Sharjah, the third largest emirate in the UAE, is known for its rich cultural heritage and its passion for preserving the past. One of the ways that Sharjah celebrates its history is by hosting an annual festival for old cars, which showcases more than 100 classic vehicles from different eras and countries.
The Sharjah Old Cars Club (SOCC), which was established by an Emiri decree in 2021, is the organizer of this unique event. The club aims to be one of the most important and leading specialized clubs in the region and to promote the hobby of collecting and restoring old cars among the public.
The first edition of the festival will take place in January 2024 and will feature a variety of activities and attractions for old car enthusiasts and visitors alike.. The festival will be held at the Sharjah Classic Car Museum, which is located near the airport of Sharjah and opposite Sharjah Discovery Center. The museum displays more than 100 old cars manufactured in the early 20th century, including a Model T Ford, a 1974 MG Midget, and a 1969 Mercedes Pullman Limousine that was custom-made for Sharjah's ruler.
The festival will also include a parade of old cars on the streets of Sharjah, a competition for the best old car in different categories, a workshop on how to maintain and repair old cars, and a market for selling and buying old car parts and accessories. In addition, the festival will host guest speakers and experts from local and international old car clubs and associations, who will share their knowledge and experience with the audience.
The SOCC hopes that the festival will attract a large number of visitors from inside and outside the UAE, and that it will raise awareness about the value and beauty of old cars. The club also hopes that the festival will encourage more people to join the club and to participate in its events and activities throughout the year.
The SOCC's chairman, Dr. Ali Ahmed Abu Al Zawd, said that the festival is a result of the club's efforts to achieve its vision and objectives and to contribute to Sharjah's cultural and tourism scene. He added that the festival is supported by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Ak Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who has a keen interest in old cars and their preservation.
The SOCC's vice president, Dr. Mohammed Butti bin Obaid Al Hajiri, said that the festival is a unique opportunity for old car lovers to meet and exchange ideas and experiences. He also said that the festival is a platform for showcasing Sharjah's rich collection of old cars, which reflects its history and identity.
The SOCC invites all old car fans and enthusiasts to attend the festival and to enjoy its various programs and activities. The club also welcomes anyone who wishes to join the club or donate or lend their old cars to the club or the museum.
