Sharjah Supports UNESCO to Restore Beirut Grand Theatre

The Government of Sharjah and UNESCO signed an important agreement to restore the famous Beirut Grand Theatre. The signing ceremony took place at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France. This move continues the vision and support of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who has always encouraged cultural development across the Arab world.

A Step Towards Preserving Arab Heritage

The new agreement aims to revive one of Lebanon’s oldest and most iconic theatres — the Beirut Grand Theatre. The project forms part of Sharjah’s ongoing commitment to protecting Arab art, heritage, and creativity. The restoration will not only preserve a landmark of history but also bring back a cultural symbol for Lebanon and the entire region.

Dignitaries Attend the Signing Ceremony

The signing was attended by Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Culture; Ernesto Ottone Ramirez, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture; Hind Darwish, Lebanon’s Ambassador to UNESCO; Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, Director of Cultural Affairs in Sharjah; George Kreidi, Director of the UNESCO Office in Beirut; and several diplomats, officials, and Arab intellectuals. Their presence showed the global value of this partnership.

Strengthening Cultural Cooperation

Speaking at the ceremony, Abdullah Al Owais highlighted the importance of working together to promote culture. He explained that cultural cooperation between countries and international bodies helps societies grow stronger and more connected. According to him, the agreement shows Sharjah’s ongoing efforts to create a world filled with art, knowledge, and creative exchange.

Continuing the Vision of Sharjah’s Ruler

Al Owais added that this project continues the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, who has long supported cultural and educational projects both in the Arab world and internationally. The Sharjah Ruler believes in building a world where art and knowledge guide humanity toward peace and progress.

UNESCO Praises Sharjah’s Cultural Role

UNESCO’s Ernesto Ramirez praised Sharjah for its continuous support in global cultural initiatives. He said that Sharjah’s funding for the Beirut Theatre project proves the emirate’s strong role in protecting cultural heritage. Ramirez also described the cooperation between UNESCO and Sharjah as a great example of how global partnerships can protect historical buildings and artistic identity.

Lebanon Appreciates Sharjah’s Efforts

Lebanon’s Ambassador to UNESCO, Hind Darwish, expressed her country’s deep appreciation for Sharjah’s contribution. She said the restoration will greatly help Lebanon’s artistic community and strengthen cultural life in Beirut. She also acknowledged Sharjah’s leadership in reviving Arab culture, calling it a “beacon of creativity and civilisation.”

Sharjah’s Global Cultural Contributions

Sharjah has long been known as a centre for cultural growth and education. Over the years, the emirate has launched several international projects to support libraries, museums, arts festivals, and heritage sites. These efforts show Sharjah’s belief that culture is an essential part of human life and global understanding.

Restoring a Historic Landmark

The Beirut Grand Theatre was designed by Youssef Aftimos and built by Jacques Tabet in the 1920s. It officially opened in 1929 and hosted numerous theatre performances and cultural events for decades. Sadly, due to war and damage, the theatre was closed for many years. The new agreement will allow it to shine once again, symbolising hope and unity through art.

UNESCO’s International Campaign

The restoration project is part of UNESCO’s larger international campaign to save Beirut’s cultural landmarks after years of damage. With Sharjah’s contribution, the campaign receives a powerful boost. The project aims to bring back the theatre’s original design and restore it as a place for creativity, education, and community gatherings.

The signing of this agreement represents more than just a cultural act—it is a symbol of cooperation, friendship, and shared history between Sharjah, Lebanon, and UNESCO. By restoring the Beirut Grand Theatre, Sharjah once again shows that culture can connect people beyond borders and build bridges of peace.