Sharjah has achieved a remarkable milestone in public safety, with 99.7 per cent of residents reporting they feel safe across the emirate, according to the latest 2024 data released by Sharjah Police.

Major General Abdullah Mubarak bin Amer, Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police, announced the results, highlighting the community’s growing trust and satisfaction with the emirate’s security efforts. Public confidence in Sharjah Police now stands at 97 per cent

, reflecting strong institutional performance and community engagement.

Key findings from the report:

• 99.7% feel safe during the day
• 99.3% feel safe at home at night
• 99.3% feel safe in public areas at night
• 98.6% feel safe walking alone at night
• 98.9% feel safe on the road, whether driving or using public transport
• 96.7% trust their local police station

Major General bin Amer credited the achievement to the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, whose support has been instrumental in enhancing the emirate’s safety and quality of life.

He thanked the Executive and Consultative Councils of Sharjah and praised the Department of Statistics and Community Development for its scientific approach in collecting public safety data.

According to Brigadier General Omar Ahmed Boualzoud, Director-General of Criminal Security and Ports, the impressive safety figures reflect the effectiveness of the Sharjah Police’s advanced preventive strategies, which prioritise public well-being at the heart of all operations.

Officials stressed that this success is not just a result of internal policing efforts but also the active cooperation of the public, which continues to play a vital role in maintaining safety and community harmony in Sharjah.

The UAE has officially denied rumours that digital currency investors are eligible for the country’s coveted Golden Visa.

In a joint statement, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), and Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) clarified that cryptocurrency investments do not qualify for Golden Visa residency.

The ICP stressed that Golden Visas are granted under specific, approved criteria, including real estate investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, scientists, top students, frontline workers, and humanitarian pioneers, but not digital asset holders.

The SCA reaffirmed its commitment to globally recognised regulatory standards and investor transparency. It noted that while virtual assets are regulated in the UAE, they are entirely separate from visa eligibility processes.

Meanwhile, VARA urged the public to steer clear of false claims and only engage with licensed and regulated virtual asset service providers. It also clarified that TON, a company mentioned in some of the misleading reports, is not licensed or regulated by VARA.

All three authorities warned against unverified social media posts and websites that spread misinformation. They urged investors and residents to refer only to official UAE government portals for accurate updates.

For official Golden Visa criteria, visit: www.icp.gov.ae

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Dubai’s hidden gems and a haven for birdwatchers, has temporarily closed to make way for a stunning new upgrade, part of a Dh650-million development project set to transform the wetlands into a world-class eco-destination.

More Water, More Wildlife

The first phase of the redevelopment is already underway, with completion expected by the end of next year. It includes a massive 144% expansion of water bodies, boosting their total size to 74 hectares.

Alongside this, 10 hectares of new mudflats will be added, essential feeding grounds for migratory birds, supporting marine biodiversity and rare plant life.

Nature Gets a Boost

Phase two will focus on enhancing native vegetation and creating improved wildlife habitats to attract even more bird species. Visitor facilities are also set for an upgrade, giving nature lovers a better, more immersive experience.

The sanctuary is already known for its iconic pink flamingos in winter, as well as osprey, grey herons, and black-winged stilts. The reserve is fully fenced, offering safety for wildlife and serenity for guests.

Eco-Friendly Vision

Once complete, the new sanctuary is expected to increase carbon dioxide absorption by 60 per cent, giving a powerful green boost to Dubai’s environment.