As part of its on-schedule development for what is to become one of Sharjah’s world-class beach landmarks for tourists and residents, the Sharjah Urban Planning Council (SUPC), the council in charge of planning and overseeing all urban and infrastructure development projects and initiatives in Sharjah, has announced the opening of the dual carriageway with two south-bound lanes now fully operational and accessible by the public.

The new 3.3 kilometer road will ease commuting within the project’s road networks, and boost new investment opportunities within the area and its surrounding. It has been developed with environmentally friendly lighting and equipped with parking areas along the non-beach side of the Sharjah Beach project.

The Sharjah Beach Project, developed by SUPC in partnership with the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority, is aligned with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council Ruler of Sharjah, for improving Sharjah’s infrastructure which meet the needs of residents and visitors.

The following phases of the project will transform the land at Sharjah Beach into a modern, sustainable, and cultural hub for families and tourists visiting Sharjah. The design envisions delivering world-class quality community amenities overlooking natural landscapes.

Eng. Khalid Al Ali, Secretary General of the Sharjah Urban Planning Council (SUPC) said, “The new dual carriageway is now fully operational for the public where they can enjoy full accessibility through the new Sharjah Beach road, in addition to convenient parking facilities across the entire strip. The Sharjah Beach project, which is being developed under the supervision of Sheikh Khalid bin Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Chairman of SUPC, is part of our mission and vision which is to manage change and growth by optimizing Sharjah’s urban development within its own eco-system. Staying abreast with the timeline, the robust groundwork plays a pivotal role in the development of the next phases.”

He further added: “The next step involves the development of the remaining public realm spaces between the road and the buildings, followed by the development of the public realm from the road to water/sea. The uniqueness of the project’s design will make it one of the most appealing leisure destinations, which will undoubtedly propel Sharjah to realize its goal of attracting more than 10 million tourists to the emirate by 2021.”

Eng. Yusuf Al Suwaiji, Chairman of Sharjah Roads & Transport Authority (SRTA), said: “The completion of the roadworks will pave the way for visitors and tourists to pass through the soon-to-be most iconic and lively landmarks in Sharjah and the UAE. Our partnership with SUPC for the Sharjah Beach Project falls within our commitment to improve and develop infrastructural roadworks across the Emirate.”

He continued: “The Sharjah Beach project will include more than 1,000 parking spaces to accommodate visitors, retail, businesses and facilities on the opposite side of the beach. We have also completed the installation of parking meters on the new road to facilitate smooth traffic in and around the project.”

The Sharjah Beach Project, which was announced in November 2017, will transform the public realm along a 3.3 kilometers stretch from Ajman border to the roundabout adjacent to the Sharjah Ladies Club.

It consists of 200,000 square meters of public space, 6.5 kilometers of promenade areas, five beach areas, approximately 1.5km of seating wall along the beach, five different plazas dedicated to community and artistic events, picnic areas with seating and tables, and fitness areas. The project will also provide all necessary facilities required for visitors such as changing facilities, prayer places, shaded lounges and much more.

Founded in 2006, the SUPC was formed by the virtue of Amiri Decree No. 5 issued by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. The council aims to develop a comprehensive strategy for urban development and infrastructure projects and oversee the preparation, implementation, follow-up and update of the strategic plans of government entities concerned in urban development, infrastructure and environment issues. The council’s strategies follow the best international standards that perfectly align with the Sharjah’s vision to further the overall sustainable development.