage" highlighted the importance of research in preserving national heritage. The session explored methods for documenting cultural traditions and developing scientific tools in this field. Dr Rashid Al Mazrouei, an expert in Emirati folklore, and Dr Hamad bin Saray, an advisor at SIH, were featured speakers.

Dr Hamad bin Saray emphasised the vital role of heritage institutions in the UAE, particularly SIH, in supporting projects that document Emirati heritage. He stated that the Institute "has presented an inspiring model in sponsoring and disseminating research through the scientific, editorial, and production support it provides to researchers." This support includes projects like the Dictionary of Economic Life in the UAE.

The fair also saw the launch of two new publications from SIH. Researcher Omar Abdullah Elan signed his book "Somali Heritage in the Writings of European Travelers," which explores 19th-century Somali life. He noted that SIH's backing opens new perspectives on Arab and African heritage, highlighting global connections.

Dr Saleh Mohammed Zaki Al-Lahibi, with Dr Amer Al-Qasim, introduced "The Relationship Between Intellectual Property and Museums: Protecting Innovation and Heritage." This work examines strategies for preserving archaeological artifacts as part of national identity. Dr Al-Lahibi praised SIH’s pioneering role in safeguarding both tangible and intangible heritage.

Dr Rashid Al Mazrouei discussed various high-quality heritage projects within the UAE. He mentioned his own works on documentation and heritage studies, such as the Proverbs Project. He also highlighted the Narrator’s Forum organised by SIH as a significant initiative for preserving Emirati oral history.

SIH continues to strengthen its position as a centre for researchers and creatives in cultural studies through these publications. It focuses on promoting scientific research, documenting Emirati and Arab heritage, and supporting projects that preserve collective memory for future generations.

The Sharjah International Book Fair 2025 provided a platform for SIH to demonstrate its dedication to heritage preservation. By supporting research projects and launching new publications, SIH aligns with its vision of reinforcing cultural identity and safeguarding heritage knowledge for future generations.

With inputs from WAM