Due to the overwhelming response drawn by the “Messenger of Mercy and Humanity and his Virtues in the Prophet’s City” exhibition by renowned Saudi artist Abdullah Al Sanea, the Sharjah Museums Department (SMD) has decided to extend the exhibition until Sept. 3.The decision to extend the exhibition, which opened on June 26 at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation (SMIC), was made as the Holy Month of Ramadan approaches.The most important goal of the exhibition, which highlights the artistic spirit through Islamic motifs, patterns and symbols, is to invite Muslims and non-Muslims from all over the world to experience the greatness of this religion, represented by the Master of Messengers, through verses and Hadith.Speaking on the occasion, Manal Ataya, director general of SMD, said, “The response to the exhibition has been impressive, and we are proud that the Emirate of Sharjah is among the first destinations to host the renowned artist Abdullah Al Sanea and showcase his works. The decision to extend the exhibition was made to allow a wider audience to learn more about the Islamic legacy through this fine art”.She added: “We at the SMD are constantly striving to fulfill our roles in various fields, and we are keen to organise activities and exhibitions that help implement the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, which aim to enrich public culture through the contents and exhibitions housed in the Emirate’s eighteen museums. Culture has become an urgent global priority as it is a means for development, and we seek to give sufficient attention to this important human demand through all of our activities.”In addition to extending the exhibition, the SMD also announced that entry to the SMIC will be free to the public during Ramadan and Eid, in a move that aims to encourage Sharjah’s residents and visitors to seek knowledge, appreciate the Islamic arts and enjoy history, science and Islamic culture. The SMD is striving to highlight the active role of Islamic civilization in global history and provide an opportunity for the public to learn about Islamic achievements as well as the museum’s unique artefacts.The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization focuses on youth and children, and is endeavouring to organise and host cultural programmes and youth-oriented forums, seminars and lectures that focus on developing Islamic belief and improving scientific, creative and cultural abilities. In addition to these activities and its exhibitions and galleries, the museum also holds various activities, intellectual competitions and training courses. From / Gulf today