Sharjah Honours Late Leader with Mourning

Mourning in Sharjah: Three-Day National Mourning Declared

The Emirate of Sharjah has been plunged into deep mourning following the death of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Khalid bin Muhammad Al Qasimi on September 22. The news was officially confirmed by the office of Sharjah's ruler, Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, and a three-day period of mourning was announced in the emirate.

The deceased Sheikh Sultan was a member of the illustrious Al Qasimi family. His father, the late Sheikh Khalid bin Muhammad bin Saqr Al Qasimi, was the ruler of Sharjah from 1965 to 1972. Sheikh Sultan's siblings include the current ruler, Sheikh Dr. Sultan, as well as Sheikh Faisal, and the late Sheikh Muhammad and Sheikh Ahmed.

The funeral prayer is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Tuesday, September 23, in accordance with royal family traditions at the King Faisal Mosque in the heart of Sharjah. Following this, the funeral procession will move to one of the city's largest resting places, the Al Jabil Cemetery, where Sheikh Sultan will be laid to rest.

Condolences will be received by men at the majlis of Sheikh Faisal bin Khalid bin Muhammad Al Qasimi in the Al Rumaila district. Visitors can pay their respects to the bereaved family over the course of three days starting from Tuesday. During this time, flags will be flown at half-mast in official institutions across Sharjah, indicating the mourning period.

The Al Qasimi family holds special reverence in the history of the United Arab Emirates. The ruling dynasty in Sharjah has served the emirate for multiple generations and has been actively involved in shaping the cultural, educational, and religious life of the country. Sheikh Sultan bin Khalid's personality was shaped along these traditional values: his dignified, reserved, and community-building presence was impactful for many.

During the mourning period, several official events are likely to be postponed, and state television and radio will also modify their programming. Religious leaders are asking the public to remember the deceased in their prayers and have expressed their condolences to the ruling family.

During these days of mourning, the city of Sharjah presents a quieter demeanor. Many residents personally knew Sheikh Sultan, whose approachable, humane character and commitment left a lasting impression. On the day of the funeral, many are expected to participate in the events at the King Faisal Mosque and Al Jabil Cemetery to pay their last respects.

Official delegations from other emirates of the United Arab Emirates, including Abu Dhabi and Dubai, are expected to visit to express their condolences to the Al Qasimi family, demonstrating national solidarity and respect for historical dynasties.

The deceased will be remembered by many for his religious dedication, respect for traditions, and loyalty to the community. His life provided an example of how to serve an emirate with dignity without seeking the limelight.

The three-day mourning period will conclude on Thursday, September 26, when official activities are expected to resume as normal. Until then, every resident of Sharjah will pay tribute to the memory of an exceptional family member and leader.

(Source of the article: Announcement from the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.)