A number of new attractions designed to entertain families, heritage experts, and UAE nationals and residents have been added to the 13th edition of Sharjah Heritage Days festival.

Sharjah Heritage Days devises new activities annually and has this year introduced three villages; Five Senses, Children's Heritage, and Artisan.

His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the opening ceremony.

Sharjah Heritage Days is held in different locations including the Heart of Sharjah and the Middle and Eastern districts.

The event this year, themed "Heritage … The Base of Our Originality”, also includes UAE environment-related features such as marine, mountain, agriculture and desert life exhibits, folkloric art and various cultural and intellectual activities, symposiums, lectures, and photographs, recital of old sayings, "Lageit Yadooh” ("I Found Grandfather”), wit, and daily riddle competitions.

Abdul Aziz Al Musallem, Chairman of the Sharjah Heritage Institute, said, "Sharjah Heritage Days aims to acquaint participants with the authenticity, originality and heritage of the UAE, allowing them to preserve, benefit from, and build on it.”

The event, he said, aims to introduce different aspects of UAE heritage to the world and inspire a generation proud of its roots and willing to develop its community.

In terms of the new additions, the Five Senses Village is an attempt to satisfy the five human senses by giving visitors a tour of the Heritage Area in the Heart of Sharjah so they can see different heritage products, listen to UAE folklore stories, taste delicious savoury dishes and desserts, and admire unique handicrafts. A new "five senses” advertising campaign has also been designed based on the concept of heritage.

The Children's Village includes workshops for colouring and performances of old folk tales and other forms of Arab heritage. Visitors can also enjoy folklore music and displays that highlight the UAE's vast and diverse mountain and desert landscape.

The Artisan Village shines a light on traditional craftsmanship by showcasing the tools used and crafts created, including jewellery, clothes, household utensils, decorative items, storage containers and musical instruments, via this skilful method.

Large numbers of visitors have flocked to the Heart of Sharjah since the festival's start, where they have been greeted with UAE art and dance performances, as well as the popular traditional Emirati fashion show.
Source: The Gulf Today