Sharjah Welcomes Springtime with ‘Evenings at the Flag Island’ Event

People in the UAE searching for a unique way of engaging their whole families in fun and creative locally-inspired cultural outings during spring break, look no further, as Flag Island – a premier tourist destination in Sharjah, and one the UAE’s most iconic national landmarks – is holding a series of exciting Emirati-themed activities, promotions and traditional markets, starting tonight (30 March) until 1 April.

‘Evenings at the Island’ is a first-of-its-kind concept, which will showcase local farmers, restaurants, food stations, handicraft stalls, a children’s section and much more in collaboration and organized by the participating entities. The three-day event aims to raise the profile of local businesses in the UAE, highlighting the support they are offered by government departments.

The events and activities will blend authentic Emirati traditions with the vision of 2017 UAE Year of Giving, declared in alignment with the directives of the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed AL Nahyan.

An elite host of Emirati authors and social media influencers, including, author Fatma Bader; social media influencers, Kanu Al Kendi and Hazza’ Al Ketbi will be seen at the festival. In addition to an informative first-aid workshop conducted by Khalifa Al Bloushi.

The event will feature a diverse array of performances and shows by a variety of bands, namely, the Dibba Al Haribiya Band, the Heritage Musical Band of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, and the Military Musical Band of the Sharjah Military Academy.

A packed entertainment schedule for the whole family will include storytelling sessions narrating tales inspired by life in the UAE. Poetry evenings and educational workshops for children will also be organised to evoke a communal spirit in them.  

The organisations and entities taking part in the ‘Evening at the Flag Island’ event will showcase their national initiatives and communal activities, through conducting a series of activities and interactive workshops. Key entities participating in the event include Knowledge without Borders (KwB), Lughati, FUNN Establishment – Sharjah Media Arts for Youth and Children, Sharjah Media Corporation (SMC), Sharjah Institute for Heritage, Sharjah Cultural and Chess Club, Sharjah Police Headquarters, Health Education Department and Ajman Business Women Council.

“As well as being a truly interesting and entertaining event for families, we want to make it as easy as possible for smaller businesses in the UAE to promote themselves. ‘Evening at the Flag Island’ aligns with our commitment to engage with and strongly support various national initiatives. We look forward to seeing citizens, residents, visitors and tourists experience our national heritage first hand, as well as support SMEs and other smaller businesses,” said Khulood Al Junaibi, Flag Island Manager.

The ‘Handmade in the UAE’ section, will showcase traditional Emirati design, art and fashion craftwork featuring unique and exclusive locally handmade products. A traditional souk will be set up, with vendors selling a more varied line-up of contemporary items.

In the kids’ section, traditional games, such as carom, are set up for guests to play. There is also an artisan craft making workshop, where locals will demonstrate how to create a range of beautifully designed products, showcasing key elements of traditional Emirati culture.