Historic First for Arab Cultural Diplomacy

First Arab to Receive Portugal's Top Cultural Honor

A landmark event took place in Lisbon, significant for the cultural life of the United Arab Emirates and international diplomacy: His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the ruler of the Emirate of Sharjah, received the Grande Colar da Ordem de Camões award, becoming the first Arab figure to be honored with Portugal's highest cultural award. This recognition not only highlights an individual's life work but has also become a symbolic reinforcement of the cultural bridge spanning decades between the Arab and Portuguese worlds.

Culture as a Diplomatic Force

The award was presented by Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa during an official ceremony at the presidential palace in Lisbon. The timing of the event was symbolic: this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the UAE and Portugal. In his speech, the President stated that there is no more fitting way to celebrate the anniversary than by honoring a personality who "embodies the ideal of dialogue between cultures, whose life's work is based on intellectual commitment, mutual respect, and profound humanity."

Sheikh Sultan is not just a political leader but also a thinker, historian, writer, and playwright. Author of nearly 200 works, his contributions have been translated into over twenty languages worldwide. His works often address the Portuguese presence in Asia and the Middle East, fostering an understanding and interpretation of a shared past.

Sharjah and Coimbra: The Alliance of Knowledge

During the ceremonial speeches, the longstanding collaboration between Sharjah and the University of Coimbra in Portugal was also highlighted. In 2018, the distinguished institution awarded Sheikh Sultan an honorary doctorate, acknowledging his scientific and cultural contributions. Many of the ruler's research and publications are the fruits of this collaboration, shedding new light on the historical ties of the region.

The Portuguese president particularly praised the openness to the scientific and cultural heritage of the Arab world, which is supported by Sharjah's heritage-preserving initiatives – such as the annual Sharjah Heritage Days, where Portugal will be the guest of honor this February.

Sheikh Sultan: "Culture is not a luxury, but a human need"

In the ruler's speech, he emphasized that this recognition is a great honor for him, especially from a nation renowned for its scientific and cultural traditions. He described culture not merely as heritage but as an active, constructive tool that bridges distances between peoples.

"When I visit Portugal, I feel I encounter a living history – with vivid imprints of historical connections to the Portuguese and Arab worlds," he said. He added, "Culture is not just a legacy of the past but also a force that shapes the future, giving hope to the next generations."

Sheikh Sultan emphasized that this award is not just for him but for Arab culture, the cultural vision of the UAE, and especially Sharjah's committed cultural path that places the importance of knowledge at its core.

The Camões Order: Building a Bridge Between Cultures

The Grande Colar da Ordem de Camões is Portugal's highest cultural award bestowed by the head of state by royal decree. It is named after Luís de Camões, a central figure in Portuguese literary identity. The award can be given to those who have had an outstanding impact on culture, literature, and dialogue between civilizations.

The ceremony was attended by several high-ranking guests, including Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of the Sharjah Book Authority, as well as cultural experts and representatives of international media.

Building a Shared Future with Culture

Sheikh Sultan concluded his speech by expressing gratitude for the openness of the Portuguese nation and its interest in the world's cultures. He emphasized: "Dialogue between civilizations is not a luxury, but a human need. Culture is not just heritage to preserve but a bridge we construct together."

The award and its message go beyond a ceremonial act: they highlight the fact that culture can connect two distinct worlds, and that the UAE – particularly Sharjah – has a long-term goal of strengthening knowledge, tolerance, and international cooperation. This concept has long been part of the emirate's strategy and has now officially received historic international recognition.

This award is not only the pride of Sharjah but also an inspiring message for the entire Arab world: culture can be a bridge between peoples and generations, and those who build it leave a lasting mark in history.