Sharjah’s Cultural Best Practices for Sustainable Tourism

Culture best practices in Sharjah

The theme of "culture" revolves around celebrating local heritage, promoting community engagement, and supporting local businesses and products in Sharjah. Sustainable tourism often emphasizes environmental and economic impacts, while social impacts tend to be overlooked. Social sustainability in tourism means that the cultural elements of a destination are protected and preserved, much like natural ecosystems, ensuring that the local community benefits from and is included in tourism.

Benefits can be secured by offering education and activities to communities, as well as strengthening the economy and creating jobs. Just as with environmental protection, cultural sites should not be overexploited, and care must be taken to safeguard heritage assets for future generations. The Heart of Sharjah and Mleiha sites, for example, exemplify how social and cultural sustainability can be effectively integrated into tourism projects. Chedi Al Bait

The following case studies show how culture can be further woven into tourism products and services in Sharjah in view of preserving its heritage while increasing community involvement and the uptake of sustainable practices.

Heart of Sharjah

The Heart of Sharjah is dedicated to preserving and promoting the heritage of Sharjah through restoration efforts, community engagement, and educational programs. As the largest heritage preservation project in the Gulf, it transforms traditional houses into museums, souqs, shops, restaurants, and galleries. This initiative not only attracts tourists but also enhances residents' understanding of Sharjah’s cultural history.

A key challenge for heritage sites is balancing the preservation of traditional architecture with the need to create engaging experiences for modern visitors. The Heart of Sharjah successfully navigates this by maintaining many architectural features and the Bedouin-style houses with central courtyards while modernizing interiors. This approach allows for contemporary art galleries to flourish within historical settings, encouraging visitors to explore the area more fully.

Community engagement is at the forefront of the Heart of Sharjah’s mission, with cultural events and festivals featuring art exhibitions, performances, and workshops that celebrate local traditions and crafts. Educational programs play a central role, offering workshops and lectures on Emirati culture, including music, dance, and storytelling. Collaborations with local schools and universities further integrate cultural education into curricula, ensuring the heritage is passed down to future generations.

Through its commitment to restoration, community initiatives, and educational outreach, the Heart of Sharjah inspires both locals and visitors to connect with the emirate's unique cultural identity while showcasing the significance of preserving heritage in a modern context.

Chedi Al Bait

Chedi Al Bait is a unique heritage hotel in Sharjah that successfully combines cultural preservation with hospitality. Situated in a carefully restored historical building, this hotel offers guests a chance to experience local heritage while enjoying contemporary comforts. Chedi Al Bait provides immersive experiences that educate visitors about Emirati culture and history. The hotel features exhibitions that showcase traditional crafts and the region's historical significance, enhancing guests' understanding of Sharjah’s rich heritage.

Community engagement is also central to Chedi Al Bait’s mission. The hotel regularly hosts cultural events and workshops that feature local artisans and performers, celebrating Emirati traditions and supporting local talent. These initiatives not only enrich the visitor experience but also provide economic opportunities for the community. Chedi Al Bait also collaborates with local schools to promote cultural awareness among students. Through guided tours and interactive programs, the hotel helps integrate Emirati heritage into education, ensuring that younger generations appreciate their cultural roots.

By emphasizing cultural preservation, Chedi Al Bait encourages both visitors and residents to connect with the emirate's traditions, demonstrating how cultural heritage can coexist with tourism.

Learn more about Sharjah’s cultural heritage activities and sites by using Sustain Sharjah AI.

Comments

Search our Results

Start Your Sustainability Journey Start Here

Best practices in Culture in Sharjah and the Middle East

Comments