His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the opening of the third edition of the Sharjah Animation Conference. This came in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority.

The event, the first of its kind in the region, is organised by the Sharjah Book Authority and takes place from May 1 to 4 at the Expo Centre Sharjah. During the opening, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah was briefed on this year’s conference agenda, which features a rich lineup of specialised events including 26 professional workshops, 21 interactive panel discussions, film screenings, and themed exhibitions. The conference hosts 72 speakers from among the world’s top animation creators. His Highness also toured the conference halls and exhibitor booths, learning about the creative tools presented by participating entities from around the globe.

His Highness also viewed a short creative film produced by the Sharjah Book Authority. The film, presented in a visually rich and narratively innovative style, chronicled key milestones in the development of animation in the Arab world—from its early days in tents and marketplaces to modern productions that shaped generations.