Sharjah’s Tanweer Festival returns: Live music, food, desert magic await

Sharjah: Tanweer Festival, is set to return this November, bringing with it a powerful blend of music, art, sustainability and spiritual reflection.
Following the success of its debut edition, the one-of-a-kind festival is set to once again light up the majestic dunes of Mleiha in Sharjah, and transform the desert landscape into a haven of connection and creativity.

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the visionary force behind the three-day festival, views it as a platform that transcends borders, fosters community connection, and deepens our understanding of shared humanity.

“We are thrilled to bring Tanweer Festival back for its second edition, and this time, it’s even more ambitious, immersive, and meaningful.”
The festival builds on the success of its inaugural edition, which drew attendees from across the UAE and beyond.

“Last year’s debut was just the beginning of a journey that resonated deeply with so many people, and this year we are building on that foundation with a richer programme, stronger sustainability practices, and an even more powerful message of unity. I truly can’t wait to welcome our growing community back to the Mleiha desert to continue this journey together.”

This year’s festival theme: ‘What You Seek Is Seeking You’, draws inspiration from the works of 13th-century Sufi poet Rumi.

The Main Stage will be a multisensory arena with live music set against immersive desert visuals and ambient lighting.
The Dome, a space for talks and workshops will serve as the intellectual hub of the festival.
The Tree of Life serves as a serene space for gathering and reflection.
Nourish, the festival’s culinary hub, offers organic, farm-to-table dishes, including vegan, vegetarian, and traditional Bedouin-style BBQs.
The Marketplace features handpicked artisans offering unique handcrafted items.
Art lover can explore open-air installations that blends into the natural desert environment.

Organisers have confirmed the festival will be a zero single-use plastic event, with comprehensive recycling and composting strategies in place. Food vendors will follow zero-waste principles, and sustainability education will be embedded across the programme.