Inside Sharjah’s plan to become the cultural and creative capital of the Arab world

Sharjah International Summit on Improvement in Education where students showcase their solutions

Sharjah, the third-largest emirate of the UAE, has long been known for its cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and commitment to education and sustainability. Aligning itself to the larger economic goal of the UAE, Sharjah continues to evolve and cement its place as the cultural heartbeat of the Arab world.

Culture and Commerce

The emirate’s commitment to preserving Arabic heritage while embracing modernity is evident in projects like the Sharjah Art Foundation, Al Qasba, and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation, which houses more than 5000 artefacts from the Islamic world. The Sharjah Department of Culture unveils a rich and engaging annual events calendar to showcase Emirati culture and foster creative collaborations.

The Sharjah Biennial, an international contemporary art exhibition that started in 1993, continues to attract artists and visitors from all over the world, establishing Sharjah as a global destination for art and culture. In 2025, the Sharjah Creative Quarter (SCQ) was established to promote creative industries, design and innovations, and artists. Located near the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park, SCQ also houses the first school for jewellery in Sharjah, supported by French luxury brand Van Cleef and Arpels.

Green Living

The Sharjah Sustainable City is an ambitious project designed to offer green homes and smart solutions. The city features energy-efficient buildings, water-saving technologies, and renewable energy sources that prioritise the environment and minimise the ecological footprint of its growing population.

Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi and Global education leaders convene at the 4th Sharjah International Summit on Improvement in Education

Sharjah has developed a robust ecosystem for start-ups and tech companies, particularly in its free zones like the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) and the Sharjah Media City

Economic Diversification and Entrepreneurship

In recent years, the emirate has made significant strides in diversifying its economic base. Sharjah has already developed a robust ecosystem for start-ups and tech companies, particularly in its free zones like the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) and the Sharjah Media City. These free zones offer tax incentives and state-of-the-art infrastructure, making Sharjah an attractive destination for global entrepreneurs.

Global Education Hub

Education will continue to be a cornerstone of Sharjah’s development. The Sharjah International Summit on Improvement in Education, held in February 2025, brought over 190 educationists for panel discussions and workshops. UNESCO IESALC joined for a keynote address highlighting the necessity for regional collaborations and digital advancement for making education more inclusive and global. Sharjah’s educational landscape is complemented by the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park, which is an R&D centre supporting the UAE’s ambition to lead in technology and innovation.

With strategic policy implementation, Sharjah can position itself as the emirate that has kept its past, present, and future in cultural and economic harmony. It must strike a fine balance between art and commerce which can do justice to its moniker as the ‘Cultural Capital of the Arab World’.