SMA Launches New Publication at 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair

The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is participating in the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair. WAM
The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is participating in the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair. WAM
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SMA Launches New Publication at 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair

The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is participating in the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair. WAM
The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is participating in the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair. WAM

The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is participating in the 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair under the theme “This is How We Begin,” inviting visitors on an inspiring journey to explore its museums.

In celebration of this event, SMA has released a new publication titled “Sharjah Museums,” which takes readers on an enthralling journey through the diverse stories within Sharjah’s museums, Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported.

The publication reflects the vision of Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, who stated, “Museums are made to educate our children and our future generations.” The book is a valuable addition to the cultural library of Sharjah, showcasing the emirate's dedication to preserving its rich heritage.

The book is divided into three comprehensive sections, each spotlighting a unique aspect of Sharjah’s museums, from historical artifacts to Islamic art and modern creativity, WAM said.

The first section, “History and Heritage,” delves into the stages of human existence in Sharjah, presenting rare artifacts from ancient periods, such as the camel figurine discovered in Muweilah, dating back to 900–600 BCE.

The second section, “Art and Culture,” explores Sharjah’s artistic and cultural legacy, showcasing Islamic art and contemporary works that celebrate both local and international creativity.

Finally, the “Discovery and Science” section highlights Sharjah’s contributions to knowledge and discovery, featuring scientific and exploration exhibits that captivate visitors of all ages.

To showcase historical travel techniques and their impact on civilizations, the SMA exhibition platform is designed with three immersive sections that take visitors on a journey of discovery, blending intellectual activities with heritage artifacts.

In the “Journey of Knowledge and Discovery” section, visitors are invited to engage in interactive experiences designed to inspire critical and creative thinking. This section features activities such as the “Color Square,” “Triangle Puzzle,” and “Sense of Touch,” which provide a hands-on experience in a thought-provoking environment.

At the heart of the platform is the “Travel and Exploration Exhibition,” where visitors can explore four unique artifacts from Sharjah Museums that evoke the spirit of discovery and the charm of past journeys. The journey begins with a camel figurine, symbolizing desert expeditions and the deep connection between Arabs and the desert. Discovered at the Muweilah archaeological site in Sharjah, this statue illustrates the camel’s resilience and its essential role in connecting communities across the desert.



UNESCO Honors Al-Bisht Al-Hasawi as Thousands Flock to Al-Ahsa Festival

Visitors can explore interactive displays, participate in live workshops, and witness the meticulous process of tailoring this iconic symbol of prestige - SPA
Visitors can explore interactive displays, participate in live workshops, and witness the meticulous process of tailoring this iconic symbol of prestige - SPA
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UNESCO Honors Al-Bisht Al-Hasawi as Thousands Flock to Al-Ahsa Festival

Visitors can explore interactive displays, participate in live workshops, and witness the meticulous process of tailoring this iconic symbol of prestige - SPA
Visitors can explore interactive displays, participate in live workshops, and witness the meticulous process of tailoring this iconic symbol of prestige - SPA

The third edition of Al-Bisht Al-Hasawi Festival is drawing thousands of regional and international visitors to Ibrahim Palace in historic Al-Hofuf.

Organized by the Heritage Commission, this year’s festival celebrates the inscription of the Bisht on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The event showcases Al-Ahsa’s centuries-old tradition of hand-weaving and gold embroidery, a craft passed down through generations of local families, SPA reported.

Visitors can explore interactive displays, participate in live workshops, and witness the meticulous process of tailoring this iconic symbol of prestige.

With UNESCO's participation and representatives from six countries, the festival has evolved into a global platform for cultural dialogue, cementing the Bisht’s status as a world-class cultural treasure.


Saudi, Syrian Culture Ministers Tour National Museum of Damascus

The ministers observed the museum’s extensive collections spanning prehistoric eras to modern art. SPA
The ministers observed the museum’s extensive collections spanning prehistoric eras to modern art. SPA
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Saudi, Syrian Culture Ministers Tour National Museum of Damascus

The ministers observed the museum’s extensive collections spanning prehistoric eras to modern art. SPA
The ministers observed the museum’s extensive collections spanning prehistoric eras to modern art. SPA

Saudi Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan and his Syrian counterpart, Mohammed Yassin Saleh, have toured the National Museum of Damascus during the Kingdom’s participation as guest of honor at the 2026 Damascus International Book Fair.

The ministers observed on Thursday the museum’s extensive collections spanning prehistoric eras to modern art.

A particular focus was placed on the Arab-Islamic wing, featuring significant artifacts from the Umayyad period.

The Kingdom's participation as guest of honor at the 2026 Damascus International Book Fair, which runs until February 16, stems from the role culture plays within Saudi Vision 2030.


Saudi Culture Minister Inaugurates Kingdom's Pavilion as Guest of Honor at Damascus Book Fair

Saudi Culture Minister Inaugurates Kingdom's Pavilion as Guest of Honor at Damascus Book Fair
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Saudi Culture Minister Inaugurates Kingdom's Pavilion as Guest of Honor at Damascus Book Fair

Saudi Culture Minister Inaugurates Kingdom's Pavilion as Guest of Honor at Damascus Book Fair

Saudi Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, who is the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission Board Chairman, has inaugurated the Kingdom’s pavilion as guest of honor at the 2026 Damascus International Book Fair.

The inauguration took place on Thursday in the Syrian capital in the presence of Syrian Minister of Culture Mohammed Yassin Saleh and his Qatari counterpart, Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad bin Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani.

The Kingdom's participation as guest of honor at the fair, which runs until February 16, stems from the role culture plays within Saudi Vision 2030.

Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission Chief Executive Dr. Abdul Latif Al-Wasil affirmed that the Kingdom's presence as guest of honor at the fair reflects its leading role in the Arab cultural landscape and embodies its belief in the role of culture as a bridge for communication, a space for dialogue, and a tool for supporting joint cultural initiatives.

He explained that the Kingdom's presence in Damascus affirms the depth of Saudi-Syrian relations, based on partnership and mutual respect, and stems from the Kingdom's commitment to strengthening cultural exchange.

The Kingdom's pavilion showcases the cultural and creative diversity of the Saudi cultural and literary scene through a comprehensive cultural program that includes intellectual seminars, poetry evenings, a manuscripts exhibition, a Saudi fashion corner, a hospitality corner, and a corner displaying archaeological replicas, in addition to Saudi performing arts performances that express the depth of the Kingdom's cultural heritage.

The pavilion offers visitors to the exhibition the opportunity to explore aspects of Saudi culture in its literary, heritage, and human dimensions within a cultural experience presented in a unifying Arab spirit, affirming that culture remains one of the most effective means of fostering understanding and building shared meaning.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa met on Thursday with Prince Badr at the Conference Palace in Damascus.

The meeting was attended on the Saudi side by Advisor at the Royal Court Mohammed Al-Tuwaijri, along with other officials.