Sharjah Illuminates with the Launch of the 15th Sharjah Light Festival
SHARJAH, 4th February, 2026 — H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, marked the commencement of the 15th edition of the Sharjah Light Festival on Tuesday. The festival, themed “Reflections of Belonging”, is being hosted at the Dr Sultan Al Qasimi Centre in University City and runs until 15th February. This vibrant event is organised by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority.
The opening ceremony commenced with the national anthem of the United Arab Emirates, followed by a keynote address by Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority.
“For more than fifteen years, the Sharjah Light Festival has become an artistic platform that combines light with art, heritage with innovation, offering visual experiences that reflect the beauty of Sharjah’s architecture and cultural identity. This aligns with a vision that seeks to make culture and the arts a vital element in sustainable tourism development,” stated Khalid Jasim Al Midfa.
Al Midfa further highlighted the steady growth of the Emirate’s tourism sector, guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. He noted the importance placed on development across various fields, with a strong focus on the human element.
Emphasising the festival’s role, Al Midfa added that the event enhances Sharjah’s vibrant programme of events and delivers economic and social opportunities. This year, more than 75 national projects are participating in the “Light Village,” comprising both emerging ventures and established national brands. This initiative underlines the festival’s efforts in strengthening national entrepreneurship and integrating local businesses into major events, thereby enriching the Emirate’s economic and social landscape.
H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi and attendees witnessed the official opening performance titled “A Journey of Time, A Legacy of Belonging”. This cinematic showcase celebrates Sharjah as a tapestry of identity, unity, and shared memory, retracing the Emirate’s origins from authentic Emirati heritage to its current standing as a nexus of knowledge and culture. Each scene reflected the vision of the Ruler of Sharjah, the spirit of the place, and key aspects of society and education.
The 15th Sharjah Light Festival serves as a creative platform for artists and creators, offering innovative light and interactive experiences, extraordinary artworks, and spectacular light shows that pay tribute to Sharjah’s architectural and cultural legacy through a blend of art, technology, and light.
This year’s edition spans 13 unique locations across Sharjah, including the Dr Sultan Al Qasimi Centre, Al Majaz Waterfront, Aljada, Sharjah Mosque, Kalba Waterfront, Khorfakkan Waterfall, Al Dhaid Fort, the Hanging Gardens in Kalba, Al Tayyari Mosque, General Souq – Al Hamriyah, Al Rafisah Dam, House of Wisdom, and Sharjah Fort.
These carefully selected venues reflect the diversity and cultural richness of the Emirate, highlighting the outstanding beauty and heritage inherent in Sharjah’s landmarks and architecture. The festival’s artistic light displays draw attention to iconic sites that tell the ongoing story of Sharjah’s achievements and cultural heritage.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
