Second phase of Heart of Sharjah is on track – Shurooq
All five phases of the heritage project scheduled to be completed by 2025
Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has announced that progress on the second phase of the ‘Heart of Sharjah’ development, one of the largest heritage and tourism projects in the UAE, is on schedule.
The project is right on schedule, the authority said in a statement released on WAM, with total completion scheduled for 2025. It added that the Heart of Sharjah is being completed in five phases and aims to revitalise historic heritage areas through the renovation of traditional buildings and infrastructure, turning them into tourist destinations and historical attractions for visitors.
As per the predetermined schedule, Shurooq has completed the majority of work for the Heart of Sharjah’s second phase, which includes infrastructure development and the addition of new services and amenities like restaurants, cafes and parking. It also involves the upgrading of the project’s internal courtyards and squares, which will be used as venues for events.
The main feature of the second phase is the development of the ‘natural environments’ area, which features mountainous, rural Bedouin and marine environments that highlight the various traditional lifestyles of the UAE.
“The development work on the second phase of the heritage project is in progress according to the set timetable and with the continuous support of HH Dr Sheikh Sultan, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah,” said Yousif Al Mutawa, manager of Heart of Sharjah.
“The development work on Heart of Sharjah is in full swing and once completed, it will have a major impact on strengthening the position of Sharjah and the UAE on the global tourism and heritage map. It will also contribute significantly to supporting national festivals and events related to the UAE’s important cultural heritage,” he added.
The announcement from Shurooq is planned to coincide with the hosting of two major heritage events in Sharjah, the Sharjah Biennial 2017, which commenced on 10th March and runs until 12th June, and Sharjah Heritage Days, a prominent cultural extravaganza due to take place from 4th – 22nd April.
“Heart of Sharjah, which is under a 15-year development plan, is considered to be of particular historical significance because it reflects Sharjah’s authentic identity and its cultural, social and political heritage. The project has been designed to serve as a link between the emirate’s prestigious past, its flourishing present and its bright future,” Al Mutawa concluded.
