The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has commenced the second phase of the Flag Island development, which aims to turn the island into a new tourist destination that offers a varied facilities and amenities. The new facilities will be open to public in the first quarter of 2015.

Upon completion of the second phase, the island will feature varied recreational facilities and amenities, including an open-air 1,000-seat amphitheater, an art gallery, and a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes through which Shurooq is keen to provide a vibrant and alluring destination that caters to the needs and preferences of surrounding residents and visitors, alike. The island is located at a walking distance from the downtown and from the most visited places by residents and tourists throughout the year.

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al-Qasimi, chairperson of Shurooq, stated that the launch of the works on the second phase of the Flag Island development comes in response to the directives of Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi, member of the Supreme Council and ruler of Sharjah, and in line with Shurooq’s commitment to go forward in developing new projects and managing the existing destinations in Sharjah to serve the interests of citizens and residents, alike, and to boost the Emirate and the UAE’s position as a destination of choice for residents and tourists.

Sheikh Khalid bin Saqr Al-Qasimi, chairman of the Department of Public Works, said that the department is willing to be involved in development of the leisure and tourist destinations, developed by Shurooq and other government entities in the emirate, with the aim of keeping pace with the social and economic development in Sharjah, provided that commitment to highlight the national and Islamic identity is embodied in these projects.

The open amphitheater at the Flag Island can accommodate 200 spectators, with an additional capacity of up to 1,000 spectators on national, social, cultural and art days and celebrations. The island will be in position to host such activities and to provide fully equipped venues, including an art gallery.

Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi opened Flag Island in December 2012 during the celebrations of the UAE’s 41st National Day. The island is being developed by Shurooq in collaboration with Sharjah Department of Public Works and a number of government bodies and departments.