Sultan Bin Ahmed Witnesses Closing Ceremony Of Sir Bu Nair Festival Celebrating Environmental Heritage

H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, attended the closing ceremony of the 2025 Silver Jubilee edition of the Sir Bu Nair Festival. Organised by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority, this event took place on Sir Bu Nair Island in Sharjah. The festival's final day included a 60-foot dhow sailing race, with over 60 dhows and 1,200 sailors competing for AED 2.8 million in prizes.

The Deputy Ruler inaugurated a new vessel for the Environment and Protected Areas Authority at the island’s creek during the closing ceremony. He also opened a new activity area near the beach. Traditional maritime performances added to the vibrant national atmosphere, reflecting the festival's spirit. H.H. toured this area, witnessing artistic displays and traditional songs that highlighted marine heritage.

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Several exhibitions showcased Sharjah’s efforts in environmental conservation and sustainable development. The Green List exhibition emphasised Sir Bu Nair’s designation as a global nature reserve, highlighting its international importance and Sharjah’s leading role in protected area management. The activity area features seven restaurants, a branch of the Sharjah Cooperative Society, indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the sea, a modern meeting hall, a cultural theatre, and a "Padel" court.

H.H. visited an exhibition by the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology. This exhibition featured rare astrophotography from Sir Bu Nair Island, showcasing its pristine skies ideal for astronomical observation. The island is recognised as a Dark Sky Reserve by the International Dark-Sky Association, reflecting Sharjah’s commitment to preserving natural environments that support scientific research.

The Deputy Ruler also explored an exhibition on coral reef cultivation, demonstrating efforts to protect marine ecosystems and enhance habitats for aquatic species. A geology exhibition presented unique rock formations on the island, contributing to environmental and scientific knowledge. Additionally, he visited a specialised Pearl Exhibition by researcher Mustafa Al Fardan, featuring live demonstrations of traditional diving and pearl cultivation.

Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi concluded his tour at the Sir Bu Nair Book exhibition. This exhibition documented the island’s environmental and cultural history while showcasing pioneering efforts that have established it as an ecological icon in the UAE and regionally.

Acknowledgements and Awards

The Deputy Ruler received a commemorative gift from the Environment and Protected Areas Authority — a replica of an ancient jar discovered on Sir Bu Nair Island dating back to the 1st millennium BC. This gift was in recognition of his ongoing support for environmental initiatives and heritage preservation.

He honoured researcher Mustafa Al Fardan for his contributions to documenting diving history and pearl cultivation in the UAE. Awards were presented to winners of the Sir Bu Nair Dhow Sailing Race: Al Dhafra dhow captained by Mohammed Abdullah Al Marzouqi took first place; Al Shaqi dhow captained by Khalaf Buti Musabeh placed second; Zalzal dhow captained by Marwan Abdullah Mohammed Al Marzouqi took third place.

International Recognition

Sir Bu Nair Island is one of Sharjah’s premier environmental sites with four international recognitions affirming its global status: inclusion on UNESCO’s tentative World Heritage list; designation as a Wetland of International Importance under Ramsar Convention; inclusion in IOSEA network for marine turtle conservation; listing in IUCN Green List as one of best-managed reserves worldwide.

This exceptional edition celebrated 25 years of environmental achievements solidifying its status as major ecological event in UAE regionally featuring early-morning traditional dhow races guided tours nature reserve immersive cultural educational activities showcasing Sharjah’s commitment heritage environment raising awareness natural treasures.

With inputs from WAM