His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, called for all of his children, residents and citizens of Sharjah, to remain home, avoid crowds, and use this time to strengthen family ties and read the Holy Quran as it is a great source of inspiration and reassurance, noting that this time shall end soon, by virtue of Almighty Allah.

His Highness also announced a package of several developmental projects in Sharjah as well as governmental initiatives that aim to support the financial situation of people of Sharjah during the current situation.

The developmental projects announced by his Highness the ruler of Sharjah included the reconstruction of worn buildings in Kalba, as a gift from His Highness to the buildings’ owners; establishing a recycling plant in the Elebriddi region, to serve the cities of Khor Fakkan, Kalba, Diba Al hisn, and Al Dhaid; achieving zero waste in Sharjah; and establishing governmental health insurance fund for 101,300 non-insured citizens with annual cost of AED 760 million.

This came during His Highness’ intervention via the Direct Line Programme, broadcast live on Sharjah Radio and Television.

During his intervention, His Highness reassured the people saying, “People like to live in ease and happiness all the time, but Allah Almighty test us from time to time, and this is a test from him”.

His Highness stressed that throughout the history, these hardships are always followed by better times, quoting a verse of the Holy Quran.

“Be sure we shall test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods or lives or the fruits (of your toil), but give glad tidings to those who patiently persevere. Who say, when afflicted with calamity: ‘To Allah We belong, and to Him is our return’. They are those on whom (Descend) blessings from Allah, and Mercy, and they are the ones that receive guidance.” (2:155 – 2157)

His Highness continued stating that Allah Almighty is the Most Merciful and will help us through these hardships. He also lauded the measures taken in the UAE to manage the crisis, unlike some other countries that might have came short in managing the issue.

His Highness stressed that everyone has a role in these critical times and the role of the members of society is to protect their families and loved ones by staying at home.

“It is a great opportunity for some family time,” his Highness added, “I used to ask some parents about their children’s school and grade only to find out that they don’t know due to the busy life they run. Now they are at home teaching their children and making sure that they are safe and sound. Therefore, such hardships might have some good in them as well.”

“We need to get through this crisis with lessons learned. We need to learn the importance of family time, how to not overspend, and how to avoid bad habits. Many people were used to eating unhealthy foods outside, now they cook their meals with their own hands to feed their children healthy better food,” His Highness added.

As for working remotely, His Highness noted that he is working remotely as well, including overseeing several projects throughout the emirate of Sharjah in addition to working on books, academic researches and historical studies.

His Highness concluded the intervention wishing all the best of health and safety.