Recognized in 1998 by UNESCO for the emirate’s role in the cultural environment of the Arab world, his Highness Dr. Shaikh Sultan bin
Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, unveiled the monument to commemorate Sharjah being declared the Islamic Culture Capital at the main entrance of the University City of Sharjah, signaling celebrations of the emirate on the occasion.
In a speech that followed the unveiling of the monument, Dr. Shaikh Sultan said differences in beliefs, ethnicities and backgrounds do not mean clash of
cultures, but they mean acquaintance.

“The culture of Islam is based on acquaintance and not exclusion. We are all descendants of one father and one mother. We are all equal, and the most
honorable amongst us is the most righteous,” he added. Dr. Shaikh Sultan also said that Islam is the religion of forgiveness, tolerance
and mercy.