Over 1,500 residents affected by the Sharjah tower fire

Sharjah: A devastating fire which broke out through the top floor of the 52-storey residential tower in Sharjah on Sunday affected more than 1,500 residents and resulted in five fatalities and 19 injuries, Sharjah Police confirmed on Tuesday.

According to the police handout, the fire broke out at approximately 11:30am, when Sharjah Police received an emergency call reporting flames coming from an upper-floor apartment. Swift coordination between Sharjah Police, the Sharjah Civil Defence, and National Ambulance ensured a rapid evacuation of the building, but tragically, lives were lost, and dozens of residents sustained injuries.

Back in building

The tower, home to a diverse mix of more than 1,500 residents, was a hub for families and professionals from various nationalities. In the aftermath of the fire, many of these individuals have been displaced, left without their homes and belongings. However, they all have been allowed to go back to building while those whose apartments were destroyed due to the fire, have reportedly been given other apartments in the same building.

Brigadier General Dr Ahmed Saeed Al-Naour, Director General of Operations and Security Support, expressed his condolences to the victims’ families. “This is a tragic day for all those affected. Our priority has been the safety of residents, and we will continue to support the community as they recover from this tragedy,” he added.

Investigation underway

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with Sharjah Police’s forensic teams conducting thorough inspections of the building. Authorities are working closely with the Civil Defense and other relevant agencies to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

In addition to emergency responders, humanitarian organisations, including the Emirates Red Crescent, are offering support to the displaced residents, providing shelter, food, and essential supplies as they begin the difficult process of rebuilding their lives.