Sharjah: Construction work for a Dh120-million amphitheatre project is under way at Al Majaz Island.
The Sharjah Media Centre (SMD) announced that the open theatre will serve as a venue to stage a host of activities for the Sharjah Capital of Islamic Culture 2014 celebrations as well as global events.
The cultural capital logo was launched at a special ceremony held at the waterfront on Sunday.
International events
Considered the official venue for the celebrations, the Al Majaz Island project, which will cost an estimate of Dh140 million, will house the huge Roman-style amphitheatre, covering 7,238 square metres that can accommodate up to 4,500 people.
The amphitheatre will host international cultural and art events. There will also be conference rooms, galleries, shops and green areas. With construction under way, the amphitheatre is set to open in the first week of March.
Shaikh Sultan Bin Ahmad Al Qasimi, Head of Sharjah Islamic Culture Capital Executive Committee, revealed during the launch that the Al Majaz Island project was the first of 24 heritage, tourism, cultural and architectural projects to be carried out in 2014.
“These projects are poised to contribute to the world’s intellectual patrimony by boosting cultural development and giving prominence to Islamic culture,” said Shaikh Sultan.
The Al Majaz Island project will also include a Dh13 million bridge between the island and Khalid Lagoon Street. The Islamic cultural capital title was approved by the ministers of culture of Islamic countries and the Islamic Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation.
