Istanbul, UAE – The Sharjah Heritage Institute is participating in the Istanbul International Heritage Exhibition and Conference 2026, which specializes in the fields of restoration, antiquities, museums, and library technologies. Which kicked off on Wednesday at the Yenikapı Eurasia Exhibition and Events Center in Istanbul, Turkey. It will continue until April 4, with wide participation from cultural institutions, experts and specialists in heritage preservation from various countries of the world.
His Excellency Dr. Abdulaziz Al Muslim, President of the Sharjah Heritage Institute, stressed in his speech during the opening session that cultural heritage represents a civilizational bridge that enhances dialogue between peoples. Pointing to Sharjah’s pioneering experience in preserving tangible and intangible heritage and reviving historic cities.
He explained that Sharjah’s interest in heritage began in the 1980s with the vision, guidance and supervision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Who adopted a comprehensive vision that realized early on that heritage is not limited to historical buildings and sites only, but also includes living memory, cultural practices and inherited traditions, reflecting an integrated cultural identity.
official visit
The opening program included an official tour during which attendees were briefed on the participating pavilions, including the Sharjah Heritage Institute pavilion. Who presented his most prominent initiatives and programs in the fields of research, training and documentation.
Dr. Al-Muslim also participated in the conference’s scientific program, presenting a session on the first day during which he reviewed Sharjah’s experience in heritage protection, highlighting prominent restoration projects, the revival of historical sites, and scientific documentation and publishing efforts. Highlighting projects to revive Sharjah’s Old City, including houses, forts and markets. In addition to reviving heritage villages in Khorfakkan, Al Lu’lu’iyah, and Al Zubarah, developing the Dhaid Oasis, and reactivating traditional irrigation systems such as aflaj. Pointing out that protecting heritage is linked to documenting it and disseminating it scientifically. Pointing to Sharjah’s role in publishing specialized books and periodicals that enhance knowledge and transform experiences into scientific references.
His Excellency said that the Sharjah Heritage Institute was selected by UNESCO as a Category II international centre for capacity building in the field of intangible heritage conservation. It is an indication of the global status achieved by Sharjah.
Restoration of heritage monuments
On the other hand, the Sharjah Heritage Institute is organizing, on Friday, as part of its current participation in the event, a session entitled “Restoration Projects in the Emirate of Sharjah”, presented by Engineer Sultan Al Hammadi. Which highlights the role of the Sharjah Heritage Institute in restoring heritage landmarks such as forts, castles, walls, historic houses, markets and old neighborhoods. By paying attention to tangible and intangible heritage in a balanced manner, experimenting with environmentally appropriate materials, and attracting international best practices. In addition to integrating students and the local community into the restoration process.
The Sharjah Heritage Institute’s participation in the event comes within the framework of strengthening Sharjah’s global presence and exchanging experiences with international institutions concerned with protecting human heritage.
