Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority announces Sharjah Light Festival 2015

Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) announced last night the fifth edition of Sharjah Light Festival 2015, the first event of its kind in the region, which will run from February 5 to 13. Taking place across 14 locations in Sharjah, the event coincides with the announcement of the Sharjah Arab Tourism Capital for 2015.

The announcement was made during a press conference organised by the Authority at the Al Majaz Waterfront in the presence of HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Director General, SCTDA and a number of heads and representatives of government departments and sponsors of the event as well as journalists.

The Sharjah Lights Festival offers a unique combination of light and music to create innovative three-dimensional designs using state-of-the-art techniques that consume minimal power. The captivating artwork created as part of the festival on major buildings highlight the historical heritage of Sharjah and its Islamic architecture. The event supports the tourism sector in Sharjah and enhances its status as a global tourist destination.

Addressing the press conference, Al Midfa pointed out that this year's festival will be a celebration of the announcement of Sharjah Arab Tourism Capital for 2015.

The Year 2015 is truly special for Sharjah and will be celebrated at many levels and in all its festivals and activities this year. We invite the world to visit Sharjah and discover its glorious heritage and charm. There is no better time to visit the emirate as it ushers in the Sharjah Light Festival once again, Al Midfa said.

For nine magical nights, from February 5 to 13, the spotlight will be on the emirate as it glows in all its resplendent glory, creating a beautiful and harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. The Sharjah Light Festival this year comes to you from 14 locations across the emirate, Al Midfa added.

He said the SCTDA had been striving to constantly improve its long-term strategy of growth, in order to invigorate Sharjahs tourism industry and showcase it before regional and global markets.

We couldnt have done this without the visionary leadership and guidance of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. We are committed to the vision of our leadership to strengthen the emirates position as a leading family tourism destination with world-class festivals, attractions and leisure opportunities, Al Midfa said.

Giving details about the festival, Al Midfa said several new locations have been added to the Sharjah Light Festival sites this year. These include Masjid Al Taqwa at Al Majaz Waterfront, Al Majaz Amphitheatre overlooking the Khalid Lagoon, the Cultural Square in Sharjah city, Masjid Al Muhajerin in Dibba Al Hisn, University of Sharjah campus in Khorfakkan, and Masjid Ammar bin Yasser in Dhaid.

Among the most popular and regular Light Festival attractions, Al Nour Mosque once again stands out with its dazzling beauty and intricate design. Al Qasba Internal and External Facades, University of Sharjah campus in Kalba, Central Souk and Al Majaz Waterfront (along with Masjid Al Taqwa) are other popular SLF sites.

Al Midfa said the Sharjah Light Festival 2015 also offers several new features and shows. The two new attractions to watch out this year are the Khalid Lagoon Corniche Light Design Show and Khalid Lagoon Giraffes Parade.

Al Midfa thanked all the partners and sponsors for their continuous support for the activities of the SCTDA, especially for the Sharjah Light Festival. I also thank the media for their cooperation in our efforts to present the true and bright picture of Sharjah before the world, the SCTDA Chairman added.

The Sharjah Light Festival succeeded over the past years to attract thousands of visitors and families, who flocked to attend the coolest presentations designed specifically for buildings and landmarks in Sharjah. SCTDA is marketing the festival at the regional level, through promotional campaigns organised across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). It is also promoting the event internationally through its participation in important tourism events.

The Sharjah Light Festival 2015 has attracted Sharjah Municipality, Sharjah Transport, Sharjah Police Headquarters, Shurooq, Zulal, Directorate of Public Works, Sharjah Civil Defence Department, and SEWA as co-sponsors. Nomada is the Partner of the event while Al Khaleej, Sharjah Media Corporation and Channel 4, 107.8 FM are the Media Sponsors.