Sharjah Ruler Announces New Fish-Drying Facility and Culinary Festival for Kalba
Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, has revealed plans for a state-of-the-art fish-drying factory in Kalba. Announced during a radio interview on the "Direct Line" programme, this initiative aims to modernize the traditional preservation of sardines and fermented fish, known locally as Jashe and Sahnah. By integrating contemporary food safety and quality standards, the project seeks to reduce waste and increase the economic value of local catches, providing a significant boost to the livelihoods of regional fishermen.
To celebrate this cultural heritage, the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry will host the Jashe and Sahnah Festival in Kalba on September 24. This event builds on the success of the popular Al Maleh and Fishing Festival in Dibba Al Hisn, serving as both a tribute to Emirati traditions and a platform for economic growth. This announcement marks another milestone in the ongoing urban and heritage transformation of Kalba, which has seen massive infrastructure developments since 2019, with several major projectsâincluding museums, road networks, and recreational landmarksâset to be unveiled this December.