Tanweer Festival: Bodour Al Qasimi Hosts Global Talents In Mleiha Desert Celebration Of Art And Music

The Tanweer Festival's first day was a vibrant celebration of music, poetry, and art in the Mleiha desert. Over 2,000 attendees gathered under the theme "Timeless Echoes of Love and Light," inspired by Jalal al-Din Al Rumi. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi envisioned this unique event for the region, bringing together a global lineup to celebrate heritage and creativity.

Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi delivered an inspiring speech on the Main Stage alongside Senegalese artist Senny Camara. She stated, "Tanweer is more than a festival; it is a call to awaken the light within us. Through love, acceptance, and unity, we plant the seeds of a new reality — a rebirth of consciousness where division gives way to connection and fear dissolves into compassion. Here, in the sacred land of Mleiha, we gather not by coincidence but by purpose, to carry this light forward and inspire transformation in our communities and beyond."

Sami Yusuf's performance was a highlight of the evening. Known for his work in World Music Traditions, he captivated the audience with "In Al-Andalus - En al-Ándalus." This piece was inspired by Lisan al-Din Ibn al-Khatib’s Andalusian muwashshah "Jadaka Al-Ghaithu Idha Al-Ghaithu Hamma." His ability to blend musical traditions showcased unity and cultural heritage.

Yusuf also performed beloved pieces like "Jadaka al-Ghaith," "Ilahana," "A Dancing Heart," "To Guide You Home," "Lama Bada Yatathanna," and "Madad." The audience enjoyed his recent composition "Ven Mi Alma," further demonstrating his talent in evoking deep emotions through music.

The festival began with performances by the Emirati Heritage Band - Al Nadba. Their reverent calling set a tone that honoured tradition. Ziyad Sahhab, a Lebanese oud player, performed alongside Aga Khan laureate Yahya Hussein. French calligrapher Julien Breton added visual artistry with ALIF Motion Light Calligraphy, enhancing Sahhab's tribute to Rumi’s teachings.

Anas Alhalabi concluded the night on the Tree of Life stage with his ‘Anas Handpan Orchestra.’ His enchanting sound journey solidified his reputation as a regional pioneer with this instrument.

Marketplace and Culinary Delights

The Tanweer Marketplace was bustling with traditional crafts and handmade goods. Artisans displayed weaving, ceramics, and jewellery reflecting Emirati culture. Nearby, the Nourish Zone offered regional delicacies like tender kebabs and saffron-infused rice dishes. The air was filled with enticing aromas from grills and clay pots.

Art Installations and Sustainability

Art installations complemented the desert landscape, drawing inspiration from regional history and Rumi’s teachings. Sustainability was integral to the festival's design. Solar-powered lights illuminated pathways while eco-friendly materials underscored human-nature harmony.

This year's festival received support from partners such as Emaar, Al Marwan Group, Arada, Tiger Properties, Invest Bank, Asas Real Estate, du, Beeah, Sharjah Municipality, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, Masdar, Mohamed Hilal Group, Emirates Post, Sharjah Airport, Hardo Group, Thumbay, SEWA, Orient Travel among others.

With inputs from WAM