Coronavirus: Sharjah Ruler cuts utility bills for three months

Move is being made to support public during challenging times

Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, speaks during a meeting with the Sharjah Consultative Council. Wam
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The Ruler of Sharjah has ordered utility bills in the emirate to be cut by 10 per cent for three months to ease pressure on residents amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The decree by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi will wipe out more than Dh230 million of payments over the discounted period.

Sheikh Dr Sultan said the move was in line with efforts to provide stability to the public during challenging times caused by the spread of the pandemic, which has had a wide-ranging impact on day-to-day life across the Emirates.

Dr Rashid Al Leem, chairman of Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority, thanked Sheikh Dr Sultan for his humanitarian gesture.

Earlier this month, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, announced a 10 per cent reduction in water and electricity bills for citizens, expatriate residents and businesses would be brought in for three months.

The reduction was to cut living and operating costs as part of a Dh1.5 billion stimulus package aimed at offsetting the impact of the virus.

“The world is going through difficult times but we have the capability to navigate challenges successfully,” Sheikh Hamdan said.

Abu Dhabi also said it would reduce utility bills and waive road toll charges for the rest of the year as part of a major support package for businesses and people.