Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah and Member of the Supreme Council, has announced a series of new projects for the city of Kalba. These initiatives aim to enhance the city’s cultural, environmental, and tourism appeal.
One of the key projects is the ‘Kalba Gate,’ a pathway that will connect the hanging gardens with Al Hefaiyah Lake. This pathway will feature a railing to ensure safety, allowing visitors to enjoy views of the hanging gardens, the lake, and the city of Kalba.
Additionally, a new museum will be established to showcase Kalba’s rich heritage, including its customs, traditions, and folk songs. Surrounding the flood-devastated Khor Kalba Fort, a new park will also be developed.
Sheikh Dr. Sultan also announced an environmental, archaeological, and heritage tourism programme for Kalba. This programme will leverage the city’s natural and historical assets to attract tourists and promote sustainable tourism.
One of the most anticipated projects is a moon-shaped structure located 850 meters above sea level on Jebel Deem, also known as Ghamam (‘above the clouds’). This two-storey project will offer breathtaking views of the mountains, valley, and coast. The first floor will include a restaurant, an open café, and a reading room, while the ground floor will feature viewing platforms, a multipurpose hall, and a prayer room.
In an effort to green the mountains, over 4,500 trees—including olive, pomegranate, grape, and apple—have been planted.
The emirate will also see the construction of a football stadium for Kalba Club at an altitude of 850 feet above sea level to reduce humidity affecting the players, with temperatures expected to be about 10℃ cooler.
Previously, the Sharjah Ruler established the Sharjah Communication Technologies Free Zone in Kalba. This free zone is designed to support entrepreneurs and companies in the tech industry, offering connectivity to regional and international partners. The zone will provide training and growth opportunities to build local expertise and aims to attract investments in Artificial Intelligence, communication technologies, and data centers.
Equal treatment
On Monday, Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi directed the Sharjah Human Resources Department to ensure that government employees who are children of female Emirati citizens receive equal treatment.
This directive applies to all such employees, irrespective of whether they were born before or after their mothers obtained Emirati citizenship.
Announced during the popular ‘Direct Line’ program broadcast on Sharjah Radio and Television, Sheikh Dr. Sultan emphasized the importance of treating these employees like any other citizens within government cadres. This decision aims to promote fairness and inclusivity in Sharjah’s governmental workforce.
By addressing this issue, Sheikh Dr. Sultan continues to reinforce Sharjah’s commitment to equality and support for all its citizens, ensuring that everyone receives the same opportunities and benefits in their professional lives.
