A new UAE landmark symbolising national pride, in the form of a massive flagpole, was inaugurated in Sharjah on National Day on Sunday by His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council member and Ruler of Sharjah. The 123 metre flagpole development, touted as the world’s seventh tallest, was officially opened on the new Flag Island destination opposite the old Al Jazeera Park.

Feelings of patriotism ran high as live TV coverage of the ceremony showed a giant UAE flag being raised to the apex in the presence of Shaikh Sultan and other top government officials and VIP guests.

It took 11 minutes for the flag to reach its final hoisted position at the flagstaff’s top.

41 Sharjah Police officers and 41 UAE military personnel (their number was selected to reflect 41 years of UAE independence) took part in the flag-raising ceremony after the Sharjah Ruler activated an e-button for its launch.
A number of onlookers and seafarers waving UAE flags gathered nearby.

The idea for Flag Island was submitted by Mudhir Al Mezka, a resident who had called in during a popular live programme – Al Khat Al Mubasher – that often sees Shaikh Sultan address callers. Shaikh Sultan honoured Al Mezka during the event. Meanwhile, Shaikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) presented the Sharjah Ruler a gift containing flagpole memorabilia. Shurooq in collaboration with the Sharjah Department of Public Works and other government bodies started work on the project just weeks before National Day.

Plans for similar flagpoles have been initiated in the northern emirates as part of renewed government enthusiasm to promote symbols of national unity and pride. The Sharjah flagpole is of the same height as the one in Abu Dhabi. A slightly shorter flagpole is also installed in the Union House in Dubai.
The race against time to erect the newest one in Sharjah was taken on by Trident Support, which has constructed the world’s tallest free-standing flagpole in Tajikistan. Flag Island is located opposite the area previously known as Montazah Al Jazeera, facing the line of government buildings along the creek extending from Khalid Lagoon.

The flagpole is designed to be the centrepiece of a tourist attraction that will eventually include an open amphitheatre, art gallery, shops, restaurants and cafes. A design symbolising the unity of the seven emirates is located at the flag’s base.
Afterwards, the road along Mamzar lagoon was bumper-to-bumper with a National Day parade led by police marshalls and joined by well-wishers.