Fujairah International Monodrama Festival Kicks Off
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, underscored the Emirate of Fujairah’s prominent position in the cultural and artistic landscape, and its vital role in supporting theatre—particularly the art of monodrama.
Sheikh Mohammed made the remarks during the opening ceremony of the Fujairah International Monodrama Festival, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Fujairah, at the Fujairah Creative Centre Theatre.
The opening ceremony was attended by Dr. Rashid bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Head of the Fujairah Culture and Media Authority, Sheikh Maktoum bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Sara Al Amiri, Minister of Education, Ahmed Hanno, Egypt’s Minister of Culture and the Festival’s Guest of Honour, and Mohammed Saeed Al Dhanhani, Director of the Fujairah Emiri Court and Chairman of the Festival’s Higher Organising Committee.
Sheikh Mohammed Al Sharqi reaffirmed Fujairah ’s commitment to supporting artistic initiatives that strengthen its presence on both the Arab and international stage, through a spirit of cultural openness to diverse creative experiences and the promotion of shared human values among peoples around the world.
Fujairah’s Crown Prince also underscored the significance of the Fujairah International Monodrama Festival since its inception, in drawing playwrights and artists from around the world. He noted that the festival showcases some of the most important and compelling monodrama performances, which address universal humanitarian and social themes that resonate with individuals everywhere. He emphasised that the festival plays a vital role in broadening the horizons of intercultural dialogue between diverse cultures and contributes to advancing the values of coexistence, mutual understanding and openness to others.
In his keynote address at the opening ceremony, Mohammed Saeed Al Dhanhani said:“His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah, envisioned this festival as an oasis that fosters unity, deepens dialogue, and strengthens the spirit of love and solidarity among all. Over the years, it has grown into a distinguished cultural and artistic forum that embraces nationalities from around the world. Guided by this vision, Fujairah continues to play a vital role in enriching and advancing the UAE’s broader cultural and enlightenment project.”
Al Dhanhani added:“With the support and direct guidance of H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah and patron of the emirate’s cultural movement, the Festival’s Higher Organising Committee was committed to delivering a more dynamic and culturally expansive edition. This year’s edition fulfills the festival’s core mission and vision by offering a unique artistic experience that ensures its sustainability and broadens its appeal across Arab and international audiences. By presenting monodrama in a way that resonates with people, reflects their realities, and expands their perspectives, Fujairah reaffirms its pioneering role in this rich and enduring theatrical art.”
Tobias Bianconi, Director General of the International Theatre Institute, said: “The Emirate of Fujairah is making steady strides towards establishing itself as a distinctive global hub for the arts and arts education. Through its continuous efforts to attract cultural, artistic, and theatrical talents from around the world—and by creating opportunities to acquire and develop artistic skills—Fujairah is undoubtedly on the path to becoming a prominent international centre for creativity and artistic learning.”
The Crown Prince of Fujairah honoured the festival’s sponsors and supporting partners, in recognition of their vital role in the success of the event.
The opening ceremony featured a musical theatrical production titled “From Fujairah to Sunrise”, which presented a vibrant blend of artistic, theatrical, and musical performances celebrating Fujairah’s rich cultural heritage and creative legacy.
The event was attended by Dr. Ahmed Hamdan Al Zeyoudi, Director of the Office of His Highness the Crown Prince of Fujairah, along with a wide gathering of theatre professionals, artists and cultural enthusiasts from within the UAE and abroad.
