KhalifaSat captures stunning image of Sharjah’s largest mosque from space


Sarwat Nasir
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A stunning image of Sharjah Mosque has been captured from space by KhalifaSat, the first Emirati-built satellite.

On Saturday, Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre released the image on Twitter.

The satellite has captured numerous high-resolution photos of landmarks and well-known locations since it was launched into space onboard a Japanese rocket in 2018.

“The fascinating domes of Sharjah Mosque from space,” MBRSC said on Twitter.

“This photo, taken by KhalifaSat, shows the Sharjah Mosque, which can accommodate more than 25,000 worshippers. The mosque is considered a unique model of Islamic architecture.”

The building opened its doors in 2019 and was inaugurated by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah.

Located in the Al Tay area of the emirate, it was built at a cost of Dh300 million.

It is the largest mosque in Sharjah, covering an area of about 186,000 square metres.

The image by KhalifaSat shows off the building’s unique Ottoman style, plus its huge parking space and large gardens.

Its main hall can accommodate thousands of worshippers, hundreds of women in its dedicated female pavilion and many more people outside.

The mosque is open to non-Muslims and a souvenir shop is now on site.

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What: International friendly

When: 7pm kick off

Where: Rugby Park, Dubai Sports City

Admission: Free

Online: The match will be broadcast live on Dubai Exiles’ Facebook page

UAE squad: Lucas Waddington (Dubai Exiles), Gio Fourie (Exiles), Craig Nutt (Abu Dhabi Harlequins), Phil Brady (Harlequins), Daniel Perry (Dubai Hurricanes), Esekaia Dranibota (Harlequins), Matt Mills (Exiles), Jaen Botes (Exiles), Kristian Stinson (Exiles), Murray Reason (Abu Dhabi Saracens), Dave Knight (Hurricanes), Ross Samson (Jebel Ali Dragons), DuRandt Gerber (Exiles), Saki Naisau (Dragons), Andrew Powell (Hurricanes), Emosi Vacanau (Harlequins), Niko Volavola (Dragons), Matt Richards (Dragons), Luke Stevenson (Harlequins), Josh Ives (Dubai Sports City Eagles), Sean Stevens (Saracens), Thinus Steyn (Exiles)

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The Melbourne Mercer Global Pension Index

The Melbourne Mercer Global Pension Index

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The index highlighted fundamental issues for all 34 countries, such as a rapid ageing population and a low growth / low interest environment putting pressure on expected returns. It also highlighted the increasing popularity around the world of defined contribution schemes.

“Average life expectancy has been increasing by about three years every 10 years. Someone born in 1947 is expected to live until 85 whereas someone born in 2007 is expected to live to 103,” Mr Abukhater told the Mena Pensions Conference.

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Saudi Arabia came in the middle of Mercer’s ranking with a score of 58.9. The report said the country's index could be raised by improving the minimum level of support for the poorest aged individuals and increasing the labour force participation rate at older ages as life expectancies rise.

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