Shurooq, the Sharjah Development and Investment Authority, held an important meeting to implement the directives of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, after he gave his approval for its comprehensive strategic plan to develop the region’s biggest heritage project - the Heart of Sharjah - in the heritage area.
The Ruler of Sharjah approved the detailed plans and designs of the Heart of Sharjah project, which were presented by Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qassimi, Chairperson of Shurooq, and H.E Marwan Jassim Al Sarkal, Shurooq CEO.
Accordingly, a joint work teams and committees have been set up to start the implementation of the first phase of the project, which is the first fruit of Shurooq’s projects.
The project will be implemented in several phases, including ongoing development works during summer 2010, with the aim of reviving the historic and heritage area, linking them together the way Sharjah was during 1950s and transforming it into a tourist and trade destination with modern contemporary artistic touches.
The joint committee, chaired by H.E Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qassimi, includes members from several government organizations, as Shurooq is responsible for the direct supervision of the development of this project.
Shurooq is to discuss with bodies participating in the committee the support of the work team and speeding up of the required studies and reports in preparation for the implementation of the project and the launch of its foundation works.
The committee mentioned above is composed of representatives from the Ruler’s Office, Sharjah Art Foundation, Sharjah Museums Department, and Heritage Department.
Another committee, comprising members of the key committee, will be set up to implement projects, and will include Sharjah Municipality, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, the Department of Public Works, and the Department of Planning and Survey.
Speaking of the project, H.E Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qassimi said, "All nations hold on to their historic roots and are proud of their creativity and heritage, and our leadership is keen to highlight the UAE’s historic role, in keeping with its prosperity and distinguished human achievements that serve as a source of pride for the nation’s younger generations while moving steadily towards its future." She added that Shurooq is determined to develop the historic area in Sharjah in a way that helps spotlight important stages of the history of the Arabian Gulf region and brings its historic role back into the limelight.
The "Heart of Sharjah" project is expected to provide a chance for the public and private sector to strike a qualitative partnership that helps rebuild the area to preserve its heritage. The project will involve developing ancient houses and transforming them into hotels, restaurants, art galleries and markets while preserving their local historic character.
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