Inauguration of Arab Theater Institute Headquarters in Al Hira by Sharjah Ruler

The Arab Theater Institute’s (ATI) main office in Al Hira was officially opened by H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. Welcoming theatre artists from various Arab nations, Dr. Sheikh Sultan expressed his joy at their presence in Sharjah and congratulated them on the inauguration. Stressing the significance of theatre in enriching society, he announced a financial contribution to support the Institute’s work and reiterated his commitment to promoting theatre across all Arab nations.

During his visit, the Sharjah Ruler toured the Institute’s main offices, housed in two restored traditional heritage houses. He inspected various facilities such as administrative and technical departments, a library, publishing and training departments, a school theatre, a digital library, and the Arab Center for Documentation and Theater Studies. The headquarters, designed in traditional Emirati architectural style with modern amenities, features intricate wood carvings and plaster decorations. The building and its surroundings are equipped with services to facilitate visitor movement.

Ismail Abdullah, Secretary-General of the Arab Theater Institute, expressed the theatre community’s gratitude for the continuous support of the Ruler. He emphasized that the new headquarters would inspire Arab theatre artists to further progress and enhance theatre standards across Arab cities. Arab artists from various countries also lauded the Ruler’s support and the opening of the Institute’s headquarters. The ceremony was attended by several officials and numerous theatre practitioners from diverse Arab countries.