SIH wraps up Activating Heritage Areas programme in Khorfakkan

January 10, 2026 / 5:38 PM

Sharjah 24: The Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH) concluded its “Activating Heritage Areas” programme in Khorfakkan, with the Al Sidra Heritage serving as the programme’s final destination. The event attracted a large audience and strong community participation, reflecting growing awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and promoting its role in society.

Khorfakkan celebrates local heritage

The event took place in a lively cultural and social setting that showcased the authenticity of Emirati heritage. Among the attendees were Abdullah Mohammed Salem Al Naqbi, Director of the SIH – Khorfakkan Branch, and His Excellency Engineer Ali Makhlouf, Member of the Khorfakkan Municipal Council, alongside officials and heritage enthusiasts from the region.

Diverse cultural and artistic activities

The programme featured a variety of cultural, artistic, and heritage activities, including folk performances, poetry and theatrical segments inspired by local traditions, traditional games, and interactive programmes that revived ancestral practices. A specialised lecture highlighted the role of field collection in documenting and preserving local heritage.

Community partnerships and interactive experiences

The event also showcased a classic car exhibition and participation from productive families and local government departments, supporting traditional crafts and strengthening community partnerships. Interactive competitions and folk games were organised in collaboration with the Arab Heritage Center – Events and Activities Department, and the Environment and Protected Areas Authority.

Strong attendance highlights collaborative efforts

The closing ceremony saw participation from Ahmed Hassan of Khorfakkan Sports Club, Khalid Murad of Khorfakkan Sports and Cultural Club, heritage researcher Fatima Al-Mughni, Tariq Al-Hammadi, Director of Port Security, Her Excellency Dr Marwa Hassan Al-Naqbi of the Khorfakkan Municipal Council, and Engineer Abdulaziz Al-Hammadi from the municipality. Their presence reflected the integrated efforts of institutions and the community to support heritage initiatives.

Closing ceremony reflects SIH’s cultural vision

The closing ceremony exemplified the Sharjah Institute for Heritage’s mission to revive national heritage using contemporary approaches, strengthen community engagement—especially among younger generations—and embed cultural heritage as a living, integral part of the nation’s identity.