Illuminating 12 major sites of the region, the Light Festival in Sharjah is a crowd-puller event celebrated every year at Light Village. The festival is hosted by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority and brims with a dazzle of lights combined with international music and colours. Drawing locals and tourists alike to immerse themselves in an incredible experience and witness the glorious culture and heritage of the region, the Sharjah Light Festival is a must-visit festival during your trip here. In this guide, we are going to explore all the major details regarding this festival that hold a special significance in the hearts of locals, as well as tourists.
History Of Light Festival In Sharjah
Commenced in the year 2011 as the occasion of the collaboration of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority with several cultural organisations and government departments, the light festival in Sharjah is one of the crowd-puller events of the world. Flaunting the rich culture, architectural gems, and artistic talent through a majestic light show, this light festival has a special place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike, as well as in the history of the region. Along with providing an incredible experience to visitors, the festival has been a great success in encouraging community engagement, tourism and cultural empowerment. Showcasing the fusion of Sharjah’s architectural heritage and the innovative power of light, the festival has now become an anticipated event which is awaited by curious minds from all over the world.
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Highlights Of Light Festival In Sharjah
Immerse yourself in the essence of Sharjah’s rich heritage which includes ancient structures, iconic landmarks and various architectural gems. Here are some of the major attractions where you can witness the charming aura of light festival in Sharjah:
1. The Light Village
Flaunting the sparking vistas during the light show in Sharjah, the Light Village is nestled just opposite the University City Hall and is packed with a new light museum, food outlets, and entertainment spaces. All the areas are embellished with dazzling lights and illuminate the region’s major attractions. Embracing the rich culture and heritage of Sharjah and offering a glimpse of the accomplishments of the region, the Light Village is the perfect place to start your Light Festival tour.
Dates: 8th February to 19th February
Timings: Sunday to Wednesday 4.00 PM to 11.00 PM and Thursday to Saturday – 4.00 PM to 12.00 AM
2. Al Dhaid Fort
Image Credit: Akbarali for Wikimedia Commons
Located at Al Dhaid Road, this time the iconic Al Dhaid Fort will showcase the theme of ‘Hope Springs a New’ and honour all the enterprising travellers of the past who had worked hard to manage and thrive even in the unfavourable and difficult times. The show focuses on bringing people together and observing how one is making every inch of the land worthwhile through innovative solutions.
Dates: 8th February to 19th February
Timings: Sunday to Wednesday 4.00 PM to 11.00 PM and Thursday to Saturday – 4.00 PM to 12.00 AM
Theme: Hope Springs A New
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3. Al Noor Mosque
Image Credit: Manikanta1973 for Wikimedia Commons
Dedicated to Islamic design motifs and elements, Al Noor Mosque is a significant place famous for its lush gardens and art installations. Embracing a wonderful light show, the place creates a glorious backdrop for all the visitors by offering an awestruck view. You can witness an amazing vistas of illuminated gardens, butterfly houses and dazzling mosque structures during the Light Festival in Sharjah.
Dates: 8th February to 19th February
Timings: Sunday to Wednesday 4.00 PM to 11.00 PM and Thursday to Saturday – 4.00 PM to 12.00 AM
4. Khalid Lagoon Corniche
Embark on a majestic Art Walk where you can admire the beautifully crafted paintings by children of different schools in the region. The paintings will be exhibited through 80 projections and showcase the talent and art skills of young artists of Sharjah. As you stroll down the corniche, you will witness the outstanding artwork that will make you amused and voyage.
Dates: 8th February to 19th February
Timings: Sunday to Wednesday 4.00 PM to 11.00 PM and Thursday to Saturday – 4.00 PM to 12.00 AM
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5. Al Rafisah Dam
Emphasising the story of solo travellers, Al Rafisah Dam is known as one of the major attractions to visit during the light festival in Sharjah. Immerse yourself in a captivating tale of a man who makes a great discovery that will last decades and both humans and animals can benefit from this. You can reach this destination by taking the Khorfakkan Ring Road and following the signs mentioned on the way.
Dates: 8th February to 19th February
Timings: Sunday to Wednesday 4.00 PM to 11.00 PM and Thursday to Saturday – 4.00 PM to 12.00 AM
6. Kalba Clock Tower
Image Credit: Own work for Wikimedia Commons
Nestled at the main roundabouts on Al Wahda Street in Kalba, the clock tower will celebrate the theme of blue hour during this upcoming light festival in Sharjah. The blue hour refers to the time when the sun is about to rise or set and the sky is flourishing in its most vibrant blue colour. This audiovisual story that embraces the most beautiful phenomena of nature, will surely add an extra dose of charm to your visit.
Dates: 8th February to 19th February
Timings: Sunday to Wednesday 4.00 PM to 11.00 PM and Thursday to Saturday – 4.00 PM to 12.00 AM
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7. Al Hamriyah Municipality
Situated along Al Ittihad Road, Al Hamriyah Municipality which will encourage the theme of ‘Growing together, in harmony, hope and peace’ during this light festival in Sharjah. Offering you peace of mind, safety and several travel options, the place flaunts its spectacular architecture that reveals a story of rebirth, aspiration, peace, and hope. It embellishes the building’s structural columns with visually arresting colour bursts, geometric flowers, and futuristic forms.
Dates: 8th February to 19th February
Timings: Sunday to Wednesday 4.00 PM to 11.00 PM and Thursday to Saturday – 4.00 PM to 12.00 AM
8. Al Majaz Waterfront
Get amused with the echoes of Dawn at Al Majaz Waterfront, one of the major attractions to visit during the light festival in Sharjah. Adorned with more than 150 LED light panels that display intricate Islamic geometric patterns, and a symphony of sounds occurring from the harmonisation of panels, the light and sound show at Al Majaz Waterfront leaves the visitors spellbinding. Flaunting the accomplishments of the region, as well as honouring the people and places, the light show of this amazing place is worth spending your precious time on and capturing the essence of Sharjah’s rich heritage.
Dates: 8th February to 19th February
Timings: Sunday to Wednesday 4.00 PM to 11.00 PM and Thursday to Saturday – 4.00 PM to 12.00 AM
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9. University City Hall
Illuminated with dazzling lights, you can witness a great example of art that showcases the lifespan of a young girl from her childhood to a time when she becomes an inspiration for others. The lights are beautifully adorned to provide a captivating story emphasizing the value of dreams and hopes that one should carry with them. The sparkling look of the lights and the heartfelt story of a girl will surely keep you engaged and overwhelmed at University City Hall.
Dates: 8th February to 19th February
Timings: Sunday to Wednesday 4.00 PM to 11.00 PM and Thursday to Saturday – 4.00 PM to 12.00 AM
10. Masjid Sheikh Rashid Bin Ahmed Al Qasimi
Image Credit: Wikiemirati for Wikimedia Commons
Perched in Dibba Al Hisn city, Masjid Sheikh Rashid Bin Ahmed Al Qasimi is a blissful place which you must visit during the light festival in Sharjah. Admire its glorious look embellished with floral mosaics stealing the attention and heart of its visitors. At the light show, you can witness its marvellous architecture that exhibits adorned ornaments and geometric Islamic patterns.
Dates: 8th February to 19th February
Timings: Sunday to Wednesday 4.00 PM to 11.00 PM and Thursday to Saturday – 4.00 PM to 12.00 AM
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11. Beeah Headquarters
Image Credit: Own work for Wikimedia Commons
Designed by the late renowned architect Zaha Hadid, Beeah is a place where you can spend quality time in the lap of nature and enjoy mesmerising surroundings. Witness the spectacular vistas herds of oryxes, roaring ocean waves, chirping of birds, and abundant fishes at this amazing environmental-friendly place. The theme of the light show at this incredible place also reflects the focus on sustainability and waste management which will be an awe-inspiring sight for visitors.
Dates: 8th February to 19th February
Timings: Sunday to Wednesday 4.00 PM to 11.00 PM and Thursday to Saturday – 4.00 PM to 12.00 AM
Tips To Make Your Sharjah Light Festival Visit Incredible
- The dazzling light festival in Sharjah is usually held in February each year, still, check the official website and current news to know about the exact dates or any changes in the schedule of events.
- During this majestic Sharjah Light Festival, the entire region is embellished with a variety of light installations that will leave you awe-struck. Therefore, it is suggested to try to witness and explore as many locations as possible.
- Along with admiring the jaw-dropping dazzle of the light show in Sharjah, don’t miss out on attending special workshops, exhibitions, and live music shows that will make your visit mesmerising.
- It can be a little chilly weather during February, hence, dress accordingly. It is advised to wear comfy shoes to enjoy this sparkling walkshow without any inconvenience.
- To capture the essence of this spectacular light show in Sharjah and create countless memories, don’t forget to bring your camera with huge storage.
- To enjoy a wonderful light show in Sharjah without any traffic interruption, it is advised to use public transportation or rent a car.
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Hold the dignity of being the third largest city of the UAE, Sharjah is a wonderful city that brims with historical sites, museums and traditional souks. In the month of February, this glorious city captures the attention of people from all over the world with the dazzling Light Festival In Sharjah. On you next trip to the UAE , witness the sparkling charm of Sharjah and let yourself immerse into its rich culture and heritage.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Light Festival In Sharjah
What is the light exhibition in Sharjah?
The Light Festival is a remarkable festival which is celebrated every year in Sharjah and is the biggest crowd-puller event. During the festival, dazzling lights are installed highlighting the major landmarks of the city, as well as featuring majestic images and animations on the exterior of iconic buildings.
Where can I watch the Sharjah Light Festival?
You can witness the spellbinding vibe of the Sharjah Light Festival at various locations in the city and territories. Some of the famous places are as follows: Sharjah Mosque Al Dhaid Fort Al Majaz Waterfront Masjid Sheikh Rashid Bin Ahmed Al Qasimi University City Hall Kalba Clock Tower
Is the Light Festival In Sharjah free?
Yes, all the sound and light shows are free to enjoy and indulge in the rich heritage and culture of Sharjah. Every place represents a special theme and makes visitors amused and mesmerized with their incredible look.
How long is the Sharjah Light Festival?
Celebrating and honouring the history, art and culture of Sharjah, the light show of the region is a wonderful event which is attracting people from far and wide to immerse in this incredible experience. The festival is usually celebrated for 12 days.
Why is Sharjah famous?
Heralded as the cultural capital of the UAE, Sharjah is a vibrant city packed with well-preserved ancient structures and ruins that capture the attention of curious minds and history buffs alike. Flaunting its ancient charm and rich heritage, the city is an amazing place to visit and immerse in the past tales of the region.
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