Launch of 9th Wadi Al Helo Al Shilla Folk Days

January 19, 2026 / 8:34 PM

Sharjah 24: The 9th edition of Wadi Al Helo Al Shilla Folk Days was launched by the Eastern Region’s Department of Culture and held over two consecutive days at the Heritage Village in Wadi Al Helo, with strong public attendance from enthusiasts of the folk poetry art.

Official attendance

The opening was attended by Sheikh Haitham bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Deputy Head of the Sharjah Ruler’s Office in Kalba; Khamis bin Saeed Al Mazrouei, Governor of Wadi Al Helo; and Rashid Mohammed Al Zaabi, Director of the Eastern Region’s Department of Culture, alongside several senior officials from government entities and institutions.

First-day performances

The first day began with performances by Al Mazyud Al Harbia Group, which presented folkloric displays reflecting the continuity between the UAE’s past and present.

Exhibitions and workshops

Visitors then toured the exhibition area, which included a visual art exhibition titled Al Sidrah: Memory of Place, featuring photography by Shahd Al Suraidi, and an art exhibition by Fatima Salem Al Mazrouei showcasing creative photographic works inspired by the local environment and natural landscape. The programme also featured an Arabic calligraphy exhibition by calligrapher Aisha Al Ramsi, followed by a calligraphy workshop.

Community participation

The event witnessed active participation from local residents through poetry, folk poetry performances, Arabic calligraphy and Emirati handicrafts, reinforcing national identity and promoting pride in the UAE’s cultural heritage.

Cultural programme

Following the exhibition tour, the audience was welcomed by media presenter Abdullah Ahmed. A short film highlighting Wadi Al Helo’s landmarks and its urban development was screened, followed by performance pieces titled “Shillat from the Depths of the Mountains”, presented by Wadi Al Helo School (Cycles one, two and three – boys) and Al Haseen Kindergarten. The evening continued with a poetry night hosted by Abdullah Ahmed, featuring folk poet Saif Al Kass Al Kaabi and rebabist Saeed Al Owaisi, celebrating the beauty of authentic verse and traditional music rooted in Emirati culture.

Closing of the first day

The first day concluded with Sheikh Haitham bin Saqr Al Qasimi, accompanied by Rashid Mohammed Al Zaabi, honouring participating entities and individuals with commemorative shields in recognition of their contributions.

Second-day programme

The second day features a theatrical performance titled “The Book of Wishes”, written by Moataz bin Humaid and directed by artist Salem Al Tamimi. It combines storytelling with educational values aimed at inspiring children through messages of ambition and hope, followed by cultural competitions.