His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, a member of the Supreme Council and the Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated today, Saturday, the heritage market of Kalba, located in the Al Qala’a area on both sides of Sheikh Saeed bin Hamad Al Qasimi Road. The market was revitalized through restoration and development of the surrounding area.
Upon his arrival, His Highness was welcomed by Sheikh Saeed bin Saqr Al Qasimi, the Deputy Chief of His Highness’s Office in Khorfakkan, Sheikh Haitham bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Deputy Chief of His Highness’s Office in Kalba, and several senior officials, department heads, and dignitaries from the region.
His Highness received a detailed explanation of the market’s revitalization process, which included the restoration of the old market, houses, and the ancient mosque, as well as the allocation of various commercial spaces such as restaurants, cafes, perfume shops, and clothing stores.
The project aims to revitalize the heart of the old city through urban renewal while preserving the authenticity, heritage, designs, and architectural elements of the area. Traditional building materials were used to emulate the old architectural style of the region, intending to preserve the heritage, connect the new generation with their past, enhance social cohesion, and foster a sense of belonging to the area.
The heritage market consists of two rows of old shops, totaling 104 commercial outlets, characterized by heritage facades that align with the traditional urban style of the old city center. The market also features a heritage arcade in front of all the shops, with a length of 570 meters, displaying two different styles of wood and gypsum, along with arches with heritage architectural features. The market is divided into two parts, east of Sheikh Saeed bin Hamad Al Qasimi Road with a length of 120 meters, and the second part of the heritage market west of the street with a length of 470 meters.
Opening of Al Jubail Market
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi congratulated the residents of Kalba on the heritage development witnessed by the city, such as the Kalba Heritage Market and Al Jubail Market. His Highness expressed his hope that the developmental projects in the city would benefit the residents and citizens. He commended the efforts of the Fishermen’s Association in Kalba, urging them to intensify their work, meet the demands of fishermen, and preserve this profession by revitalizing the market and supplying it with fresh fish sourced from the city’s fishermen.