SM: Intensive preparations for Ramadan with proactive plans

The municipality has deployed specialised inspection teams to oversee food sale and distribution outlets and to monitor negative behaviours and visual disturbances affecting the public environment.

Focused monitoring of food establishments

In this context, His Excellency Obaid Saeed Al Tunaiji, Director General of Sharjah Municipality (SM), confirmed that the municipality has completed its preparations for Ramadan with comprehensive plans developed by the relevant departments to monitor certain activities and raise public awareness. Teams have been dedicated to inspecting food establishments and intensifying oversight, given the high demand for such outlets during the month. Ensuring the provision of safe, wholesome, and health-compliant food remains a top priority, alongside raising awareness among staff working in these establishments.

Planned inspection campaigns

Al Tunaiji highlighted that major inspection campaigns will be implemented, including checks on permits for displaying food outside shops, permits for food preparation and sales during daytime hours of Ramadan, as well as targeted campaigns on bakeries, traditional kitchens, and sweet shops.

Monitoring public behaviour and urban appearance

The Director General explained that the municipality has also formed a team to monitor and address negative behaviours and visual disturbances, such as informal markets or street vendors, in coordination with relevant authorities. This initiative aims to maintain urban aesthetics and provide an ideal environment for residents and visitors. Intensive inspection campaigns and visits will be carried out across Sharjah, including oversight of green spaces, popular winter recreational areas, and city beaches, ensuring compliance with regulations and preventing behaviours that could harm public facilities or the environment. Commercial outlets wishing to extend their operating hours beyond midnight must obtain the necessary permits from the Inspection and Monitoring Department.

Parking and public spaces during Ramadan

Al Tunaiji noted that paid public parking will be charged from 8:00 AM to midnight across all areas of Sharjah during Ramadan. Inspection teams from the Public Parking Department will ensure compliance and prevent misuse. Parking near mosques will be free for one hour from the time of the call to prayer to facilitate worshippers, while smart squares will follow their existing operational system, unaffected by Ramadan timings.

Parks, services, and public communication

The municipality confirmed that parks will be open to visitors every day from 4:00 PM to midnight, offering their full range of facilities. The 993 call centre operates around the clock, receiving feedback, reports, and inquiries from the public, which are immediately forwarded to the relevant departments for action. The municipality encouraged residents to contact the centre for any observations, questions, or reports of negative behaviour.