Sharjah’s iconic cultural hub

About House of Wisdom

An iconic cultural and architecture landmark

The House of Wisdom was designed as a cultural hub that offers various means of learning that shifts the centre of focus towards people, interactions, and experiences.

From the open spaces to the wide variety of programs and events, we are creating a hub for cultures, ideas, and interests to interact in infinite possible ways, creating with it new opportunities for innovation, creativity, education, and entertainment.

An iconic cultural and architecture landmark

Our Missions

Our mission is to usher in a new era of learning. Where information is gained fluidly and seamlessly through everyday interactions; and knowledge is not only consumed but created in the process of engagement.

Designed for the Future

The House of Wisdom was commissioned by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates, Ruler of the Emirate of Sharjah in celebration of Sharjah winning the UNESCO World Book Capital 2019 title.

The building was designed by the award-winning architectural company, Foster + Partners. It extends over 12,000 square metres and includes a futuristic structure serenely surrounded by gardens and outdoor activity spaces. The architecture, which is sustainably driven, seamlessly integrates natural lighting and nature. Each space is designed to be functional and adaptive to the needs of the community

A History Rooted in Culture

Sharjah is the third largest of the UAE's seven emirates and is known for its robust educational and cultural infrastructure. Achieving world recognition for its efforts in preserving and enriching culture, it has won several titles, including the 'Cultural Capital of the Arab World' (1998), the 'Capital of Islamic Culture' (2014), and the 'Capital of Arab Tourism' (2015).

More recently, Sharjah won the 'UNESCO World Book Capital 2019' title, making it the first city amongst the gulf countries, the third among Arab countries, and the 19th globally to be endowed with this designation.

Sharjah World Book Capital

During The Sharjah World Book Capital 2019, Sharjah set out to create a rich program of events and activities that fostered knowledge and encouraged reading. The diverse range of activities were created with six objectives in mind: unifying communities, fostering knowledge, honouring heritage, empowering children, and youth, raising awareness, and developing the publishing industries.

The House of Wisdom was built as the living legacy of the Sharjah World Book Capital. It was commissioned by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates, Ruler of the Emirate of Sharjah with a mission to continue the efforts of fostering knowledge and enriching communities.

Sharjah’s iconic cultural hub

About House of Wisdom

An iconic cultural and architecture landmark

The House of Wisdom was designed as a cultural hub that offers various means of learning that shifts the centre of focus towards people, interactions, and experiences.