The Maldives has been invited to participate as the guest of honour at the 25th edition of the Sharjah International Narrator Forum, a prominent cultural event hosted annually by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The announcement was made following a meeting between Maldivian Ambassador to the UAE, Mohamed Hussain Shareef, and the Chairman of the Institute, Dr Abdulaziz Al-Musallam. The two officials held discussions on enhancing bilateral cooperation in the field of intangible cultural heritage during the Ambassador's visit to the Institute.

Speaking to the media, Dr Al-Musallam described the meeting as a valuable opportunity to explore areas of collaboration with the Maldives, particularly in the preservation and documentation of oral traditions and folklore. He extended the formal invitation for Maldivian participation at the upcoming forum, recognising the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Ambassador Mohamed Hussain Shareef expressed gratitude for the invitation and praised Dr Al-Musallam’s efforts to foster cultural ties between nations. He noted that the Maldives’ presence at the Forum would serve as a unique platform to showcase Maldivian heritage to both Arab and international audiences.

As part of the visit, a short documentary on Maldivian Heritage Week 2021 was screened, highlighting previous efforts to preserve and promote the country’s cultural traditions.

The Sharjah International Narrator Forum brings together leading researchers, cultural practitioners, and institutions specialising in intangible heritage. The Maldives’ participation is expected to further enrich cultural exchange and strengthen dialogue on heritage preservation.