Sharjah to celebrate maritime heritage at 12th Al Maleh and Fishing Festival
Four-day cultural event to highlight UAE’s maritime identity
DUBAI – Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) and Dibba Al Hisn Municipality are preparing to host the 12th edition of the Al Maleh and Fishing Festival, which will take place from 28 to 31 August 2025 on Al Hisn Island.
The annual festival is a landmark cultural event, reflecting Sharjah’s commitment to preserving maritime heritage while stimulating tourism and economic growth in the Eastern Region. At its heart, the event celebrates the Al Maleh (salted fish) industry, an ancient tradition that played a vital role in sustaining coastal communities for centuries.
By combining heritage, modern sustainability practices, and opportunities for entrepreneurship, the festival underscores Sharjah’s ambition to strengthen its position as a hub for heritage-driven economic activity.
Al Maleh and Fishing Festival
The Al Maleh and Fishing Festival features a rich programme that explores the UAE’s deep-rooted fishing traditions and maritime culture. Visitors will be able to participate in educational workshops on Al Maleh preparation, salting, canning, and traditional fishing tools.
Seminars on sustainable fishing practices are also planned, while cultural competitions aim to broaden public knowledge of seafaring history. Live demonstrations will showcase shipbuilding, net-making, and other crafts once central to coastal livelihoods.
Key attractions this year include the “Salted Fish Market,” a dedicated agricultural section, and a traditional food court serving heritage cuisine. In addition, exhibition spaces will display advanced fishing gear, engines, and boats, linking old practices with modern innovation.
How does it benefit?
Mohammad Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of SCCI, emphasised that the festival is integral to Sharjah’s economic strategy. By creating a platform for productive families and entrepreneurs, the event boosts access to markets, expands exposure for traditional products, and enables new business partnerships.
He explained that linking cultural heritage with economic sustainability is a cornerstone of Sharjah’s future economy, with the festival designed to empower small enterprises and encourage investment in marine-based industries.
Talib Abdullah Al Yahyai, Director of Dibba Al Hisn Municipality, underlined the pride of Dibba Al Hisn residents in hosting the festival, describing the city as a cradle of the UAE’s maritime heritage. He highlighted ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, expand the event’s programme, and strengthen Dibba Al Hisn’s status as a sustainable cultural and tourism destination.
The festival will run daily from 9am to 9pm across its four days. Visitors will be immersed in cultural displays, live performances, and interactive workshops that blend the old with the new.
Government departments, private sector companies, and retailers linked to the Al Maleh industry will take part, alongside productive families showcasing salted fish, heritage foods, and handcrafted artisanal tools. The event is set to draw residents and tourists alike, offering both a cultural journey into the past and a forward-looking celebration of Sharjah’s maritime economy.