SFRA joins 23rd Sharjah Heritage Days in Dibba Al Hisn

Celebrating maritime heritage

SFRA’s pavilion at the festival offered visitors a glimpse into the UAE’s seafaring past. The SFRA pavilion welcomed visitors with a hands-on look at the UAE's fishing heritage. Old fishing tools and nets were displayed, giving a sense of how generations of local fishermen worked the waters. Many visitors took part in traditional activities such as rowing races and tug-of-war contests, while the "Al Nihaya" troupe enthralled the audience with lively heritage skits. The cameras clicked continuously, capturing the festival’s energy and colour.

Turning to modern practices

SFRA also used the occasion to showcase how it is developing sustainable fisheries. Exhibits explained contemporary fish-farming methods and their importance for supporting food security and protecting the marine environment. Visitors explored the “Mashad” exhibit and a “Virtual World” demonstration, which explained modern fish farming and its vital role in securing food supplies and protecting marine life.

Ali Ahmed Abu Ghazin said the participation was about linking the nation’s maritime history with present-day practices, demonstrating how traditional knowledge and modern techniques complement each other.

He added that working alongside the Dibba Al Hisn Fishermen’s Association strengthened the community and helped preserve traditional fishing for future generations.

The Sharjah Heritage Days festival remains one of the UAE’s key cultural events, attracting large crowds each year and celebrating Emirati traditions from across the Emirates and beyond.