(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) A must-see for residents and visitors alike Sharjah has long been promoted as the cultural capital of the Arab world by Unesco way back in 1998. The emirate is the epitome of Arabian tradition and Islamic culture with its numerous restored heritage sites, mosques and old souqs.
In the past seven years, Sharjah has also highlighted the rich Emirati history, culture and heritage through its annual Sharjah Light Festival (SLF). A must-see for residents and visitors alike, this year's edition opened on February 2 and will run until February 11, covering 14 different locations spread across the emirate.
"Some of Sharjah's architectural landmarks, mosques, and historic buildings, were brought to life highlighting not just the glorious past and aesthetic qualities of Sharjah's architectural landscape but also its bright future," Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, chairman of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), told Khaleej Times.
"And each year a new element is added to the light festival," continued Al Midfa, who said that visitors should not miss the light show at Dr Sultan Al Qasimi Centre for Gulf Studies for its "interactive component."
"Aside from the light and sound spectacle, visitors can change the template and digital mapping by adding three elements into the show like mosaic or sand. They can also change the facade as well as control the music and background," Al Midfa added.
Visitors can also go into "time travel or get light inspirations for the future" when they visit Sharjah's University City Hall.
Where to watch University City Hall
Dr Sultan Al Qasimi Centre for Gulf Studies
Cultural Palace
Al Noor Mosque
Al Taqwa Mosque
Al Qasba
Palm Oasis
Parade on the Khalid Lagoon Corniche
Kalba University
Sharjah University
Khor Fakkan University
Dibba Mosque
Al Dhaid Mosque
Masjid Sheikh Rashid Bin Ahmad Al Qasimi in Dibba
Timings
Daily shows start from 6pm until 11pm on weekdays, and till midnight on weekends.
The 10-minute show is divided into two parts starting with a 'time travel' where visitors are taken into a magic ride over rolling sand dunes, rising sun, and flying pegasus - all of these are accompanied by classical Arabesque music. Then the viewers have to put on 3D glasses as the next part of the show titled 'light inspirations for the future' features dancing pillars and buildings zapped by virtual wormholes. Facades are turned into techno walls and the electro dance music add more vibe into the bright 3D lights.
For those who are looking for a 'romantic scene' - the 'light tunnel' at the Palm Oasis is the perfect place, where people can go under a canopy of lights. Khaleej Times caught up with Sharjah residents James, Anne and Kaye on Tuesday night and they said the place is 'Instagram-able,' best for taking pictures and posting on social media.
The Al Noor Mosque, the first mosque in Sharjha to open its doors to tourists, and the nearby Al Taqwa Mosque were also turned into 'colurful mosques,' signifying the cultural diversity and synergy in the UAE.
Aside from the light show, there is also a nightly (at 9pm) festival parade along the Khalid Lagoon Corniche. Artists and show masters conjure a parade called 'Three Elephants Pass By.'
Meanwhile, organisers said sustainability is also on the agenda of SLF. Al Midfa explained: "All the lights and projectors we are using have passed certification for environmental compliance . We also switch off the surrounding lights so the net result is we're able to save 50 to 60 per cent of the power in that area because all the other lights, which require more electricity than the projectors, are off."
Angel Tesorero
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