Sharjah’s cultural calendar fills up in autumn. Two events suit visitors and residents who love art and cinema: the 12th Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial, opening on 7 October 2026, and Sharjah Film Platform 9, running 30 October to 8 November 2026. Here is what is confirmed, and how to plan around it. For the wider picture, see the Sharjah events calendar.
12th Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial
- Opening: 7 October 2026, under the theme “Balance”, organised by the Cultural Affairs Department of the Sharjah Department of Culture (WAM, 26 Aug 2026).
- Duration: the Department said the biennial would run for two months with local, Arab and international participation (Sharjah Department of Culture). The closing date was not stated in the official publications we used; check before you plan a late visit.
- Selection: the committee reviewed 459 works submitted by 182 calligraphers and artists and selected 297 works by 145 artists from around the world, spanning traditional, modern and contemporary calligraphy and decorative art (WAM).
- Venue: the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum in the Heart of Sharjah has regularly served as a venue for the biennial, according to a general art-destination guide; confirm the 2026 venues with the organiser.
Sharjah Film Platform 9
- Dates: 30 October to 8 November 2026.
- Organiser: Sharjah Art Foundation, as its annual festival of standalone cinema and experimental filmmaking.
- Venues: Mirage City Cinema at Al Mureijah Square and other cinemas in Sharjah.
- Programme: UAE premieres of films nominated by an international committee, competing for the Sharjah Film Platform Awards (Sharjah24, 30 June 2026; Sharjah Art Foundation).
Other art dates to keep in mind
- Sharjah Art Foundation’s autumn programme also includes the fifth edition of Perform Sharjah and the annual art book fair Focal Point, per the Foundation’s programme announcement (dates not confirmed here).
- Sharjah Islamic Arts Festival is covered in a separate guide: Sharjah Islamic Arts Festival.
- Sharjah Biennial 17 opens in January 2027; see the Biennial guide.
Planning tips
- Group venues by area. Al Mureijah Square and the Heart of Sharjah are close, so you can combine a screening with a gallery visit.
- Buy passes early if you plan several films.
- Check opening hours for each venue; they vary by day.
- Arrive early for evening open-air screenings to find seating and parking.
- Pair culture with the Book Fair. The Sharjah International Book Fair runs 4 to 15 November.
Making a culture day in Sharjah
A realistic day runs from an exhibition in the morning to lunch in the historic centre, a gallery or museum in the afternoon and an evening screening. Because Sharjah’s cultural venues cluster around Al Mureijah Square and the Heart of Sharjah, you can often walk between them. Check each venue’s opening hours, which can differ by day and during events.
Etiquette and practicalities
- Dress modestly for heritage districts and religious sites.
- Ask before photographing artworks or people.
- Carry water, especially outdoors in the early part of autumn.
- If you rely on ride-hailing, set your pick-up point a short walk from busy squares.
Where to stay or live nearby
If you spend a lot of time at cultural venues, the central districts may suit you. Compare them in Best areas to live in Sharjah and Living in Sharjah vs Dubai.
Frequently asked questions
When does the Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial open?
On 7 October 2026, according to WAM and Sharjah24.
What is the theme?
“Balance”.
When is Sharjah Film Platform 9?
30 October to 8 November 2026.
Where are the film screenings?
Mirage City Cinema at Al Mureijah Square and other cinemas in Sharjah.
Event information checked on the date shown and may change. Always confirm dates, times, tickets and venue details on the official website before you go. General information only. Information checked 2 October 2026.