The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), in cooperation with Kalba City Municipality, will launch the inaugural Jashe and Sahnah Festival in Kalba from September 24 to 27.

The festival will celebrate two traditional East Coast products: Jashe, sun-dried fish, and Sahnah, a fermented fish condiment that has been part of local life for generations.

The event will bring together government entities, fishing-supply companies, fish-processing facilities, productive families and home-based businesses. Visitors will be able to purchase locally made products and sample Jashe varieties and Sahnah powder prepared using traditional recipes and flavours.

The programme will feature competitions, educational workshops and awareness sessions focused on marine sustainability and responsible fishing. Visitors can also learn about traditional fish-catching and drying methods and the preparation of Sahnah using local spices.

The festival will also showcase modern fishing technologies, boats and maritime products, alongside a marketplace for productive families.

Mohammad Al Awadi, Director-General of SCCI, said the Jashe and Sahnah Festival is SCCI’s latest economic and heritage initiative, supporting its efforts to promote the coastal food industries deeply rooted in the heritage and collective memory of Eastern Region communities.

He highlighted the traditional expertise involved in the sustainable use and preservation of marine resources, noting that the festival showcases the production of Jashe and the preparation of Sahnah from dried fish, while demonstrating how these traditional practices can be developed into value-added economic products.

Dr. Ahmed  Al Mazrouei, Director of Kalba City Municipality, said preparations for the Jashe and Sahnah Festival are progressing in line with the highest quality standards, in collaboration with the Sharjah Chamber and participating partners, to deliver an inaugural edition befitting Kalba’s standing and stature.

He noted that the festival will serve as a family and tourism destination, drawing visitors from across the UAE and international tourists while supporting greater community engagement and local economic activity. -TradeArabia News Service