Sharjah Classic Cars Festival revs up passion, innovation

The Sharjah Classic Cars Festival is set to return for its second edition from 13 to 17 February, under the theme ‘Where the Story Begins’. Celebrating the enduring allure of vintage automobiles, the event promises a unique blend of exhibitions and expert-led conversations exploring the vintage car sector's past, present, and future.

The festival, held at the Sharjah Old Cars Club (SOCC) headquarters, will discuss diverse topics, from the distinction between classic car ownership as a hobby or profession to the impact of technical and aesthetic modifications on a vehicle’s value and authenticity. Experts will also examine integrating electric technologies into classic cars, offering fresh insights into the evolving landscape of vintage vehicle restoration.

Commenting on the event, Ahmed Hamad Al Suwaidi, Board Member of SOCC, said: “The discussions serve as a vibrant platform for sharing expertise and sparking new ideas. Beyond showcasing the traditional appeal of classic cars, the sessions provide insights for owners, including innovative maintenance methods and strategies to boost the investment value of their collections. For investors, they offer valuable opportunities to explore market trends and gain a deeper understanding of the factors driving the appreciation or depreciation of vintage vehicles, enabling informed and strategic decision-making.”

He noted that the public can benefit from the firsthand experiences of experts and pioneers, enhancing their cultural and economic understanding of the classic car industry and inspiring greater engagement in the sector.

The business side of classic cars

The session titled ‘Owning Classic Cars: Passion or Investment?’ will explore how classic car ownership can evolve from a hobby into a lucrative investment opportunity. In ‘From Passion to Profit: Turning a Love for Classic Cars into Business Success,’ speakers will share inspiring stories and practical advice on transforming a deep enthusiasm for vintage automobiles into a sustainable and thriving enterprise. Meanwhile, the ‘Classic Cars Captured in Verse’ session will explore how poets have immortalised rare and iconic vehicles, blending creativity with admiration to craft evocative works celebrating their cultural and emotional impact.

Passion for collecting classic cars

The session, ‘How Modifications Influence the Value of Classic Cars,’ will explore how alterations impact the monetary value of vintage vehicles. Experts will provide insights into which modifications enhance value and when preserving a car's originality is best to avoid devaluation. The discussion, ‘A New Generation Behind the Wheel: The Appeal of Classic Cars,’ will examine the growing interest of younger enthusiasts in vintage vehicles and how they personalise them to reflect their unique identities.

In the English-language session ‘Travelling in Classic Cars: Challenges and Joys,’ speakers will discuss the distinctive experience of journeying in classic automobiles, including the practical requirements and rewarding nature of such adventures. Additionally, ‘The Role of Car Clubs: Building Communities and Knowledge’ will focus on how clubs foster a culture of car ownership by supporting enthusiasts, providing resources, and strengthening the classic car community.

Finally, the session ‘Electric Conversions in Classic Cars: A Path to the Future?’ will delve into the adoption of eco-friendly technology in vintage vehicles, discussing its acceptance among enthusiasts and experts. It will also address the impact of such transformations on the car’s market value and appeal in the evolving automotive landscape.

Last year, the Sharjah Classic Cars Festival 2024 held its inaugural edition, leaving an indelible mark with an impressive gathering of over 15,000 avid classic cars enthusiasts and lovers across its vibrant three-day showcase.

Held under the theme "More than just cars," the first edition showcased a diverse array of hundreds of classic cars and hosted five insightful panel discussions attended by over 300 participants, signifying a new transformative phase.

The closing ceremony commenced with a welcome speech by Hoda Thani, a member of the organising committee of the Sharjah Classic Cars Festival, and media personality Khalid Ahmed. The event unfolded with a captivating visual presentation, offering a glimpse into the official attendance audience engagement, and their sheer delight of classic cars displays and associated activities.

Dr Mohammed Butti Bin Obaid Al Hajri, Vice-Chairman of the Board, and members of the Board of Directors of Sharjah Classic Cars Club, delivered the closing speech.