As the summer winds down, the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in collaboration with the Dibba Al-Hisn Municipality, is set to launch the 13th edition of the “Salinity and Marine Fishing Festival 2026”. Scheduled to take place from August 27 to August 30 on Al-Hisn Island in Dibba Al-Hisn, this festival aims to celebrate the rich maritime heritage of the United Arab Emirates while promoting sustainable fishing practices, local economies, and cultural workshops.
A Celebration of Maritime Heritage
The Salinity and Marine Fishing Festival has established itself as an annual platform dedicated to preserving traditional fishing practices and the salinity trade. It brings together efforts to safeguard popular heritage while boosting economic and tourist activity in the Eastern Region. This initiative reflects the commitment of the Sharjah Chamber and Dibba Al-Hisn Municipality to maintain the cultural identity of the UAE by highlighting marine professions integral to the nation’s heritage and the lives of coastal communities.
Engaging Activities for All
The festival will feature participation from various government bodies and private sector companies involved in the salinity trade, alongside contributions from local families showcasing their handmade products. Festival-goers can explore the “Main Salinity Market”, a designated area for local producers to display their artisanal goods and traditional foods. Additionally, there will be an agricultural produce market and various food stalls from local restaurants. The event will also host specialized platforms exhibiting the latest fishing equipment, engines, and marine vessels, fostering partnerships and innovation within this vital sector.
Economic and Cultural Development
Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al-Awadi, Director General of the Sharjah Chamber, expressed that the festival has evolved beyond a simple cultural celebration; it now acts as an economic driver aligned with the Emirate’s development goals. He mentioned plans for continuous improvement in each edition to cater to the evolving needs of entrepreneurs and ensure tangible benefits for local families, startups, and companies within the marine and heritage sectors.
Focused on Youth and Sustainability
This year, particular emphasis will be placed on transforming traditional maritime crafts into investment opportunities for the younger generation. Expanded training programmes and workshops will connect fishing practices with environmental sustainability requirements, creating a supportive environment that enhances the value of food industries and traditional crafts.
Preparations Underway for a Grand Event
Talib Abdullah Al-Yahyai, Director of Dibba Al-Hisn Municipality, reassured attendees that preparations for this edition are underway, adhering to the highest organisational quality standards to ensure a remarkable experience for all visitors and participants. He highlighted that Dibba Al-Hisn continues to solidify its status as a leading tourist and cultural destination in the Eastern Region of Sharjah.
Exciting Schedule of Events
The 13th edition of the festival promises an array of interactive and educational programmes. Improvements to the venue’s infrastructure will allow for enhanced space for exhibitors and educational workshops, while attention to sustainable fishing practices and measures to protect fish stocks will support the local community and boost tourism within the Emirate. Among the diverse offerings are daily educational workshops on fish salting, preservation and canning techniques, exhibitions showcasing traditional fishing tools, and awareness seminars focused on fish stock protection. Additionally, cultural competitions for visitors and children, as well as live demonstrations of net weaving and boat-building crafts, will further enrich the festival experience.