Sharjah Advisory Council Approves Arts University Regulation Bill in Its 14th Session

As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the academic and artistic landscape, the Sharjah Advisory Council approved a bill for 2026 concerning the regulation of the Arts University during its fourteenth session. This step is significant for the development of arts education in the emirate, with several amendments made to the bill based on in-depth discussions during the council’s proceedings.

Session Details

The session was chaired by Her Excellency Halima Hamid Al Owais, who reviewed the Arts University regulation bill in the presence of several prominent figures. Attendees included His Excellency Dr. Mansour Mohammed bin Nassar, head of the Legal Department for the Government of Sharjah, and Her Excellency Dr. Aisha Mohammed Obaid Boukhater Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Sharjah Council for Education, Higher Education, and Scientific Research.

At the beginning of the session, Al Owais expressed her pride in the efforts made to enhance national identity, noting that the social campaign “We Pride in the UAE” reflects the significant value that community members place on their homeland. She added, “We take pride in a nation that has turned dreams into reality and challenges into achievements.”

Importance of the Project

Her Excellency Meera Khalifa Al Maqreb, the council’s Secretary-General, explained that the project was referred to the council based on a letter from the General Secretariat of the Executive Council on March 31, 2026. This aims to establish a clear path for regulating the Arts University and developing academic programs. Dr. Mansour Mohammed bin Nassar mentioned that the Arts University regulation bill was prepared to align with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi by providing education that prepares graduates to engage in the creative industry both locally and internationally.

Review of the Bill’s Provisions

His Excellency member Obaid Ishaq Al Mazmi read the provisions of the bill, highlighting the definitions, objectives, and competencies involved. Members discussed the provisions included in the Arts University regulation bill that support the academic program and promote performing and visual arts. The discussion focused on how to empower the university to achieve its goals, emphasizing the importance of training programs for all age groups.

After an extensive discussion on the legal points of the bill, support was solidified for the establishment and distinction of the Arts University. Council members noted the importance of contributions that nations can make in this context.

Next Steps

At the end of the session, the 2026 bill regarding the regulation of the reform institution in Sharjah was referred to the Public Utilities Committee, along with another bill concerning the use of unmanned aerial vehicles. Al Maqreb confirmed that the next session will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026, to discuss the policy of the Department of Suburbs Affairs.

By unanimous consent, the Sharjah Advisory Council approved the Arts University regulation bill, reflecting the emirate’s commitment to enhancing education, which is a crucial pillar for the required future social and economic growth.