On the outskirts of its beautiful banks, among the hospitality of indigenous people and bountiful and peaceful lands, Sheikh Saeed bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Deputy Chief of Sharjah Ruler’s Office in Khorfakkan, commenced the 20th edition of the Sharjah Heritage Day Festival in Dibba Al-Hisn. Celebrating the brilliant launch of activities, His Highness began the event with the ribbon cutting ceremony in the presence of His Excellency Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH) and Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee for Sharjah Heritage Days (SHD).

The highly decorated event took place in the presence of His Excellency Ahmed Abdullah bin Yarouf Al Naqbi, Chairman of the Dibba Al Hisn Municipal, members of the Municipal Council in the city of Dibba Al-Hisn, directors and employees of local and governmental departments, residents of the city and distinguished guests from various Emirates of the country. Accompanying partners of the event include the Museums on the Road initiative, SHD cultural café, the Children’s Village, popular games, and the theatre program.

The Al-Awayed Al-Harbiyya Ensemble, led by Emirati poet Mohammedi Al Shehhi, added to the festivities, highlighting the atmosphere of national pride during the group’s outstanding presentation of traditional Emirati folk and heritage arts. The ensemble orchestrated and presented several original paintings, including ‘Al-Razif’ and ‘Al-Yola’ on serene rhythms that delighted the audience, who applauded and admired the presentation, demanding an encore.

In the Yemeni session, attendees were introduced to Yemeni heritage literature, followed by several fascinating folklore stories from Romania that visually engaged the audience. Accompanying events also included a rowing competition that was held on the pleasant banks of Dibba Al-Hisn, as an ode to the city’s love of the sea and its historic source of livelihood, culture, and nostalgic memories.

Moving away from the land and sea, the Festival Management rounded out the event, looking towards the sky to offer audience members a marvellous paragliding event, showcasing the skilful art of the pilots. The event ground also witnessed a spectacular show of purebred Arabian horses, while children were overjoyed with whimsical tales, face painting, and meet-and-greets with beloved cartoon characters.