Sharjah: H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, attended the launch of the 15th edition of the Sharjah Light Festival. The festival, held under the theme 'Reflections of Belonging', is organised by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority and runs from 3 to 15 February at Dr Sultan Al Qasimi Centre in the University City.
According to Emirates News Agency, the opening ceremony began with the national anthem of the United Arab Emirates, followed by a speech from Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority. He highlighted the festival's growth and success over the years, emphasising its economic and social impact.
Al Midfa stated that the Sharjah Light Festival has become an artistic platform combining light with art and heritage with innovation. The festival offers visual experiences that reflect the beauty of Sharjah's architecture and cultural identity, aligning with a vision that integrates culture and the arts into sustainable tourism development.
He mentioned that the Emirate's tourism sector continues to grow, guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. This vision has laid the foundations for development across various fields, focusing on the human element.
Al Midfa also stressed the festival's importance within Sharjah's programme of events. He noted that it provides opportunities to support small and medium national enterprises, with more than 75 national projects participating this year in the 'Light Village'. This participation includes both emerging ventures and established national brands, highlighting the festival's role in promoting national entrepreneurship.
H.H., along with attendees, witnessed the official opening performance titled 'A Journey of Time, A Legacy of Belonging'. The cinematic show celebrates Sharjah as a story of identity, unity, and shared memory, tracing the Emirate's journey from its Emirati heritage to its current status as a city rooted in knowledge and culture.
The 15th edition of the Sharjah Light Festival serves as a platform for creators and artists, presenting innovative light and interactive experiences, artworks, and light shows that celebrate Sharjah's architectural and cultural heritage.
This year's festival spans 13 locations across the Emirate, including Dr Sultan Al Qasimi Centre, Al Majaz Waterfront, Aljada, Sharjah Mosque, Kalba Waterfront, Khorfakkan Waterfall, Al Dhaid Fort, the Hanging Gardens in Kalba, Al Tayyari Mosque, General Souq - Al Hamriyah, Al Rafisah Dam, House of Wisdom, and Sharjah Fort.
The selected sites reflect Sharjah's diversity and culture, highlighting the beauty of the Emirate's landmarks and architecture. The artistic displays bring attention to iconic sites that tell stories of Sharjah's cultural heritage and achievements.
