Building A Safe Route For Visitors
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi announced a new underground pedestrian tunnel in Sharjah. Speaking on the Direct Line programme, the Ruler of Sharjah confirmed that construction is already underway. The tunnel will link the Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal Mosque directly to the famous Cultural Square. This underground passage will give pedestrians a safe walking route away from busy city traffic. Furthermore, the tunnel will protect the surrounding flowers and landscaped gardens from foot traffic damage. Visitors will soon take photographs around the square without disrupting passing motorists or trampling plants. Sheikh Sultan also highlighted the deep spiritual meaning of the Holy Quran monument at Cultural Square. He noted that the monument symbolizes the Quran as the ultimate guiding reference for Muslims.
Expanding The Comprehensive Arabic Encyclopaedia
During the broadcast, Sheikh Sultan also shared major updates ahead of the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair. Opening on November 4 at Expo Centre Sharjah under the theme *Made of Stories*, the fair will unveil the second instalment of his Comprehensive Arabic Encyclopaedia. This release brings the total number of completed volumes to 130 out of the planned 500. Published over a four-year schedule, the massive reference work covers science, literature, the arts, and historical figures. Around 1,000 specialists in religious sciences and Arabic contributed to the initial 46 volumes last year. Another 300 researchers joined the project this year to document theatre, novels, photography, and painting. Digital integration will allow readers researching poet Ahmed Shawqi to access his critics' books with a single click.
Preserving Historical Records And Promoting Knowledge
The upcoming book fair will also feature a 60-volume collection documenting Portuguese history across the Indian Ocean. Covering regions from Mozambique to Indonesia, the bilingual Arabic and English set includes a 61st glossary volume explaining historical terms. Since October 2025, Sheikh Sultan has woken up daily at 3:00 am to verify these historical manuscripts personally. He also highlighted new educational columns titled *Teaches and Learns* installed across Sharjah's Islamic and Arab Gardens. These pillars offer quick biographies of influential thinkers so parents can easily introduce children to their heritage. Sheikh Sultan concluded by urging young scholars to pursue serious research and act with moral responsibility. Stay connected to the cultural milestones and infrastructure projects shaping the Emirates. Read our daily local coverage at The WAU.
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