Portugal’s Secretary of State for Culture praises HQA

February 11, 2026 / 2:26 PM

Sharjah 24: His Excellency Alberto Fernando Santos, Portugal’s Secretary of State for Culture, hailed the Holy Quran Academy (HQA) in Sharjah as an extraordinary example of blending tradition with modernity. He described the Academy as a distinguished global cultural institution.

Attendees

The visit was attended by His Excellency Ahmed Abdulrahman Al Mahmoud, UAE Ambassador to Portugal; His Excellency Fernando Durao Figueirinhas, Portuguese Ambassador to the UAE; His Excellency Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage; and His Excellency Abu Bakr Al Kindi, Director of the Institute. They were welcomed by His Excellency Dr Abdullah Khalaf Al Hosani, Secretary-General of the Holy Quran Academy, along with several department directors.

Tour

During the tour of the Quranic museums, the delegation explored the history of Quranic manuscripts, rare copies that chronicle the Quran’s history and showcase various Arabic calligraphy styles, as well as official Qurans from around the world, translated into multiple languages including Portuguese. The visit also included a viewing of the Kiswa (covering) of the Holy Kaaba.

Sharjah provides a truly world-class cultural experience

Portugal’s Secretary of State for Culture praised the significant scholarly, cultural, and heritage efforts of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, highlighting his dedication to documenting and preserving historical manuscripts and records. He emphasised that Sharjah provides a truly world-class cultural experience.

The visit coincided with Portugal’s selection as the Guest of Honor for the 23rd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days.