Image Credit : inst Bodour Alqasimi
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), attended the official launch of Sharjah: The Capital of Culture, a luxury publication created in collaboration with renowned global publisher Assouline.
The book captures Sharjah’s evolution as a beacon of culture, heritage, and innovation, tracing its transformation into one of the Arab world’s leading cultural capitals.
A Celebration of Heritage and Innovation
The launch, held at Sharjah’s House of Wisdom, offered guests a multisensory experience that merged tradition with modern creativity. The evening featured 3D architectural projections, sculptural art installations, live demonstrations of Emirati craftsmanship, calligraphy, music, and fine dining prepared by Michelin-starred chef Meera Al Naqbi.
Through these immersive displays, visitors explored Sharjah’s artistic and cultural identity — one that celebrates history while embracing progress.
‘Where Heritage and Innovation Meet’
Speaking at the event, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi said, “Sharjah’s cultural journey continues to bridge heritage and innovation, illuminating the world through knowledge, creativity, and human connection.”
She underlined that the collaboration with Assouline reflects Sharjah’s belief that authentic progress emerges when cultural identity and innovation evolve together.
Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, described the publication as a reflection of Sharjah’s ongoing development under visionary leadership, adding that it reinforces the authority’s mission to achieve sustainable growth anchored in heritage and purpose.
Prosper Assouline, co-founder of Assouline Publishing, praised Sharjah’s ability to preserve its cultural roots while embracing contemporary expressions that represent its dynamic spirit.
Seven Chapters of Culture, Creativity, and Discovery
Divided into seven chapters, the book explores Sharjah’s diverse cultural ecosystem — spanning architecture, art, education, environment, literature, museums, and craftsmanship.
It features some of the emirate’s most iconic landmarks, including the Heart of Sharjah, House of Wisdom, Sharjah Mosque, and Mleiha National Park. The book also highlights Sharjah’s global milestones such as its UNESCO recognitions, the inscription of Faya Palaeolandscape as a World Heritage Site, and signature events like the Sharjah International Book Fair, Sharjah Biennial, and Sharjah Publishing City.
Through its rich blend of photography, research, and storytelling, Sharjah: The Capital of Culture presents the emirate as a place where the past and future coexist seamlessly. A collector’s edition is now available at the House of Wisdom, on Assouline.com, and in select international bookstores.
A Literary and Visual Masterpiece
The event drew dignitaries, cultural figures, and media representatives, including Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, and Eisa Yousif. Guests enjoyed sculptural installations curated by the Sharjah Art Foundation, interactive calligraphy sessions, and traditional Emirati art demonstrations — all underscoring the emirate’s creative depth and global influence.
Sharjah: The Capital of Culture stands as both a literary archive and a visual celebration of an emirate that continues to inspire the world through knowledge, art, and cultural dialogue.
