Sharjah: Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) participated in the International Council of Museums (ICOM) General Conference 2025, which took place in Dubai from 11th to 17th November. The event provided a platform that highlighted Sharjah's arts and culture scene and its pioneering role in preserving and showcasing history, heritage, the arts, and museum education.
According to Emirates News Agency, a collaboration between Sharjah Museums Authority, the Sharjah Art Foundation (SAF), and Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) led to the creation of a joint Sharjah stand at the ICOM Museum Fair held at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The stand offered an immersive, multisensory experience under the theme 'Authentic. Timeless. Rich.' It showcased the emirate's museums, heritage sites, art spaces, and community projects, reflecting its cultural identity and Emirati character.
The 'Discover Sharjah' section focused on the emirate's connection to the sea and traditional life. Visitors experienced Emirati sea chants, viewed Abdulqader Al Rais's painting 'Khorfakkan,' and explored elements of old Sharjah, such as coral stones, spices, herbs, and dates, which represent Emirati hospitality.
The stand also highlighted significant milestones, including the Sharjah Archaeology Museum, the Sharjah Art Museum, and the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum, each being the first of their kind in the country or region. Additionally, it noted the Sharjah Biennial's role as a major contemporary art event in the Global South.
The presentation detailed the ten-year progress of the SAWA Museum Studies Program and Sharjah's initiatives to restore historic buildings, transforming them into museums and exhibition spaces. It emphasized the role of Sharjah's museums as centers for learning and community engagement.
Sharjah Museums Authority hosted ICOM committee meetings on 15th November, focusing on leadership, community engagement, collections care, documentation, and the development of art in Sharjah. The program included tours of the Sharjah Archaeology Museum, Sharjah Art Museum, and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization.
On 16th November, SMA welcomed ICOM delegations on field visits to key sites across the emirate, including major museums and heritage landmarks. These visits highlighted the diversity of Sharjah's museums and the historical significance of their locations.
In partnership with Sharjah Art Foundation, SMA also organized two curated tours for conference delegates.