Sharjah has recently celebrated their first anniversary after being named a Child-Friendly City by UNICEF in 2018.
The Emirate was awarded the title in recognition of its outstanding efforts and accomplishments in the protection and promotion of children’s rights. It was the first city in the Middle East to receive the prestigious title, and the first in the world to win the title after successfully meeting the new international requirements and criteria launched by UNICEF’s global Child Friendly Cities initiative.
Sharjah was named a Baby-Friendly City by the World Health Organization and UNICEF in 2015.
Residents of the Emirates share their thoughts on their child-friendly city.
“I have lived in Sharjah for about 7 years and I really love where I live. It feels like I belong here even though I’m from another country. Sharjah feels like it’s my home.”
Saly Al Shamsi, Grade 7 student at Victoria International School)
“Sharjah is indeed a really good place for families. We have been living here for over 30 years. Whenever we have moved apartments, the neighbours are welcoming and people from other apartments try to get to know you. Our kids get to play freely with other children.”
Mohit Dhakan, father of 2 children.
“Living in Sharjah is a wonderful experience because it provides me with new opportunities like the new performing arts school in Sharjah with its amazing facilities. I also love the fact that it is environmentally friendly; thank you for the recycling bins.”
Jessica Rafferty, 9 years old.
“Sharjah always felt child-friendly, because unlike Dubai there are very small communities and each of those communities have parks. This gives families easy access to parks.”
Shilpa Patel, long time resident of Sharjah and mother of two university going students.
“I love how wherever we go we feel safe and there are a lot of places where we can have fun, like waterparks.”
Abdulrahman Alshaibani, 5 years old.
“Sharjah is the most welcoming, kind, and diverse environment I’ve ever lived in. Living here has always been enjoyable, easy, and extremely fun.”
Edie Corbett, Grade 6 student at Victoria International School.