Sharjah Deputy Ruler Inaugurates ‘Masterpieces of Islamic Art’ Exhibition in Oman

Muscat, March 17, 2025 – H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the Masterpieces of Islamic Art from the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation exhibition at the National Museum of Oman on Monday. Running until May, the exhibition highlights the historical and artistic richness of Islamic civilisation, while reinforcing the strong cultural ties between the UAE and Oman.

The opening ceremony began with a speech by Jamal Al Moosawi, Secretary-General of the National Museum of Oman, who welcomed Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi and the attendees. He emphasized that the exhibition, a result of collaboration between the National Museum of Oman and the Sharjah Museums Authority, showcases the beauty and evolution of Islamic art through rare artefacts.

The exhibition is divided into three sections: Calligraphic Arts, Sciences and Innovations, and Harmony and Diversity, featuring a carefully curated selection of 82 rare artefacts, including manuscripts, metalwork, ceramics, and historical coins that illustrate the artistic and cultural depth of Islamic civilisation.

Aisha Rashid Deemas, Director-General of the Sharjah Museums Authority, highlighted the significance of this exhibition, stating that it reflects the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, in using culture and the arts to strengthen regional ties and promote cultural exchange.

Among the notable artefacts displayed for the first time outside the UAE are a silver cup bearing the tughra of Ottoman Sultan Abdul Hamid II, a six-sided dining chair crafted for Al-Nasir Muhammad ibn Qalawun, and the first Islamic dirham minted in Baghdad after the Mongol invasion. The exhibition also features an 11th or 12th-century feline-shaped incense burner and a gilded ceramic ewer from the 13th century, demonstrating the diverse artistic traditions of the Islamic world.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi toured the exhibition, receiving a detailed overview of the rare artefacts on display. The exhibition serves as a platform to deepen cultural appreciation, foster dialogue, and strengthen cooperation between the UAE and Oman, while celebrating the artistic legacy of Islamic civilisation.

The inauguration was attended by Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Oman’s Minister of Heritage and Tourism, Mohammed bin Nakhira Al Dhaheri, UAE Ambassador to Oman, senior officials, and cultural dignitaries from both countries.