Sharjah Calligraphy Museum : Home to Arabic Heritage

The Islamic world is renowned for its archetypal heritage of calligraphy. This art form has embraced the paintings, carpets, coins, walls, and decorative items throughout the MENA region for centuries. The Arabic alphabet, also known as khatt, beautifully describes the inherent value of calligraphy. Located in the heart of the cultural capital, Sharjah Calligraphy Museum pays homage to this age-old tradition. 

In this blog, we will take you on a virtual journey of the Museum and the intricate artwork that embellishes the space. 

The Essence of Sharjah Calligraphy Museum

Established in 2002, the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum has been transformed into an epicentre of Arabic calligraphy. The museum is located in the house of Hamad Al Midfa, Sharjah Heritage Area. The Calligraphy Museum takes you on an intellectual journey through the development of Arabic calligraphy over the years. The place is a haven for those who seek the pleasures of creative imagination and splendour. Calligraphic shapes, texts, and letters will blow your mind away as depicted through the portraits. 

Inside the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum

The heart of the museum is adorned with stunning masterpieces and state-of-the-art paintings by renowned and local artists. Both national and international artists have their artwork displayed in the museum. The artwork is far more than an instrument of fascination and carries a deep meaning behind them. These paintings depict the golden historical background of Arabic culture and the calligraphic brilliance will ensure that you have a meaningful experience at the museum.

Works engraved on ceramics, canvas, paper and wood that have been created by both local and international calligraphers beautifully define the complex beauty of this art. They also lay down the historical foundations of Arabic culture.  

Endeavours at Museum

The Sharjah Calligraphy Museum also hosts a number of changing exhibitions to instil the importance of Arabic calligraphy in both visitors and tourists alike. The Sharjah Department of Culture and Information (SDCI) hosts the Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial at this venue. These exhibitions are a way to preserve the local heritage so that it does not get lost in the ever-urbanising world. It’s a way of introducing the visitors to the world of Arabic calligraphy and their marvellous artworks to create new benchmarks of creative expression. 

The museum also puts in efforts to organise various conferences and workshops. The calligraphers use the adjacent building as a studio to prepare their artwork. 

• Sharjah Calligraphy Museum Location

The Museum is located in the Al Shioukh region of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. 

• Museum Timings

The Calligraphy Museum timings are listed below:

Saturday to Thursday : 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Friday : 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

• Museum Ticket Price

  • Children (below 2 years): Free
  • Children (2-12years): 5 AED
  • Adults (13+ years): 10 AED

Entry Fees for Tourist Groups :

• • Children tourist group (under 2 years): Free
  • Children tourist group (2-12 years): 3 AED each
  • Adult tourist group (13+ years): 7 AED each

Schools Entry Fees :

• • The entry fee is free for Government and private school trips. 

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