Sharjah24: His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated on Thursday morning Al Dhaid Fort (ADF), and a number of nearby projects, in the presence Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah,and Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.

During his speech delivered on this occasion, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, affirmed that the Al Dhaid city has authentic historical evidence represented in many archaeological sites that reflect the city’s heritage, as well as the characteristics of the people of the region.


On this occasion, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah congratulated the people of the region for the opening of Al Dhaid Fort, stressing that inaugurating the Fort is part of a large project that will extend to Al Batha, with a number of vital facilities that will be added to complement the historical and tourism infrastructure, representing an addition to accommodate all activities of the people on various occasions, and visitors from all cities and regions.


His Highness also explained the meanings of the word (Al Dhaid), reviewing its multiple synonyms. His Highness also underscored the city’s features, explaining how it was rrigated by water from the nearby surrounded areas.


Upon his arrival, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah began his tour of Al Dhaid Fort by removing the traditional curtain, marking its inauguration. Then, His Highness was welcomed by the folklore bands’ chants, during which His Highness’ efforts and generous grants were lauded. 


After that, His Highness toured the corridors and the pavilions of Al Dhaid Fort, which witnesses the ancient history of the Al Dhaid city. 


The fort, which dates back to 1820 during the reign of Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, ruler of Sharjah at that time, consists of a square-shaped building 32 meters long and 26 meters wide and includes a number of rooms that have been converted into exhibition halls containing a collection of historical exhibits of the city of Al Dhaid and its heritage.


Then, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah opened the market located behind the fort, which was built with an advanced design that takes into account the standards of safety and security, without changing the building’s traditional architectural style.


Then His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah visited Al Shari'a Mosque. After that, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah inaugurated the "Umm Salama Mosque" located on the eastern side of Al Dhaid Fort, which was reconstructed to match its design with the fort and the neighbouring area.


His Highness concluded his tour by opening the western market, which is located on the outskirts of the western square opposite the fort’s main gate, containing 10 shops that targets all visitors of different ages and interests.


The inauguration of Al Dhaid Fort was attended by Sheikh Khaled bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority;Sheikh Mohamed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Statistics and Community Development (DSCD) in Sharjah, His Excellency  Abdullah bin Muhair Al Ketbi, Minister of Federal Supreme Council Affairs, and a number of senior officials, heads of government departments and notables of the region.