Kalba’s first Jashe and Sahnah Festival draws 45,000 visitors, hits Dh1 million sales

The inaugural Jashe and Sahnah Festival in Kalba, United Arab Emirates, drew a record-breaking 45,000 visitors over four days, resulting in Dh1 million in sales. Organized by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) and Kalba City Municipality, the festival spanned 4,800 square meters in Al Samar neighborhood's Al Ghail Suburb.

Featuring over 85 families specializing in traditional seafood dishes and maritime products, alongside government entities and fishing companies, the event aimed to turn local heritage into commercial opportunities.

With four times the expected visitor count, the festival provided small producers direct access to a large consumer base while creating a marketplace for traditional products. Mohammad Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, SCCI's Director General, highlighted the milestone in Sharjah's efforts to boost tourism and commerce, particularly in the eastern region.

Dr. Ahmed Saeed Al Mazrouei, Kalba City Municipality's Director, emphasized the collaboration between the municipality and SCCI in establishing the festival as a heritage and economic platform.

The festival showcased traditional Jashe, sun-dried fish, and Sahnah, a fermented fish condiment, through live demonstrations and competitions. Participants learned modern packaging, grading, sorting, and drying techniques to enhance product quality and market value. Educational workshops addressed responsible fishing, modern drying methods, and marine environmental protection.

The event also celebrated Kalba's maritime heritage with folkloric performances and displays of traditional equipment, preserving cultural practices while fostering new economic prospects.