Guided by the wisdom and skills of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, the Emirate of Sharjah has not only emerged as the Cultural Capital of the UAE but also is crowned as the Cultural Capital of the Gulf countries as well as the Arab World. The promotion of Sharjah as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World by UNESCO in 1998 was a direct recognition of the wise leadership and tireless efforts by His Highness The Ruler of Sharjah in cultural affairs.

The cultural scheme for the Sharjah Emirate was formulated keeping in mind the vital role that culture is playing in the development of the community. The scheme focuses on developing the inherited artistic and aesthetic sense of the people and promoting their talents and intellectual aptitudes and creativities.

The Ruler of Sharjah ordered for the establishment of several cultural institutions in view of fulfilling his great vision. The projects covered conservation of cultural heritage, active interaction with other cultures, construction of museums and the other cultural, scientific and artistic centers in the Emirate and the setting up of a television satellite channel that reflects and projects the value of culture.