Mawaheb Saeed, Co-Founder and Managing Director of YAZ Media, has published a new opinion article in Al Khaleej, examining how seasonal occasions have evolved into important indicators of a city's identity, reputation, and ability to deliver meaningful experiences for residents and visitors. Titled “Eid in Sharjah Is a Test of the City’s Identity,” the article explores the growing role of urban experience in shaping public perception and long-term city competitiveness. It argues that people do not remember cities solely because of events, promotions, or spending levels, but because of the quality, comfort, and consistency of the experiences they encounter. According to Mawaheb Saeed, holidays and major public occasions have become opportunities for cities to demonstrate how effectively they manage public spaces, services, mobility, and visitor experiences. These moments increasingly influence how people perceive a city and whether they choose to return in the future. The article highlights the relationship between city branding and quality of life, emphasizing that urban identity is built through everyday experiences rather than promotional campaigns alone. From accessibility and organization to public services and cultural offerings, the details that people experience firsthand play a significant role in shaping a city's reputation. A key theme of the article is the importance of creating integrated and human-centered experiences. Mawaheb Saeed notes that successful cities are those that design environments where residents and visitors feel comfortable, connected, and valued, particularly during peak seasons when expectations are highest. The article also discusses how regional competition among cities is evolving. Rather than competing solely through infrastructure projects or large-scale events, cities are increasingly distinguished by their ability to deliver seamless experiences that strengthen belonging, trust, and overall quality of life. Through this perspective, Mawaheb Saeed argues that urban reputation is no longer built through messaging alone, but through the experiences people live and remember.

Read on Al Khaleej

The full opinion article, “Eid in Sharjah Is a Test of the City’s Identity,” was published by Al Khaleej and authored by Mawaheb Saeed, Co-Founder and Managing Director of YAZ Media.