Post by : Badri Ariffin

On Tuesday morning, Sharjah marked a significant occasion when His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, officially opened the newly redeveloped Independence Square. This inauguration coincides with the UAE’s 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations, giving the event a profound national resonance.

A highlight of the project is the 34-meter tall Independence Monument, which His Highness unveiled by removing the commemorative plaque. This impressive structure, topped with a seven-pointed star symbolizing the seven emirates, now stands as a prominent urban feature commemorating the UAE’s journey to independence.

Key historical records adorn all four sides of the monument. One plaque commemorates the Rulers' agreement to form the United Arab Emirates on December 2, 1971, while another recounts the 151 years of British rule that began with the treaty of January 8, 1820. Additional plaques celebrate the opening of the Sharjah Civil Air Station in 1932 and a British military base, highlighting a complex historical relationship.

After the unveiling, His Highness toured the square to assess the newly added features, including two fountains flanking the monument, redesigned pathways, expanded greenery, and a modern lighting system that enhances the square's aesthetics after sunset.

The redevelopment also embraced the surrounding area, enhancing 24 building facades with designs that reflect Sharjah's identity. Alongside, 95 commercial signboards were upgraded to unify the urban environment, complemented by newly installed lighting to enrich the locality's appeal.

Infrastructure upgrades were a key aspect of the initiative, focusing on improving roads, pavements, and parking areas to streamline traffic and bolster pedestrian safety, with all lighting columns around the square replaced as part of the upgrades.

The revitalization of Independence Square aligns with Sharjah’s larger objectives to enhance the urban landscape, raise the quality of life, and maintain its cultural and architectural uniqueness.

In addition to the square, His Highness also reopened the Imam Al-Nawawi Mosque, located in proximity. Originally established in 1995, the mosque has been renovated in the Fatimid architectural style. His Highness unveiled the reopening plaque and performed prayers within. The renovations included extending the height of the minarets and walls, adding an external arcade, and enhancing the internal facilities to bolster its function within the community.

Sheikh Dr Sultan was joined by senior officials, including Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Sheikh Majid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Abdulrahman bin Mohammed Al Owais, along with other dignitaries.

This inauguration represents another step forward in Sharjah’s ongoing pledge to thoughtful urban growth and the maintenance of its national heritage.

#Global News