Classic automobiles in Sharjah encapsulate the country's past, functioning as vintage historical artifacts.
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The Sharjah Old Cars Club (SOCC), a Sharjah-based entity, is dedicated to preserving, restoring, and showcasing classic cars as storytellers of the UAE's history[1]. These vintage vehicles symbolise different eras and aspects of Emirati heritage, reflecting the country's transformation from a pearl diving and trading society into a modern global hub[1].
SOCC's collection includes rugged Land Rovers used for early desert exploration, American muscle cars popular during the oil boom, and elegant Mercedes sedans favoured by early leaders, each representing stages in the UAE's development and identity[1]. The club organises events like the Sharjah Classic Cars Festival, which displays hundreds of rare vehicles, including notable examples once owned by founding leaders such as Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan[1][3].
In the UAE's extreme heat, humidity, and dust, classic cars face unique threats, causing rubber seals to dry and crack, interiors to fade and warp, and promoting corrosion[2]. To combat these issues, SOCC provides expert guidance, recommending modern upgrades like ceramic-coated radiators to protect engines from heat while preserving the historical integrity of the vehicles[2].
The club also advocates adherence to traffic regulations and encourages ongoing care to keep vintage cars operational and visible, ensuring younger generations remain connected to this unique aspect of Emirati culture[2]. Ahmad Seif bin Handal, the Director of the Sharjah Old Cars Club, urges classic car owners in the UAE to work on their vehicles between 6 and 8am to leverage cooler temperatures and reduce thermal stress[2].
SOCC's efforts extend beyond preservation. They collaborate with entities like Emirates Auction to promote classic car culture, helping to bring rare vintage automobiles to collectors through events such as the first online classic car auction in the region[4].
The new generation is often drawn to classic cars through social media, family influence, event exposure, and a growing appreciation for the mechanical artistry and historical significance of these vehicles[1]. SOCC uses family-focused events, meetups, and their annual festival to create environments where children and teens can interact with owners and their classic cars[1].
However, maintaining classic cars incorrectly can lead to problems, according to Ahmad Seif bin Handal. Using incorrect oils or failing to change brake fluid regularly can cause issues[2]. Changing technology has also aided in car restorations, with methods like 3D scanning and printing, and new fabrication techniques such as hydroforming and water jet cutting being increasingly used[1].
Online communities and forums have made sharing knowledge and finding rare parts easier, according to Ahmad Seif bin Handal[1]. The SOCC often conducts workshops and presentations that blend history, engineering, and hands-on skills for youngsters during summer camps[1]. One of the most encouraging trends he has seen in recent times is the interest of the younger generation in classic cars[1].
In conclusion, the Sharjah Old Cars Club is a pivotal institution in the UAE for safeguarding classic cars as living historical artifacts, linking the country's automotive past to its cultural identity and future[1][2][4]. The second edition of the club's Sharjah Classic Cars Festival showcased over 400 rare vehicles, some dating back to the early 1900's[2]. Maintaining classic cars inappropriately is one of the most common mistakes made by rookies in the UAE[2]. The SOCC was established in 2008 and often conducts exhibitions and roadshows to integrate automotive history into Sharjah's broader narrative of tradition[1].
- The Sharjah Old Cars Club, with a focus on technology, organizes events like the online classic car auction to bring rare vintage automobiles to collectors.
- In the realm of health, Ahmad Seif bin Handal advises classic car owners to work on their vehicles during cooler morning hours to reduce thermal stress.
- The automotive past of the UAE, as represented by classic cars, is moving towards a more sustainable future with an increasing interest in electric vehicles.
- The nostalgia for sports cars is fueled by social media, family influence, and event exposure, captivating the new generation in the lifestyle category.
- The Sharjah Old Cars Club collaborates with entities like Emirates Auction to promote classic car culture and integrate automotive history into Sharjah's broader narrative of tradition.
- The home-and-garden challenge for owners of classic cars lies in maintaining the historical accuracy of their vehicles while incorporating modern upgrades like ceramic-coated radiators for engine protection.
- Food for thought: Maintaining classic cars incorrectly can lead to problems, such as using incorrect oils or failing to change brake fluid regularly, thus requiring ongoing care and education for owners.
- In the world of games and hobbies, the Sharjah Old Cars Club's annual festival and family-focused events provide opportunities for children and teens to interact with owners and classic cars, fostering a connection with Emirati culture and history.
