Exploring Cultural Dimensions: The Second Heritage Conference in Sharjah
SHARJAH (WAM) – Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the second Heritage Conference organized by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH) is set to take place from July 2 to July 3, 2025, under the evocative theme “Folk Heritage Through the Eyes of Others.” This significant event will unfold at the Arabian Heritage Centre, located within Sharjah’s University City, and will welcome a cohort of distinguished academics, experts, and professionals from various Arab and international backgrounds.
The conference seeks to illuminate the narratives surrounding Emirati and Arab folk heritage as filtered through the perspectives of foreign researchers. This undertaking involves a series of academic presentations and discussions that delve into the intricate, often reciprocal interactions between local traditions and global viewpoints.
The impetus behind this gathering is nested in the ongoing efforts of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage to cultivate civilizational dialogue and to promote a thorough exchange of knowledge regarding heritage preservation and its intergenerational transmission. In doing so, the conference positions itself as a platform for fostering a deeper understanding of how cultural histories can resonate across borders, transcending geographical and sociopolitical differences.
The first day of the conference will feature the inauguration of a complementary exhibition titled “Our Heritage Through Their Eyes.” This exhibition will showcase an array of artworks, documents, and field research undertaken by non-Arab researchers, who have dedicated their endeavors to uncovering and documenting aspects of folk heritage from the region. It serves not only as an exhibition but also as a celebration of the collaborative spirit that drives scholarly inquiry in the realm of cultural heritage.
The structured program for the conference spans two days and comprises six specialized sessions that meticulously address a broad spectrum of themes. These themes encompass foreign perceptions of folk heritage, the dialogues within cultural discourse in international studies, and the critical role that global institutions play in the preservation of heritage. Furthermore, the event will include presentations of research projects and field studies that illustrate various regional approaches to understanding and conserving cultural heritage.
In a commendable recognition of academic excellence, the Sharjah Institute for Heritage has announced the selection of Dr. Saif Mohammed bin Aboud Al Bedwawi as the honouree for this year’s conference. Dr. Al Bedwawi has been acknowledged for his significant contributions to the fields of historiography and cultural heritage, as well as his notable efforts in documenting the national memory of the UAE. His work not only preserves historical narratives but also supports the reinforcement of cultural identity through academic research and reference materials.
Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, the Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH), articulated the significance of the conference as a pivotal intellectual milestone for the Institute. He underscored the importance of making this conference an “open space for dialogue” with researchers from around the world. “We strive to understand how our heritage is perceived beyond our borders, and how we can present it in ways that not only preserve its authenticity but also align with current cultural transformations,” he stated.
The timing of this conference is particularly pertinent in an era marked by rapid cultural globalization, where the exchange of ideas and practices is facilitated through advances in technology and communication. As researchers and practitioners in the field of heritage grapple with these shifts, the insights shared during this event are poised to provoke thoughtful discussions about the evolving nature of cultural heritage and its implications within a contemporary context.
As the world increasingly recognizes the importance of preserving diverse cultural narratives, the Sharjah Heritage Conference stands as a testament to the commitment of the Emirati community and its allies, ensuring that rich traditions are neither forgotten nor overlooked but rather celebrated and shared across the globe.
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