Beyond Dubai's shadow, Sharjah shines light on Arab arts and culture

An Emirati man, wearing a protective mask due to the pandemic, visits Sharjah Art Museum. Photo: AFP

It doesn't have the malls of Dubai or the mega-projects of Abu Dhabi, but the conservative Gulf emirate of Sharjah has carved out a role for itself as a cultural capital.

The unassuming emirate, often overlooked by visitors in favour of its glitzier neighbours, is ruled by Sheikh Sultan bin Mohamed Al-Qasimi, known for his keen interest in art and history.