Cairo hosts 16th Arab Theatre Festival for the 3rd time

January 11, 2026 / 9:11 AM

Sharjah24: The Arab Theatre Authority has officially launched the 16th edition of the Arab Theatre Festival, which is being hosted in Cairo for the third time. The opening took place on Saturday, marking a renewed gathering of Arab theatre practitioners from across the region.

Ismail Abdullah, Secretary-General of the Arab Theatre Authority, said the festival is organised in cooperation with Egypt’s Ministry of Culture, reaffirming the Authority’s role as a unifying home for theatre artists, in line with the vision of Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and Supreme President of the Authority.

Renewed commitment to theatre and culture

Abdullah told Sharjah24 that the Authority renews its pledge to continue supporting theatre practitioners by providing a platform for them to present their ideas, shape their future, and realise their aspirations for a stronger Arab theatre movement and a more culturally enriched Arab society.

Competition for Sharjah Ruler’s Award

A total of 10 theatrical productions are competing for the Sharjah Ruler’s Award for Best Arab Theatre Performance. Festival activities will continue in Cairo until 16 January.