The Emirate of Sharjah is preparing to welcome the 15th edition of the Sharjah Light Festival 2026, its flagship cultural event celebrating art, creativity and Emirati heritage through spectacular light displays.

Ahead of the official opening, the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has announced the early launch of Light Village, which opens on January 29 and runs until February 22, 2026. The main festival will officially begin on February 3, with light shows illuminating Sharjah’s landmarks until February 15, 2026.

25 Days of Family Experiences

A popular seasonal attraction under the Sharjah Light Festival umbrella, Light Village will run for 25 days this year, extending for the first time into the early days of Ramadan.

The village offers an immersive and family-friendly experience, featuring:

• International light artworks and illuminated installations
• A children’s play area
• Interactive activities for all ages
• Cultural and entertainment programmes

Supporting Culture, Tourism and the Local Economy

Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, said Light Village enhances the festival’s vision by transforming Sharjah into a vibrant cultural destination while supporting tourism, creativity and economic growth.

He noted that the initiative:

• Strengthens Sharjah’s position as a cultural and tourism hub
• Supports youth initiatives and national projects
• Empowers entrepreneurs and SMEs
• Stimulates economic and community activity linked to tourism and commerce

Over 75 Local Businesses Take Part

This year’s Light Village will feature participation from more than 75 national projects, including:

• Food and beverage outlets
• Retail concepts
• Creative and lifestyle ventures

The strong SME presence highlights the festival’s role as a platform for local entrepreneurship and innovation.

Exhibition by Japanese Artist

One of the standout attractions is the Light Experience Exhibition by renowned Japanese artist Yasuhiro Chida, showcasing interactive light artworks that blend art, technology and sustainability.

Designed for visitors of all ages, the immersive exhibition explores creativity, community interaction and environmental awareness. Tickets are available at the venue.

Locations and Dates

The official opening ceremony on February 3, 2026, marks the start of large-scale light projections across 13 iconic locations in Sharjah, including:

• Sharjah Mosque
• Al Majaz Waterfront
• House of Wisdom
• Sharjah Fort
• Khorfakkan Waterfall
• Aljada
• Kalba Waterfront
• Al Rafisah Dam
• Dhaid Fort
• Kalba Hanging Gardens

The light displays tell a visual story rooted in Sharjah’s history, tracing human presence back over 200,000 years to archaeological sites such as Mleiha and Jebel Faya.