Sharjah Institute for Heritage Concludes World Tea Day Celebrations Highlighting Global Cultural Connections
Sharjah, The Gulf Observer: Sharjah Institute for Heritage has concluded its World Tea Day celebrations with a four-day cultural programme titled “Tea: A Heritage that Brings the World Together”, held as part of the Sharjah World Cultural Heritage Weeks. The event took place from 18 to 21 May at the institute’s main atrium and attracted strong public participation, offering an immersive exploration of tea as a shared cultural heritage across societies.
The programme highlighted tea’s deep-rooted presence in the social customs and collective memory of communities worldwide, positioning it as a symbol of cultural exchange and human connection. The initiative featured international participation from Bahrain, China, India, and Morocco, along with contributions from other countries.
According to Aisha Ghabesh, Director of Events and Activities at the institute, the programme included panel discussions and exhibitions that showcased diverse global tea traditions. Visitors were able to observe variations in preparation methods, serving rituals, and the cultural meanings attached to tea in different societies.
A key panel discussion titled “Tea: A Heritage that Brings the World Together” brought together researchers and heritage specialists from Bahrain, Iraq, China, and the United Arab Emirates. The session explored tea’s cultural and social significance, particularly its role in oral traditions and majlis culture as a space for dialogue and community bonding.
Over the four-day programme, the institute also hosted educational workshops covering the history of tea, preparation techniques, and traditional practices across different cultures. Cultural performances by various Arab communities in the UAE further enriched the event’s celebratory atmosphere.
Ghabesh noted a strong and consistent public turnout, reflecting growing interest in cultural initiatives that promote shared heritage and intercultural dialogue. She emphasized that such programmes align with the institute’s commitment to delivering high-quality cultural experiences that bridge local authenticity with global traditions.
The initiative reinforces Sharjah’s position as a leading platform for cultural exchange and knowledge-sharing, fostering greater understanding between societies through heritage-focused events.
