Sharjah has once again demonstrated its unwavering dedication to the preservation of its cultural heritage. The Fili Heritage Project, which prioritises historical authenticity over modern spectacle, was officially launched in Sharjah’s Central Region. Rather than being designed as a photographic backdrop for passing tourists, the site is intended to be a living residence where history, community interactions, and ancestral traditions can naturally intersect.
On a Sunday morning in February 2026, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, conducted the official opening ceremony. This significant milestone is viewed as a confirmation of the emirate’s deliberate strategy to preserve Emirati heritage. Under the supervision of the Sharjah Initiatives Implementation Authority (Mubadara), the project is more than just a tourist attraction; it is also a significant effort to restore regional memory. This initiative aims to recall narratives, locations, and customs that shaped previous generations’ daily lives.
At the heart of this expansive project lies the Fili Fort, a historic structure that has been returned to its former glory through an exacting restoration process. Unlike contemporary reconstructions that often rely on modern substitutes, this site was treated with a rigorous adherence to traditional building techniques. Original materials, specifically local stone and burnt clay (mud brick), were utilized by the restoration team to ensure the fort was returned to its authentic state.
Through this meticulous approach, the architectural integrity of the fort has been preserved, allowing it to stand as a resilient monument for future generations. Within the fort, the strategic history of the region is showcased through specialized rooms dedicated to the aflaj (traditional irrigation systems), historical weaponry, and the production of date syrup. These displays serve as a testament to the fort’s dual role as both a defensive bastion and a vital economic hub for the caravans that once travelled between Al Dhaid and Oman.
Integrated into the project is a vibrant Heritage Market, which comprises 16 shops designed in the classical Emirati architectural style. These retail spaces were constructed to support local entrepreneurs and small enterprises, ensuring that the ancient tradition of community-based commerce is maintained. The market is not merely a place for transactions; it is a social venue where the artistic and cultural heritage of the region is reflected in the handicrafts, incense, and local goods offered to visitors.
By providing a platform for Emirati dealers, the project ensures that the economic pulse of the Central Region remains rooted in its history. This market serves as a bridge between the past and the present, where the values of the desert people are preserved through modern-day trade.
For families and younger visitors, a petting farm has been established across a significant area, providing a secure and educational environment for interaction with animals. In a world increasingly dominated by digital screens, this facility offers a practical and invigorating connection to the natural world. Children are encouraged to learn about the animals that were essential to rural life in the UAE, such as camels, goats, and sheep, within a sustainable heritage setting.
Furthermore, the history of one of the region’s most significant social staples is explored at the dedicated coffee house. The narrative of coffee — from its historical origins to its essential role in Emirati hospitality — is shared with guests. Traditional tools such as the dallah (coffee pot) and mihamas (roasting spoon) are displayed to illustrate the social importance of the coffee-making ritual.
Aside from its individual components, the Fili Heritage Project is anchored by a large open plaza designed to host community events and cultural activities. This plaza is expected to make the site a primary social hub for the Central Region. By combining education, tourism, and neighbourhood life into a single, thoughtfully designed destination, the project honours the Sharjah Ruler’s vision of prioritising human development alongside cultural growth.
As visitors travel the newly developed roads connecting the site to the rest of the emirate, they are invited to experience a place where history is not just remembered but lived. The Fili Heritage Project is a silent, solemn tribute to Sharjah’s origins, ensuring that everyone can experience the essence of Emirati life.
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