Sharjah Museums Offer Free Entry for Museum Day
Celebrate culture, unity, and heritage with free museum access and interactive events across Sharjah.
- Publish date: Friday، 15 May 2026 Reading time: two min read
The Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) is set to transform the emirate’s cultural landscape with a four-day extravaganza marking International Museum Day, themed “Museums Uniting a Divided World.” From May 15 to 18, residents and visitors can enjoy free entry to all SMA museums across Sharjah City, Khor Fakkan, and Kalba, alongside a vibrant lineup of workshops, performances, exhibitions, and community-driven activities.
A Global Theme with Local Impact
Under the patronage of Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the initiative underscores the emirate’s commitment to museums as hubs for education, cultural preservation, and community engagement. The programme aims to foster inclusivity, offering activities in multiple languages and tailored for diverse audiences, including people with disabilities.
SMA emphasized that the celebrations align with its mission to make museums spaces for learning, dialogue, and creativity, ensuring younger generations remain connected to their heritage.
Highlights of the Four-Day Programme
📍 May 15: Sharjah Fort – A Journey Through Time
The festivities kick off at Sharjah Fort, where visitors can enjoy:
- Guided tours exploring the fort’s history.
- Workshops titled “Cultural Bridges at Sharjah Fort.”
- Live musical performances in a family-friendly setting.
📍 May 16: Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization – Weaving Stories
This day focuses on dialogue and humanity, featuring:
- Museum tours showcasing Islamic heritage.
- The “Weaving Civilisations” workshop.
- A panel discussion, “Museums: Bridges of Dialogue and Humanity,” bringing together organizations like The Big Heart Foundation, Friends of Cancer Patients, and Al Serkal Avenue to discuss museums’ role in cultural understanding and humanitarian efforts.
- A café operated by people with disabilities, promoting inclusion.
📍 May 17: Sharjah Maritime Museum – Unity Through Heritage
Dedicated to youth and people with disabilities, the day includes:
- Guided tours on maritime history.
- The “Seas Unite Us” workshop.
- Sign-language tours and a mobile photography workshop for creative documentation.
- Youth-led initiatives by graduates of the Sharjah Museums Ambassadors Programme.
📍 May 16–18: “Between the Lines” Exhibition
A collaborative exhibition at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, in partnership with Art for All Centre – Falaj, will feature works by 23+ artists, including those with disabilities. The exhibition explores untold human stories through visual art, challenging stereotypes and celebrating resilience and inclusion.
Sharjah Museums Passport: Win Prizes While Exploring!
To encourage deeper engagement, SMA has launched the “Sharjah Museums Passport” campaign. Visitors who explore five or more museums, collect stamps, and share their experiences on social media stand a chance to win exciting prizes. The campaign runs until May 31, 2026.
Why This Matters
For over a decade, Sharjah has been a UNESCO Cultural Hub, and its museums play a pivotal role in preserving heritage and fostering unity. By offering free access and interactive experiences, the authority invites everyone to explore, learn, and connect—reinforcing the belief that culture is a bridge to understanding.