Mohammed bin Humaid launches 3rd Sharjah Classic Cars Festival

The festival runs until Sunday, January 25, under the theme "When Time Moves," showcasing a distinguished collection of rare and classic vehicles alongside daily panel discussions and activities designed for all family members.

The opening ceremony was attended by Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Government Relations Department, and Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of the Sharjah Digital Department, in addition to Dr Mohammed bin Butti Al Hajeri, Vice Chairman of the Board of the Sharjah Classic Cars Club; several board members; classic car enthusiasts; and representatives of local media outlets.

During his tour of the festival, Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi reviewed a number of rare and historic vehicles and listened to detailed explanations of their origins, heritage significance and ownership stories. He commended the organisers for presenting the festival in a format that blends knowledge with enjoyment, reflecting Sharjah’s commitment to preserving heritage and presenting it in a contemporary and engaging manner.

As part of the opening activities, Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi launched a commemorative stamp collection issued by Emirates Post in cooperation with the Sharjah Classic Cars Club and Museum. The collection features iconic vintage vehicles from the private collection of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid also signed the official commemorative plaque for the stamp set, which collectors will soon have access to.

The first day's programme included a panel discussion titled "Classic Cars: A Bridge Between Cultures," featuring Emirati traveller Sheikh Awadh bin Majran and moderated by media professional Mohammed Ibrahim. Sheikh Awadh praised the steady development of the festival and spoke about the role of travel in discovering countries and understanding their natural environments, noting that the Land Cruiser was among the earliest vehicles used by UAE citizens for both domestic and international journeys.

He emphasised that travellers represent their countries abroad and contribute to cultural exchange by conveying a positive image of the UAE and the nations they visit. He also highlighted the importance of hosting such festivals in preserving the history and cultural heritage associated with cars and travel, pointing out their material and investment value, and stressing the need to remain connected to history despite modern advancement.

At the conclusion of the first day, Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, accompanied by Dr Mohammed bin Butti Al Hajeri, honoured the guest speaker and session moderator, along with representatives of the Gulf Mechanical Centre, the BMW dealer and official sponsor of the festival; the Sharjah Driving Institute, the silver sponsor; and the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, the festival’s strategic supporter, in recognition of their role in supporting and ensuring the success of the event.

In his address at the opening ceremony, Dr Mohammed bin Butti Al Hajeri said the Sharjah Classic Cars Festival has become a well-established annual fixture on the emirate’s cultural and heritage calendar. He noted that the festival combines specialised classic car displays with a range of accompanying activities that revive the charm of past eras and offer younger generations a modern and interactive window into this rich heritage.