Sharjah, UAE – June X, 2024 – In a major fire safety initiative, the Sharjah government has launched a Dh100 million project to upgrade the facades of buildings deemed fire hazards. This first-of-its-kind project in the UAE targets 40 buildings throughout the emirate, replacing their aluminum cladding with fire-resistant materials.
Prioritizing Public Safety
The project underscores the Sharjah government’s commitment to citizen safety. Fire hazards pose a serious threat to lives and property, and this initiative aims to significantly reduce fire risks in older buildings.
“The project aims to protect tenants from the risk of fires,” said Khalifa Al Suwaidi, director of Technical Services at the Sharjah Municipality, in a statement. “It sees aluminium panels removed from the buildings and replaced with fire-safe materials.”
Addressing a Known Risk
The use of aluminum cladding on high-rise buildings has been linked to the rapid spread of fires. Recognizing this danger, the Sharjah Municipality banned its use on such structures in 2016. This project directly addresses buildings constructed before the ban.
Project Scope and Impact
The initial phase focuses on 40 buildings identified as particularly vulnerable. Work on the first five buildings has already begun, with the remaining buildings to be upgraded in the coming months.
While the initial rollout targets a specific number of buildings, the project’s success could pave the way for similar upgrades in other parts of the emirate, further enhancing overall fire safety in Sharjah.
This initiative is the first of its kind in the UAE.
