ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Stamps hold a special place as icons of a nation’s collective memory, commemorating its people, heritage, landmarks and milestones. For a young Indian expatriate, ideas born in his sketchbook during evening strolls after work have now found their way onto UAE stamps.
Muhammed Bilal, from the southern Indian state of Kerala and a design lead at the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, created six heritage-inspired designs for the visual identity of the 23rd Sharjah Heritage Festival.
The festival was held in February 2026 under the theme “The Glow of Authenticity” at the Heritage Area in the heart of Sharjah, and aimed to preserve and promote heritage through a wide variety of activities.
To mark its 23rd edition, Emirates Post partnered with the Sharjah Institute for Heritage to release a special commemorative stamp collection embodying the spirit of the festival, with Bilal’s designs selected for the collection.
“It was quite a surprise. I couldn’t believe it when Noura Al Khayal, Head of the Media Department at the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, informed me about it,” Bilal said.
He said he was grateful for the honour, thanking his parents, colleagues and the Sharjah Institute for Heritage for their support.
Bilal's interest in design began with a childhood passion for drawing. After school, he attended design courses that helped him develop his skills and turn that passion into a career.
Over three months, he immersed himself in the nuances of heritage in preparation for the festival, studying heritage symbols, traditional gatherings, clothing and everyday life.
“Sharjah is not short on inspiration. I often carry a sketchbook when I go for a walk after work. Whether it is a building, a person, an object or a moment, anything can spark an idea,” he said.
Rooted in the emirate’s authentic heritage, the festival’s six themes included shared happiness in “The Cannon of Joy”; heritage and identity in “The Spirit of Authenticity”; and the deep bond with the land, homeland and origins in “The Joy of Return”.
“The Light of the Path” reflected timeless values passed down through generations, while “The Blessing of the Home” symbolised stability, unity and the essence of family. “Steps for the Future” highlighted progress rooted in authentic tradition.
Bilal, who followed in his father’s footsteps by joining the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, said he remains grateful for the opportunity to contribute to an event that celebrated the UAE’s cultural identity.
“For me, the UAE, this land of opportunities, represents open arms that embrace everyone. Here I see the many layers of of a rich heritage that extends beyond what can be potrayed, yet remains very palpable,” he said.