SHARJAH // Lifeguard patrols and a rescue centre are being set up at Al Khan beach as part of efforts to improve the safety of swimmers.
The move was announced by Sharjah Police following a string of drownings.
The stretch of beach is one of the most popular in the emirate and lined with dozens of hotels that attract thousands of tourists each year.
But it is also one of the most dangerous places for swimmers, with dozens of drownings reported annually, particularly during peak season.
It is hoped that by increasing the presence of lifeguards and other emergency personnel, the beach will be a safer place for residents and visitors.
“The unit would be staffed with police, Civil Defence and Coastguard rescuers all working together for the safety of swimmers,” said Col Omar Al Suwaidi, the director of police stations in Sharjah.
The centre has yet to be approved by authorities and no date has been given to begin operations.
The latest drowning victim at Al Khan was a 75-year-old Armenian woman on September 22.
In June, part of Sharjah’s Corniche was closed after officials deemed it too dangerous for swimmers. “There are high tides and waves sweeping the area all the time that can pull even the best swimmer,” said Captain Rashid bin Sandal, the director general of the Sharjah Police Ambulance and Rescue Unit.
Cases of drowning are attended by Sharjah’s Ambulance and Rescue unit.
Figures for last year show the unit attended 7,339 incidents. These ranged from emergencies in the home (2,818 cases), and 1,135 accidents resulting in injuries at various public events and sporting activities.
ykakande@thenational.ae
Killing of Qassem Suleimani
Living in...
This article is part of a guide on where to live in the UAE. Our reporters will profile some of the country’s most desirable districts, provide an estimate of rental prices and introduce you to some of the residents who call each area home.
Mobile phone packages comparison
Profile
Company name: Marefa Digital
Based: Dubai Multi Commodities Centre
Number of employees: seven
Sector: e-learning
Funding stage: Pre-seed funding of Dh1.5m in 2017 and an initial seed round of Dh2m in 2019
Investors: Friends and family
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Living in...
This article is part of a guide on where to live in the UAE. Our reporters will profile some of the country’s most desirable districts, provide an estimate of rental prices and introduce you to some of the residents who call each area home.
COMPANY PROFILE
Name: HyperSpace
Started: 2020
Founders: Alexander Heller, Rama Allen and Desi Gonzalez
Based: Dubai, UAE
Sector: Entertainment
Number of staff: 210
Investment raised: $75 million from investors including Galaxy Interactive, Riyadh Season, Sega Ventures and Apis Venture Partners
Know before you go
- Jebel Akhdar is a two-hour drive from Muscat airport or a six-hour drive from Dubai. It’s impossible to visit by car unless you have a 4x4. Phone ahead to the hotel to arrange a transfer.
- If you’re driving, make sure your insurance covers Oman.
- By air: Budget airlines Air Arabia, Flydubai and SalamAir offer direct routes to Muscat from the UAE.
- Tourists from the Emirates (UAE nationals not included) must apply for an Omani visa online before arrival at evisa.rop.gov.om. The process typically takes several days.
- Flash floods are probable due to the terrain and a lack of drainage. Always check the weather before venturing into any canyons or other remote areas and identify a plan of escape that includes high ground, shelter and parking where your car won’t be overtaken by sudden downpours.
What can victims do?
Always use only regulated platforms
Stop all transactions and communication on suspicion
Save all evidence (screenshots, chat logs, transaction IDs)
Report to local authorities
Warn others to prevent further harm
Courtesy: Crystal Intelligence
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Groom and Two Brides
Director: Elie Semaan
Starring: Abdullah Boushehri, Laila Abdallah, Lulwa Almulla
Rating: 3/5
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