Sharjah Ruler Celebrates Global Cultural Heritage Excellence at Award Ceremony
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi honoured the sixth edition winners of the Sharjah International Award for Cultural Heritage, recognising outstanding achievements in preserving humanity's shared legacy across three continents.
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, presided over a distinguished ceremony at the Sharjah Institute for Heritage on Tuesday, celebrating the latest recipients of the Sharjah International Award for Cultural Heritage (SIACH). The event underscored Sharjah’s commitment to safeguarding humanity’s cultural treasures through recognition and support for those dedicated to this vital work.
The programme opened with a traditional performance of Al Ahal art by the Sharjah National Band, followed by a presentation illuminating the award’s mission and evolution. Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of SIACH, praised His Highness’s pioneering leadership in establishing the award as the Arab world’s first international standard-setting initiative for cultural heritage preservation. He reflected on how the initiative has elevated heritage from a neglected concern to a priority for countries worldwide, fostering civilisational dialogue and cultural exchange.
The ceremony recognised excellence across three principal categories. Dr Abdulla Al Taboor received the Cultural Heritage Personality of the Year Award, acknowledging outstanding individual contribution. In Best Practices for Safeguarding Cultural Heritage, the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority won locally, whilst the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ICESCO) and researcher Zhu Wucheng from China received Arab and international honours respectively.
Dr Fatema Ali Mohammed Ali Al Memari prevailed in the local Best Research and Studies category, with researchers Huda bint Mubarak bin Humaid and Thuraya bint Abdullah from Oman winning regionally, and Davor Sedlarevic from Montenegro recognised internationally. The Best Narrators and Bearers of Cultural Heritage category honoured Rashid bin Abdulla Al Mahyan Al Ketbi locally, Hafida Hamoud from Morocco regionally, and Wee Shelia Moira Nee Wilson from Singapore internationally.
Secretary-General Aisha Rashid Al Hussan Al Shamsi articulated the award’s philosophy: heritage preservation represents a collective responsibility transcending mere historical retention. The living traditions, knowledge systems and connections heritage provides link present generations to their roots whilst enriching humanity’s collective consciousness. This perspective positions cultural stewardship as essential to human dignity and social cohesion across all societies.
His Highness additionally honoured the award’s judging panel, sponsors and scientific committee, acknowledging the collaborative effort required for such meaningful cultural initiatives.
Source: WAM