Sharjah Ruler Inaugurates Al Estiqlal Square on UAE’s 54th Eid Al Etihad
<p>Sharjah marked the UAE’s <strong>54th Eid Al Etihad</strong> with a major milestone in urban renewal as <strong>His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi</strong>, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, officially inaugurated the newly redeveloped <strong>Al Estiqlal Square</strong>. The project includes a striking Independence Monument, modernised public spaces, enhanced buildings, and upgraded infrastructure — all designed to reflect the emirate’s heritage and national pride.</p><p>The inauguration took place on December 2, aligning with the nation’s annual celebration of its unification on <strong>December 2, 1971</strong>, and honouring the UAE’s journey from independence to becoming a global symbol of progress and unity.</p><h2><strong>A Monument Honouring History and National Identity</strong></h2><p>At the heart of the redeveloped square stands the new <strong>34-metre-high Independence Monument</strong>, crowned with a seven-pointed star symbolising the UAE’s seven emirates. Sheikh Dr Sultan unveiled the monument’s commemorative plaque, marking its completion as a new landmark for Sharjah.</p><p>The monument features <strong>four engraved plaques</strong>, each narrating significant historical moments that shaped the nation:</p><p>The formation of the United Arab Emirates on <strong>December 2, 1971</strong>, following independence from Britain.</p><p>The <strong>151 years of British involvement</strong>, beginning with the treaty signed on January 8, 1820.</p><p>The establishment of the <strong>Sharjah Civil Air Station</strong> on July 22, 1932, and the eventual abolition of the British military base in 1971.</p><p>The creation of the military base on the air station, which contradicted earlier agreements.</p><p>These elements together serve as a powerful reminder of the UAE’s struggle, resilience, and eventual unity.</p><h2><strong>Touring the Square: Fountains, Pathways, and Lighting</strong></h2><p>Following the unveiling, the Ruler of Sharjah toured the upgraded square to inspect a range of new features:</p><p><strong>Elegant fountains</strong> on both sides of the monument, adding movement and beauty</p><p>Redesigned <strong>pedestrian pathways</strong> for improved accessibility</p><p>Expanded <strong>green spaces</strong> enhancing the natural ambience</p><p>A modern <strong>lighting system</strong> that highlights the square’s architecture and landscaping at night</p><p>These enhancements not only beautify the space but create a welcoming environment for residents and visitors. The lighting, in particular, is designed to accentuate the monument and surrounding buildings, providing a visually striking night-time experience.</p><h2><strong>Revitalising Surrounding Buildings with Unified Urban Charm</strong></h2><p>Sheikh Dr Sultan also reviewed the redevelopment of <strong>24 buildings</strong> surrounding Al Estiqlal Square. The project has given each structure enhanced façades, refined architectural details, and a cohesive design appearance that aligns with Sharjah’s cultural identity.</p><p>A total of <strong>95 commercial signboards</strong> were replaced or standardised, ensuring that the visual environment feels harmonious and uncluttered. Modern lighting now highlights building features, creating a uniform urban identity that blends heritage with contemporary design.</p><h2><strong>A Project Focused on Quality of Life and Urban Aesthetics</strong></h2><p>The renewal of Al Estiqlal Square reflects Sharjah’s continuing commitment to elevating quality of life. The redevelopment included improvements to:</p><p>Roads and pavements</p><p>Parking spaces</p><p>Traffic flow</p><p>Safety infrastructure</p><p>Lighting columns and pedestrian areas</p><p>These upgrades support the emirate’s long-term urban development strategy while preserving Sharjah’s rich heritage. They also enhance the everyday experience of residents and tourists, offering a clean, vibrant, and culturally meaningful public space.</p><h2><strong>Restoration of Imam Al Nawawi Mosque</strong></h2><p>Alongside the square’s inauguration, Sheikh Dr Sultan also reopened the <strong>Imam Al Nawawi Mosque</strong>, originally built in 1995 and now restored in the elegant <strong>Fatimid architectural style</strong>. Renovations included:</p><p>Raised minarets and extended exterior walls</p><p>A new external arcade</p><p>Upgraded facilities for worshippers</p><p>The mosque’s restoration enhances its role as both a religious and community landmark near the square.</p><h2><strong>Dignitaries Attend the Ceremony</strong></h2><p>The inauguration ceremony was attended by several senior officials, including:</p><p>Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi</p><p>Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi</p><p>Sheikh Majid bin Sultan Al Qasimi</p><p>Abdulrahman bin Mohammed Al Owais</p><p>Heads of governmental departments and development bodies</p><p>Their presence underscored the significance of the redevelopment and its role in Sharjah’s ongoing urban transformation.</p><p>Al Estiqlal Square now stands as a renewed symbol of Sharjah’s dedication to cultural identity, history, and sustainable development — a landmark befitting the UAE’s 54th Eid Al Etihad and its enduring spirit of unity.</p>