Photo Credit : WAM
The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is showcasing the UAE’s rich maritime heritage at the fifth edition of Make it in the Emirates 2026, currently taking place at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from May 4 to 7. The event is hosted by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology and organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Abu Dhabi Investment Office, and ADNOC Group.
Through a curated programme led by the Sharjah Maritime Museum, SMA is presenting a blend of historical collections, traditional crafts, and expert-led discussions that highlight the deep-rooted connection between heritage, industry, and innovation. The initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader vision to strengthen local manufacturing, promote sustainability, and position culture as a driver of knowledge and economic development.
Visitors can explore a wide range of artefacts that trace the evolution of seafaring life in the Emirates, from navigation tools such as astrolabes, compasses, and telescopes to pearl-diving equipment, merchant tools, and the traditional pearl chest known as Al Bishtakhta. The exhibition also features fishing gear, including Al Leekh nets and Al Gargour traps, alongside shipbuilding materials and tools used in Al Jalfah, the traditional craft of wooden boat construction.
Adding further depth, the showcase includes scale models of historic vessels such as the Al Boum, Al Sanbuk, and Al Bateel, reflecting the region’s long-standing maritime traditions in fishing, trade, and transport. Live demonstrations offer visitors an interactive experience, with activities such as pearl oyster opening (Falq Al Mah’ar), net weaving, and the construction of the Al Shasha boat—one of the UAE’s oldest palm-frond vessels.
A key highlight of the programme is a panel discussion scheduled for May 6 titled “The Role of Women in Pearl Diving Journeys in Emirati Heritage.” The session will shed light on the vital contributions of Emirati women in supporting pearl-diving communities, from sustaining households to preserving cultural traditions.
SMA’s participation underscores its commitment to preserving the UAE’s maritime legacy while presenting it as a living source of inspiration for modern creativity and industry. The initiative also reinforces Sharjah’s standing as a leading cultural hub that bridges heritage with future-focused dialogue and innovation.
