Annual events in Sharjah you need to check out in 2026
Sharjah is known as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World, an honour it rightly deserves for constantly striving to promote budding artists and local talent. Hence, it’s not surprising that annual events in Sharjah focus on promoting all forms of arts and the country’s rich cultural heritage. Today, the emirate is renowned for its leading role as a patron of fine arts and true cultural values. Thousands attend these annual events in Sharjah, which provide a welcome break from their daily routine.
Upcoming Annual Events in Sharjah 2026
Dates for many of these annual events in Sharjah are announced well in advance. Here, we present a list of the top annual events in Sharjah so you can mark your calendars and plan your visit accordingly.
Sharjah Arabic Poetry Festival
The Sharjah Arabic Poetry Festival is an exciting annual celebration of the vibrant art of poetry! This incredible event brings together over 70 talented poets from the UAE, the Arab world and various African countries to share their captivating work and engage in meaningful discussions about Arab history and social values. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with esteemed intellectuals, enjoy book signings, participate in a symposium, watch captivating documentaries and celebrate outstanding achievements at the award ceremony. Join this inspiring celebration of creativity and culture!
For poetry enthusiasts, this is the best event in Sharjah.
- Dates: 5th January, 2026
- Venue: Sharjah Cultural Palace
Sharjah Light Festival
Sharjah Light Festival is one of the most popular annual events in Sharjah. Organised by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority under the patronage of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, the idea of the event is to promote the rich history of the emirate.
Landmarks, architectural achievements and the history of Sharjah are demonstrated through a series of spectacular light and sound shows.
Different events will be held across the emirate and beyond.
- Dates: To be announced
Sharjah Biennial
The Sharjah Biennial is an extraordinary annual art celebration in the emirate that captivates art lovers everywhere! It offers a vibrant platform for fostering global conversations through innovative exhibitions, showcasing the incredible talents of local, regional and international artists across all art forms.
- Dates and venues: To be announced
Sharjah Art Foundation’s March Meeting
Sharjah Art Foundation’s March Meeting brings artists, curators and other art practitioners together to perform and discuss contemporary art changes. The role of art in society is discussed at length and the event provides a unique insight and is a great opportunity to learn about global art. This year, the programme includes critical conversations, performances, live poetry readings, workshops and communal meals.
- Dates and venue: To be announced
Ramadan Nights
Celebrate the month of Ramadan at the Expo Centre Sharjah with this amazing shopping festival. For three weeks during the holy month, you can buy top brands at amazing discounts, eat appetising food and engage in fun activities.
Every family member is guaranteed to have a great time at Sharjah Ramadan Nights 2026, one of the most anticipated annual festivals in Sharjah. Food stalls, trucks and unique pop-up restaurants will offer the finest local and international cuisine.
Foodies can enjoy traditional Emirati delicacies alongside specialities from the Philippines, China, India and around the world. Those looking for retail therapy can find the best local and international brands and designers. The gaming arena offers many fun activities for people of all ages and interests.
- Date: Expected late February to late March 2026
- Venue: Sharjah Expo Centre
Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival
This festival is one of the largest children’s events in the region. Year after year, this festival has been one of the most attended Sharjah events, with guests from across the world to conduct activities and workshops. Visitors can also select from a series of film screenings and theatre shows.
- Dates: 22nd April to 3rd May 2026
- Venue: Sharjah Expo Centre
Sharjah School Theatre Festival
In this event, school-going children get the chance to learn about the region’s cultural heritage in a fun and engaging manner at an early age. They can experiment and learn about acting, directing and writing. With performing arts, they can express themselves and gain confidence along the way. Each child is given the luxury to explore different avenues and select the one they prefer. Throughout this festival, children can identify and follow their passions.
- Dates and venues: To be announced
Souq Al Jubail Dates Festival
One of the most popular festivals for 2026 is the Sharjah Dates Festival. So, if you’re interested in getting your hands on the most delicious dates in town, this event is a must-visit.
- Dates: To be announced
- Venue: Souq Al Jubail
Sharjah Desert Theatre Festival
Organised by the Sharjah Department of Culture and Information, this festival interprets local culture as theatre. Through social, folk and technical features, performers celebrate Arab culture. Viewers get to experience legends from famous storytellers and the colour of artists. The overall focus is on storytelling, poetry and performance.
- Dates and Venue: To be announced
Sharjah Heritage Days
This annual event is supervised by the Directorate of Heritage, Department of Culture and Information. It helps the current generation become familiar with their forefathers’ achievements. Visitors are introduced to the customs, traditions and professions of yesteryear Emiratis. It is a fascinating experience for both residents and tourists.
- Dates and Venue: To be announced
Sharjah Islamic Arts Festival
Organised by the Sharjah Department of Culture and Information, the Sharjah Islamic Arts Festival began in 1998. The festival displays different vibrant Islamic art styles each year by carefully selecting art projects. Various exhibitions and workshops will be organised, during which patrons can appreciate Islamic art by 108 artists from 31 different countries.
- Dates: Until 31st January 2026
- Venue: Sharjah Art Museum
Sharjah International Book Fair
Get ready for the thrilling 45th edition of SIBF in 2026! With over 400 literary events featuring renowned authors, it’s a delightful celebration for all book lovers in the region!
- Dates: & Venue: To be announced
FAQS
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Wish to enjoy the serene beaches in the emirate? Here’s our list of the most popular beaches in Sharjah.
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Check out our list of the most visited malls in Sharjah where you can go for shopping, a fancy dinner and plenty of leisure activities.
This wraps up our Sharjah upcoming events 2026. While the list isn’t extensive, these events offer something exceptional. In fact, you are unlikely to find these types of festivals anywhere, even in this region.
You can also check out the cultural events in Dubai scheduled for this year, which offer a unique insight into the region’s rich culture.
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