Sharjahs Ruler Turns A Historic Market Into A Living Craft Village

Sharjah's ruler has ordered a major revival of a historic market on the UAE's east coast. His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi directed the Sharjah Institute for Heritage to restore and expand Souq Sharq in Khorfakkan. The project will transform the old market into a new cultural site called Craftsmen's Houses.

A New Home For Traditional Craftsmen

The redeveloped market will give local artisans a dedicated space to work. Planners want the site to host workshops and live demonstrations. Visitors will watch craftsmen create traditional Emirati handiwork in real time. This setup lets guests learn directly from skilled artisans, not just view finished pieces.

Officials say the project protects Emirati heritage while supporting working craftsmen. The market aims to help artisans earn a living from their trade. It will also help pass traditional skills down to younger generations. Organizers want these crafts to stay alive as everyday practice, not museum relics.

Strengthening Khorfakkan's Coastal Identity

Souq Sharq sits close to Khorfakkan Beach along the city's waterfront. The new heritage hub should boost the area's appeal to tourists. Khorfakkan continues building its identity as a cultural alternative to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Its quieter coastline offers visitors a different side of the UAE.

This project fits into Sharjah's larger heritage strategy. The emirate consistently works to weave culture into daily community life. Sharjah has earned major recognitions for this approach in the past. Titles like UNESCO World Book Capital and Islamic Culture Capital reflect that effort.

Part Of A Bigger Vision For Khorfakkan

Craftsmen's Houses follows other recent announcements about Khorfakkan's future. Sheikh Dr. Sultan has spoken about expanding the city's development potential. Plans include a protected coastal reserve along Al Qalqali Beach. Local infrastructure investment is also continuing across the city.

The Ruler has stressed protecting Khorfakkan's black mountain scenery during this growth. Officials want new development to work alongside environmental conservation. Balancing tourism, community services, and nature remains central to this vision.

What Happens Next

No official completion date exists yet for the Souq Sharq project. The Sharjah Institute for Heritage will oversee the full restoration and expansion. This effort reflects Sharjah's ongoing push to combine heritage preservation with modern tourism. Updates are expected as the project moves forward.