The Sharjah Institute for Heritage recently welcomed a delegation of students from the summer centres of North Batinah Governorate in Oman. This visit was part of the Summer Centres Programme for 2026, themed “Our Summer: Leadership and Creativity.” The delegation was led by Dr. Abdullah bin Saeed Al-Busaidi, Head of the Executive Committee for Summer Centres in North Batinah.
Introduction to Heritage Preservation
Organised in coordination with the North Batinah Governor’s Office, the visit aimed to familiarise students with the mission of the institute and its role in preserving and safeguarding cultural heritage. During the tour, the students were introduced to the institute’s specialised programmes and initiatives, contributing to their understanding and appreciation of the significance of cultural heritage.
A Tour of the Institute’s Facilities
Upon arrival, the delegation was warmly greeted by Abubakar Al-Kindi, the institute’s director, who guided them through various facilities, including the Crafts Centre, the Heritage Library, the Restoration and Manuscripts Department, the International Heritage Organisations Building, and the Arab Heritage Centre. Here, the students discovered the institute’s efforts in documentation, research, rehabilitation, and safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, along with its role in preserving cultural memory for future generations.
Interactive Heritage Experiences
The visiting students also had the opportunity to explore a collection of heritage artefacts that shed light on the authentic Emirati way of life. They listened to explanations of the historical and cultural significance of these items. Additionally, they witnessed a segment of the Summer Storytelling Camp, engaging with interactive programmes designed to foster a connection to heritage through innovative approaches. This created a comprehensive learning experience that combined knowledge with direct interaction.
Investing in Youth Awareness
Al-Kindi emphasised the importance of student and youth visits, stating that the institute aims to provide a holistic educational experience that highlights the value of heritage and the necessity of its preservation. He stated, “We believe that investing in youth awareness is the true guarantee for the sustainability of heritage. Therefore, we strive to open the institute’s doors to them so they can learn firsthand about efforts to preserve cultural heritage, understanding that heritage is not just a past narrative, but a living identity and future we build together. The institute’s mission extends beyond preserving artefacts to building community awareness; direct experience and interaction with the institute’s facilities and specialised programmes enhance belonging and broaden understanding of heritage as a living human legacy worth protecting and developing for future generations.”
Cultural Cooperation between the UAE and Oman
This visit underscores the cultural cooperation between the Sharjah Institute for Heritage and educational and youth entities in Oman. Organised in response to the request from the North Batinah Governor’s Office, it aims to enhance the exchange of expertise and promote the cultural heritage among youth, reinforcing the values of preserving cultural heritage as a shared civilisational and human asset.
A Memorable Learning Experience
The visit concluded with a meeting at the director’s office, during which Dr. Abdullah bin Saeed Al-Busaidi expressed profound gratitude to the Sharjah Institute for Heritage for its warm welcome and excellent organisation. He praised the high-quality efforts and pioneering initiatives observed by the delegation in the field of cultural heritage preservation. He noted that the visit provided a rich knowledge experience for the students, enhancing their awareness of the value of heritage and its importance in reinforcing cultural identity. Acknowledging the institute’s pioneering programmes and initiatives in preserving cultural heritage, he expressed hope for continued cooperation and exchange of expertise between both sides for the benefit of future generations and to bolster the presence of heritage in their consciousness.