NEW LIGHT DISPLAYS TO ENHANCE THE FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE
From February 5 through February 23, an array of landmarks in Sharjah will be brought to life with captivating light exhibits as the Sharjah Light Festival returns to mark its 14th edition. This year, four additional locations have been incorporated throughout the emirate, with the preparation for this magnificent event taking nearly a year.
SUPPORTING LOCAL ENTERPRISES DURING THE FESTIVAL
With impressive attendance numbers each year, the festival not only enchants visitors but also serves as an essential platform for small businesses operating in 12 different locations. A senior official highlighted to Khaleej Times that the event gives them enhanced visibility and essential backing for their endeavors. Last year, the festival drew over 100,000 attendees, furthering its critical role in promoting local businesses and showcasing the cultural and architectural magnificence of the city.
LIGHT VILLAGE OPERATING HOURS AND ACTIVITIES
The Light Village, located opposite University City Hall, opens daily at 5 PM and remains operational until midnight from Sunday to Wednesday, extending its hours to 1 AM on weekends. With a variety of exhibits scattered across Sharjah, the festival presents mesmerizing light displays and installations that celebrate the distinct characteristics of each site. Khalid Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, told Khaleej Times that the Light Village represents a crucial element of the festival, as it aids small and medium-sized enterprises by providing them with increased visibility during these festivities. “Sales are important, but entrepreneurs who have a vision and want to grow in the future see the power of participating in such platforms like the Light Village, not only due to the sales but due to the exposure.”
ADMISSION POLICY CHANGE TO IMPROVE RETURNS FOR BUSINESSES
Last year’s Sharjah Light Festival welcomed over 100,000 paying patrons. Al Midfa noted that the decision to charge for entry to the Light Village was made after observing that the previous system, which allowed free entry two years prior, did not yield significant returns for small businesses. “We gave a space for people who wanted to eat or drink or pay for an experience to visit the light village, so that was a better mix for us,” he remarked, adding that this year, approximately 60 small and medium-sized enterprises were selected from 300 submissions.
BOOSTING TOURISM AND CULTURAL PROMOTION
The festival offers local businesses the opportunity to gain momentum and thrive while aligning with the UAE’s broader tourism objectives of elevating the country to a premier global travel destination. Al Midfa emphasized that the substantial visibility given to the Sharjah Light Festival provides an outstanding opportunity to promote the emirate as the cultural hub of the Arab world. He stated, “We are very happy with the diversity of events we have and how strong of an effect it has on the reputation of Sharjah and its perception.”
Hind Aldah covers business, tech, crypto, and other trending topics for a youthful audience. In her downtime, she enjoys playing classical guitar, creating amateur oil paintings, or crocheting a never-ending scarf.