Abu dhabi: His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has approved new administrative divisions for Khorfakkan City, which will now include four suburbs: Khorfakkan City, Al Owainat, Al Sih, and Al Sabihiyah. This announcement marks a significant step in the urban planning and development of the area, aiming to enhance the organization and infrastructure of Khorfakkan.
According to Emirates News Agency, alongside the administrative restructuring, Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi revealed plans for the construction of new hospitals in Kalba, Khorfakkan, and Dibba Al Hisn. These hospitals are designed to emulate the University Hospital branch in Al Madam, addressing healthcare demands in the region. The Ruler highlighted the overcrowding issues in existing medical facilities and stated that the Ministry of Health and Prevention has been contacted to meet these needs by increasing resources such as doctors, medicines, and facilities. The Sharjah Health Authority is tasked with preparing plans and studies for these hospitals, expected to take five to six months, with budget solutions already in place.
The Ruler elaborated on the subdivisions within Khorfakkan City, explaining that the Khorfakkan City suburb will extend from Khorfakkan Aqaba to Al Luluyah Aqaba, with plans to cultivate the area with dense, fruit-bearing trees. Further development includes the leveling of mountains in Al Owainat to create new neighborhoods, and the correction of local nomenclature for Al Sih's small mountain, known as 'Shukair.' The new administrative structure aims to facilitate rapid development, mirroring the progress seen in Kalba following similar divisional approvals.
Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi also discussed the future election mechanism for council members of the Khorfakkan City Council, emphasizing the role of neighborhood officials in maintaining communication with him. These officials, ideally mosque imams or individuals known for their community service, will liaise directly with the Ruler to ensure residents' needs are met, fostering religious, cultural, and ethical values within the community.
In concluding remarks, the Ruler addressed scholarship application processes for Emirati students and children of Emirati mothers from Sharjah. Scholarships are available for studies at the new universities in Khorfakkan, Kalba, and Al Dhaid, with eligibility starting from a high school average of 70%. The Ruler expressed a commitment to accommodating exceptional cases, particularly those involving children of martyrs, to ensure they receive educational opportunities in recognition of their familial sacrifices.