Sharjah Heritage Days sees remarkable turnout on its second day in Khor Fakkan

Sharjah: The 18^th edition of the Sharjah Heritage Days (SHD) continues in the city of Khor Fakkan “Heritage Area”, as it witnessed a remarkable turnout of attendees on its second day. With its splendour and charm, Sharjah Heritage Days is a link that mixes an ancient past with the charming present. The event is complying with all preventative and precautionary measures to ensure the safety of everyone.

Artistic and heritage performances

In a joyful heritage atmosphere that brought together citizens, residents and heritage lovers in the area of ​​Khor Fakkan, the second day of the 18^th edition of Sharjah Heritage Days began with artistic performances and folk dances of AL-Ayyala art, presented by the Dibba War Band. In addition, traditional competitions were held at the SHD Theatre in Khor Fakkan for all age groups, presented by Ayman Ali Salem, aimed at spreading heritage and cultural awareness.

Enriched events in the heritage area of ​​Khor Fakkan

His Excellency Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of Sharjah Institute for Heritage and Chairman of the Higher Committee of Sharjah Heritage Days, said, “Khor Fakkan continues its activities for the Sharjah Heritage Days festival, and has witnessed an encouraging response and attendance from the emirate’s citizens and residents of all nationalities. The second day of activities was distinguished by the momentum it brought, with a variety of activities from songs, folk dances, heritage competitions, exhibitions and workshops, and the beauty and splendor of the traditional “Haq Al Lailah” celebration. Sharjah Heritage Days has a lot to offer in educating the public on the culture and heritage of Sharjah.”

"Inspiring among us"

A cultural symposium, as part of the activities of Sharjah Heritage Days, was organized at the Youth House in the Heritage Area, under the slogan “Inspired Among Us”, entitled “Cultural Heritage in the United Arab Emirates”. Speaking at the theatre was Dr Rashid Khamis Al Naqbi, Chairman of the Khor Fakkan Municipal Council, Her Excellency Eng. Fawzia Rashid Al-Qadi, Director of Khor Fakkan Municipality, and Mrs Fatima Al-Mughni, a former member of the Consultative Council of Sharjah, and social researcher and expert in folklore.

Dr Rashid Khamis Al Naqbi talked about the ancient folk games that were famous in the city of Khor Fakkan, stressing that the popular games must be revived. He highlighted the importance of educating the new generation on the region’s history and learning from the past. For her part, Her Excellency Eng. Fawzia Al-Qadi spoke about the popular terminology and phrases that no longer exist in language, and have been omitted due to social media, soap operas, and other influencing factors.

In turn, Mrs Fatima Al-Mughni talked about the mechanisms of heritage culture in the UAE, and the role of women and men and their support for each other in establishing customs and traditions in the Emirati family. In her speech, she also touched on the city of Khor Fakkan acting as a model for rooting the intangible heritage, thanks to the vision and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. She continued by saying, “Our presence here in this symposium situated in the heritage area of Khor Fakkan is a testament to the importance of embracing our heritage. Five years ago, this place was nothing but reminiscent of the memories of people, but today and after this reconstruction, there is an increased interest in heritage, which attracts tourists and visitors.”

"Haq Al Laila" celebrated in the heritage area of ​​Khor Fakkan

Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH) celebrated the tradition of “Haq Al Lailah”, a cultural tradition which sees the distribution of special gifts to children, such as Emirati food and sweets at Sharjah Heritage Days in Khor Fakkan. Traditionally, it is celebrated on the night of the fifteenth of Sha’ban.

Khaled Ahmed Obaid Al Shehhi, Director of Sharjah Institute for Heritage, Khor Fakkan branch, confirmed that the celebration is part of ancient Emirati heritage, and has been passed down from generation to generation. He said, “We are keen to revive the celebration of this occasion as an old custom that has a special place in the hearts of Khor Fakkan’s people, and all the people in the emirates. It brings back memories of childhood which cannot be replaced, and must be celebrated and passed on to our children and grandchildren.”

The Sharjah Social Services Department supports productive families

The Social Services Department is participating in Sharjah Heritage Days and displaying many handicrafts made from horse fronds, perfumes, and incense. The exhibition also includes industrial workshops for handicrafts from palm fronds.

Corner of the Sharjah Parents Council –Khor fakkan

The corner of the Student Parents Council in the heritage area of ​​Khor Fakkan also formed an attraction point for students and parents, with students participating to review the ancient past of education in Khor Fakkan. Old pictures of schools and students were displayed, and the corner also included a free studio for children with workshops teaching them to draw and read from various traditional books.

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© Press Release 2021