Sharjah Consultative Council hosts Harvard delegation

Official reception

The delegation was received yesterday afternoon by Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council (SCC), alongside Halima Al Owais, Vice Chairperson of the Sharjah Consultative Council (SCC), and Her Excellency Meera Khalifa Al Muqarrab, Secretary General of the Council, in the presence of Her Excellency Dr Fatima Khalifa Al Muqarrab, a member of the Council.

The visit reflects the Council’s commitment to openness towards leading global academic institutions and to familiarising researchers with Sharjah’s parliamentary model. It also supports knowledge-based dialogue and the exchange of legislative and developmental expertise, in coordination with the Sharjah Government Relations Department.

Overview of the parliamentary model

Dr Al Nuaimi welcomed the delegation, highlighting the importance of academic visits in showcasing Sharjah’s legislative institutions and their role in community participation and institutional integration, under the vision and support of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

During the meeting, the delegation was given a comprehensive overview of the Council’s role as a parliamentary body linking society with the executive authority. Her Excellency Halima Hamid Al Owais outlined the Council’s structure, session procedures, committee work, and the role of members in discussing draft laws, public policies, and overseeing government departments.

Key policy areas and development priorities

Briefings also covered major issues addressed by the Council, including economic, educational, public services and infrastructure matters, alongside ongoing development efforts in Sharjah aimed at achieving balanced and sustainable growth.

Her Excellency Meera Khalifa Al Muqarrab explained the Council’s administrative and organisational processes, including session preparation, coordination mechanisms, documentation procedures, and support provided to members. Dr Fatima Khalifa Al Muqarrab shared insights into the experience of Council membership, the submission of parliamentary questions, and the importance of engaging with the community to reflect public concerns in decision-making.

Tour and student engagement

The Harvard delegation toured the Council’s facilities, including the main chamber and committee meeting rooms, and learned about session procedures and documentation systems. The students showed strong engagement, raising questions about Sharjah’s parliamentary system and community participation, and expressed appreciation for the warm reception and the advanced institutional model they observed.