Sea is our life to be theme of Sir Bu Nair Festival

Sharjah - The festival will begin with the inauguration of the marine research centre followed by a tour of the accompanying exhibition.

The 19th annual Sir Bu Nair Festival will take place from May 10 -12 at the Sir Bu Nair Nature Reserve. 
The announcement was made during a Press conference held by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the presence of Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, chairman of the Sharjah Media Council and chairman of the higher committee of Sir Bu Nair Festival, and Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, EPAA chairperson, as well as representatives from supporting institutions.
This year's theme, 'Sea Is Our Life', will include many lively activities, events and programmes that are full of educational awareness, knowledge and entertainment, targeting all groups of the society.
Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed said: "Sir Bu Nair has a historically and economically unique position in the UAE maritime history. This festival reflects Sharjah's approach and its principles in protecting nature and promoting environmental awareness towards sustainable development and complements its programmes to conserve the environmental reservoirs, in accordance with the directives of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah."
Al Suwaidi said: "Sharjah has always been a pioneer in celebrating its heritage, while protecting its environment and natural resources. The reserve is an inherited treasure that bridges the glorious past with the present. Guaranteeing its future for coming generations is paramount." 
The festival will begin with the inauguration of the marine research centre followed by a tour of the accompanying exhibition. Artisans will demonstrate marine heritage skills, such as clam opening, salt making, fishing nets making and rope making.
In addition, folklore shows and heritage competitions, in cooperation with Emirates Marine Environmental Group (EMEG) and the Sharjah Police, will also be added attractions.
The island of Sir Bu Nair encompasses a total area of 13sqkm and is located 110km to the north of Sharjah. Sea salt is extracted on the island, which includes a visible water well, as well as oil. Known for its sandy beaches, clear water and rich coral and fish life, Sir Bu Nair Island has been designated as a protected area. The island is of international importance and has been listed in Ramsar Convention on wetlands, in order to preserve its ecological components. It was also included in the Unesco World Heritage List and accepted into the memorandum of understanding on the conservation and management of marine turtles and their habitats in the Indian Ocean and South-East Asia.
Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, chairman of the Sharjah Media Council, chairman of the higher committee of Sir Bu Nair Festival, said the name of the island was chosen by the Ruler of Sharjah. "Sir means the edges of the mountain and the Bu Nair is a name of one of Al Qasimi sheikhs, who lived in the area in the olden days."
afkarali@khaleejtimes.com
 

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