Vintage automobiles in Sharjah offer a glimpse into the Emirate's past, functioning as time capsules of the nation's history.
Sharjah Old Cars Club Preserves UAE's Automotive History
The Sharjah Old Cars Club (SOCC) is a unique organisation that preserves, restores, and showcases classic cars as storytellers of the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) history. Based in Sharjah, the club is dedicated to maintaining these vehicles as operational symbols of the nation’s transformation—from a pearl diving and trading society to a modern hub.
The second edition of the club's Sharjah Classic Cars Festival showcased over 400 rare vehicles, some dating back to the early 1900's. Notable exhibits included classic cars once owned by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, such as a 1988 two-door Range Rover Classic formerly owned by Sheikh Zayed and a 1988 four-door Range Rover owned by Sheikh Khalifa.
Ahmad Seif bin Handal, Director of Sharjah Old Cars Club and Museum, stated that vehicles like rugged Land Rovers were used in early desert exploration, while American muscle cars were popular during the oil boom era, and elegant Mercedes sedans were favored by early leaders. To engage younger generations, SOCC utilizes frequent exhibitions, roadshows, and social media platforms to share restoration stories and historical narratives associated with each car.
In restoring classic cars in the UAE, advanced methods include the use of ceramic-coated radiators to improve engine cooling amid extreme heat, sun-reflective thermal covers to protect interiors, and nano underbody coatings that shield against rust and corrosion, especially in humid coastal areas. Recommended maintenance times are early mornings to avoid thermal stress on vehicles and technicians.
Maintaining classic cars inappropriately is one of the most common mistakes made by rookies in the UAE, with Ahmad stating that the UAE's extreme heat, humidity, and dust pose unique threats to these vehicles. He urged classic car owners in the UAE to work on their vehicles between 6 and 8am to leverage cooler temperatures and reduce thermal stress. Ahmad also added that using incorrect oils or failing to change brake fluid regularly can lead to problems.
Changing technology has helped aid in car restorations, with methods like 3D scanning and printing, and new fabrication techniques such as hydroforming and water jet cutting being increasingly used to recreate rare, damaged, or completely unavailable parts. Online communities and forums have made sharing knowledge and finding rare parts easier, according to Ahmad Seif bin Handal.
SOCC offers workshops and presentations in their summer camp, blending history, engineering, and hands-on skills. The club often conducts exhibitions and roadshows to integrate automotive history into Sharjah's broader narrative of tradition. Family-focused events, meetups, and the annual festival are platforms created by SOCC for children and teenagers to interact with classic car owners and their vehicles.
Ahmad Seif bin Handal mentioned that one of the most encouraging trends he has seen in recent times is the interest of the younger generation in classic cars. He stated that this new generation is often drawn in through social media, family influence, event exposure, and a growing appreciation for the mechanical artistry and historical significance of these vehicles.
By keeping these vehicles visible through exhibitions, roadshows, and the annual Sharjah Classic Cars Festival, SOCC connects younger generations with UAE’s heritage, helping to sustain appreciation for automotive heritage in a format that appeals to younger audiences.
- The Sharjah Old Cars Club (SOCC) also exhibits news about food and lifestyle, sharing stories of meals enjoyed by early leaders and the evolution of dining habits in the UAE.
- The technology of home-and-garden improvement has played a role in preserving these historical vehicles, with protection measures like sun-reflective thermal covers and nano underbody coatings being implemented.
- In sports, Ahmad Seif bin Handal posits that classic cars can be likened to competitive games, requiring strategy, skill, and patience to restore them to their former glory.
- The POCC's efforts extend beyond automotive history, showing an environmental concern for the emission standards of restored vehicles and promoting energy-efficient modifications.
- Businesses in the UAE are encouraged to sponsor SOCC events, offering a unique advertising opportunity for brands wishing to align themselves with the club's commitment to preserving the nation's past.
- The Sharjah Old Cars Club (SOCC) organizes games and activities for children and teenagers, blending education about the history of the automotive industry with interactive experiences, fostering an interest in history and learning among the younger generation.
