His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has extended generous financial support toward the rehabilitation of the historic Beirut Grand Theatre, one of Lebanon’s most treasured cultural landmarks.
The initiative forms part of UNESCO’s international campaign to restore the theatre, a cornerstone of Beirut’s artistic and architectural heritage. The contribution reflects His Highness’s enduring commitment to safeguarding cultural identity and fostering international collaboration through the arts, values that have long guided Sharjah’s global cultural mission.
Originally designed by Youssef Aftimos and built by Jacques Tabet in the 1920s, the Beirut Grand Theatre opened its doors in 1929 as a beacon of creativity and cosmopolitan spirit. With seating for 630 guests, it featured an orchestra pit, two balconies, and a stage equipped with intricate mechanical systems. The theatre’s elegant stained-glass ceiling and its moveable steel dome became symbols of the sophistication that once defined Beirut’s golden age.
For decades, the venue hosted world-class operatic, theatrical, and musical performances, drawing audiences from across the region. It remained active until the mid-1970s, when years of conflict led to its closure and gradual decline. Despite the passage of time, its neoclassical façade and timeworn interiors continue to embody the cultural resilience of Lebanon and its people.
The restoration of the Beirut Grand Theatre stands as a continuation of the strong partnership between Sharjah and UNESCO, which has flourished through numerous joint initiatives, exhibitions, and awards. His Highness has consistently championed culture as a bridge between nations, with Sharjah earning international recognition as a UNESCO World Book Capital and a hub for Arab culture and creativity.
Through his unwavering patronage, His Highness reaffirms that the preservation of heritage is not merely an act of restoration but a renewal of dialogue, understanding, and collective memory. The rehabilitation of the theatre will return one of Beirut’s most iconic cultural landmarks to its rightful place, a living stage for artistic expression and a symbol of hope for future generations.
