Sharjah Marks 25 Years of Storytelling at International Forum
Sharjah, UAE – His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the 25th Sharjah International Narrator Forum (SINF) on Monday, September 22, 2025. The event runs until September 26 at the Centre for International Cultural Heritage Organisations in University City, under the theme “Tales of Travellers.”
A Quarter Century of Storytelling
The forum opened with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by a speech from Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH) and the forum’s Higher Organising Committee. He highlighted how SINF has grown over 25 years into a key platform for preserving and sharing oral traditions.
Dr. Al Musallam praised Sheikh Sultan’s vision, noting how his support has made Sharjah a global hub for storytellers, researchers, and experts working to safeguard intangible cultural heritage.
Protecting Human Treasures
Al Musallam described Sharjah as a meeting point for narrators and a model for protecting human heritage. He emphasized that the emirate’s work ensures stories and traditions are preserved for future generations, keeping them alive and preventing them from fading away.
Tales of Travellers: Celebrating Cultural Stories
This year’s theme, “Tales of Travellers,” focuses on travel literature and stories passed through generations, highlighting the cultural value of travelers’ experiences.
The forum hosts more than 120 narrators, researchers, and media representatives from 37 countries. The Republic of Maldives is the guest of honour for its unique storytelling traditions.
The programme includes three exhibitions:
- “Around the World” by Emirati author Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr
- Artworks by Meera Al Qasim
- A heritage exhibition honoring the explorer Ibn Battuta
Over 40 new books are being launched, featuring contributions from cultural organisations, universities, and research institutes.
Honouring Cultural Figures
The opening ceremony featured a short film showcasing SINF’s 25-year journey, from local Emirati storytellers to international collaborations, including partnerships with UNESCO.
Sheikh Sultan honored Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr as the Honorary Personality of the Forum and Dr. Claudia Maria as the Juridical Personality, recognizing their contributions to culture and heritage. Emirati narrators also received certificates and commemorative shields.
Exhibitions and Heritage Displays
Sheikh Sultan toured the exhibitions, which showcased works from across the Arab world. He explored artwork and heritage displays highlighting diverse national cultures.
At Al Murr’s exhibition, “Around the World: Journeys and Observations,” Sheikh Sultan viewed paintings reflecting the author’s love for travel and discovery. Al Murr, considered a modern-day traveler, believes exploration is a path to self-discovery.
Global Participation
The forum brings together participants from the UAE, GCC countries, Yemen, Comoros, Iraq, Egypt, Syria, Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon, North Africa, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Countries include Italy, France, Germany, the UK, China, Japan, Turkiye, Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Senegal, Kenya, Malaysia, and the Maldives.
Academic institutions are also well-represented, including:
- University of Sharjah
- University of Turin, Italy
- Zhejiang University, China
- Higher Institute of Folk Arts, Egypt
- Qatar National Library
Local partners include Sharjah Museums Authority, Al Hamriyah Municipality, and Sharjah Libraries.
Workshops and Publications
The forum offers over 25 workshops on oral and visual storytelling, giving a platform for knowledge sharing between experts and younger generations.
More than 40 new publications are being launched, including:
- “Travel Literature in the Arab World”
- Ten-part series “Eyes of Journeys” featuring highlights from Arab travel writings
Special sessions, newsletters, and a book signing corner are also part of the agenda, making SINF both a cultural festival and research platform.
Strong Official Presence
The opening ceremony was attended by:
- Sheikh Dr. Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ruler’s Office
- Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Statistics and Community Development
- Sheikh Salem bin Mohammed bin Salem Al Qasimi, Director of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority
Senior officials, international delegations, and storytellers from across the globe were also present.
SINF: A Global Storytelling Platform
Now in its 25th year, SINF continues to be a bridge between cultures, a guardian of folklore, and a platform for the exchange of stories that connect people across borders. Its legacy in preserving oral traditions ensures that cultural heritage remains vibrant and relevant for future generations.
