In a significant milestone for child welfare, His Highness Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, officially declared the emirate as a “Child and Family Friendly City.” This achievement marks a vital step in Sharjah’s ongoing efforts to create a safe and inclusive environment for children and their families. The “Child and Family Friendly City” initiative builds upon the earlier “Sharjah Child Friendly City” project launched in 2011, showcasing a commitment to enhancing shared responsibility for family well-being across both public and private sectors.
A Legacy of Child and Family Support
Since the 1950s, Sharjah has been a pioneer in providing services tailored to mothers and children within the UAE. It was the first emirate to establish dedicated programs addressing the needs of these groups. International recognition of Sharjah’s accomplishments came in 2015 when it became the first “Child Friendly Emirate” accredited by UNICEF and the World Health Organization. This was further solidified in 2018 with recognition as the first “Emirate Friendly to Children and Youth” by UNICEF. Sharjah continues to reaffirm its commitment to becoming a “Child Friendly City,” recently renewing its membership in UNICEF’s initiative in November 2025.
Investment in Media Initiatives
In conjunction with this illustrious recognition, His Highness Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi approved a series of major media initiatives in Sharjah Media City, known as “Shams.” This initiative reflects the vision and dedication of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, with supportive follow-up from His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council. This leadership aims to unify and coordinate government media efforts, transitioning them to a more impactful and robust system.
Shams Studios: A New Era in Media Production
His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi emphasized that the launch of “Shams Studios” will significantly enhance the emirate’s ability to attract prominent production companies and content creators. This facility will serve as a professional platform for national talents, allowing them to develop their skills and broaden their presence in the media sector. Sheikh Sultan stated, “Investing in media is investing in people and identity,” reaffirming Sharjah’s unwavering mission to elevate its cultural and intellectual standing globally through responsible media and strategic partnerships.
A Hub for Media Excellence
The project will establish the largest unified government media hub in the UAE and the region, consisting of the Sharjah Media Council, the Sharjah Government Media Office, and the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, all housed within “Shams.” This development includes the construction of cutting-edge production facilities, featuring five large studios equipped to meet the needs of filmmakers, series creators, and content producers, along with specialized post-production facilities, creating one of the most advanced production environments in the region.