Department of Culture releases issue 341 of Al Rafid magazine

Sharjah Desert Theatre Festival and Independence Square

The issue opens with extensive coverage of the ninth edition of the Sharjah Desert Theatre Festival, which included a theatrical performance written by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. It also covers the inauguration ceremony of the "Independence Square" project by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, held in conjunction with the UAE's National Day celebrations, as an urban symbol embodying national identity and historical memory.

University of Art

The issue also highlights His Highness's issuance of an Emiri decree establishing the "University of Art in Sharjah," a non-profit academic institution aimed at unifying and developing specialised arts education, a step that further solidifies the emirate's role as a hub for creativity.

Guest of honour

The issue also highlighted Sharjah's selection as Guest of Honour at the 2026 Warsaw International Book Fair, underscoring its global cultural standing. It dedicated significant space to covering the 26th edition of the Siraj Islamic Arts Festival, which featured over 170 artists showcasing works inspired by the aesthetics of light and Islamic heritage, along with a review of the most prominent accompanying exhibitions and events.

Shams studios

The issue also highlighted ambitious media projects, such as the launch of Shams Studios, the largest unified government media hub, and humanitarian initiatives like the Sharjah Investment in Human Capital Conference and the establishment of the Jawaher Al Qasimi Chair for Palestinian Studies.

Women achievements

The issue celebrated women's achievements through initiatives by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi, such as the Jawaher Scholarship Programme for Academic Advancement in Morocco, the efforts of Her Highness Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi in publishing the book "Sharjah: Capital of Culture," and the appointment of Her Highness Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi as Ambassador Extraordinary for Arab Culture to ALECSO. This issue includes rich sections on the "Houses of Poetry" events, which feature poetry readings from Sharjah, Tetouan, Nouakchott, Mafraq, Kairouan, Marrakech, and Luxor; "University News," which follows the achievements of local universities; and diverse news covering cultural events and community initiatives.

This issue reinforces Sharjah's image as an inspiring model for investing in human capital and knowledge, and highlights significant milestones in its comprehensive development journey under the wise leadership of its rulers.