A new chapter in celebrating Emirati heritage is set to unfold with the inaugural “Al Wusta Heritage Festival,” organised by Al Wusta Channel from Al Dhaid, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council. The festival will kick off on Thursday, 29th October 2026, and run for four days at the historic Al Dhaid Fort, opening its doors to visitors daily from 5:00 PM.
The festival will commence with camel racing competitions, scheduled for 6:30 AM on both Thursday and Friday. Viewers can catch the live coverage on Al Wusta Channel, offering them an opportunity to witness the significance of camels in Emirati heritage and national identity up close.
A diverse programme of cultural and entertainment activities will be featured throughout the event, appealing to various community interests and reflecting the traditional way of life in the Central Region. Activities will be showcased in zones highlighting the authenticity of Bedouin heritage, featuring performances by military bands, folk songs, poetry evenings with esteemed poets, and interactive activities. These engaging events aim to introduce younger generations to traditional Emirati customs and values.
The festival will also dedicate a space for handicrafts, attracting numerous contributions from local families and renowned Emirati projects, showcasing the richness of local heritage while supporting national initiatives. Throughout the four-day event, attendees can look forward to daily raffles offering valuable prizes, alongside instant awards during various competitions and activities.
Al Wusta Channel will broadcast a special programme live from a field studio, providing in-depth coverage of the festival and capturing its key moments through live interviews and event follow-ups, thereby illuminating its cultural, heritage, and community dimensions.
Saeed Rashid bin Fadl Al Ketbi, Director of Al Wusta Channel, emphasised that the launch of the festival aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. He recalled the Ruler’s statement, “Bedouinism refuses to part with its people,” which encapsulates the deep connection of the region’s residents to their rich heritage and their steadfast pride in their customs and traditions.
Al Ketbi further remarked, “The first edition of the Al Wusta Heritage Festival commemorates a decade-long journey of preserving this invaluable heritage. The choice of Al Dhaid Fort as the venue symbolises a close link between past and present, and our aim is to engage all segments of the community through a diverse programme that blends authenticity with entertainment, expanding opportunities for participation and support.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude to the strategic partners for their pivotal role in the event’s success and inviting the public from all Emirates to visit Al Dhaid and partake in the celebrations of this exceptional edition, which heralds a new and flourishing chapter for the channel.