While completing a pioneering community initiative, Sahara Centre – the leading family shopping and entertainment destination in the UAE and one of Sharjah’s prominent landmarks – today officially inaugurated the Al Nahda pedestrian overpass. The commuters can now cross the busy Al Nahda road using the walkway and gain direct access into Sahara Centre.
The bridge was installed last month under the supervision and guidance of a team of professional engineers appointed by Sahara Centre. The bridge is accessible by elevators and staircases from both sides. The overpass is built at an estimated cost of AED7 million and has been installed at a height of 6.5 metres and spans 48 metres across the road. The bridge comprises a structural steel frame, equipped with steel deck flooring and a metal panel wall with roof cladding.
Jean Pierre Nammour, Managing Director of Sahara Centre, said: “The new pedestrian bridge is now operational and is a significant step towards providing an easy, safe and convenient option to the residents living in the Al Nahda neighbourhood. The new walkway is a reflection of our commitment to the community and we are pleased to extend easier access to our customers. We are also thankful to various government departments for their support and cooperation in this endeavour.”
Being extremely ecstatic with the opening of the bridge, Mr Venu, a shopper residing in the Al Nahda area, said: “I have recently shifted to Al Nahda and it goes without saying that Sahara Centre is one of the major attractions around this locality. It is an ideal place to shop, relax and hang-out. The pedestrian bridge is like a silver lining on the mall. Shopping is made so much easier and I really appreciate this noble initiative by Sahara Centre.”
Commenting on the opening, Rima Chammas, Marketing Manager, Sahara Centre, said: “The bridge will not only avoid accidents but will also help control traffic congestion during peak hours and over the weekends. People living in the Al Nahda area opposite Sahara Centre can now have easy access to the mall through the pedestrian bridge.”
The walkway bridge is part of Sahara Centre’s expansion plans with the AED4 billion Sahara City project. The Sahara City project will be more than double the size of the current mall and will provide shoppers access to a wide array of retail brands and other amenities within the mall.
In addition the new ongoing project is set to provide a major impetus to Sharjah’s tourism and investments plans.
About Sahara Centre:
Sahara Centre opened in February 2002, becoming Sharjah's leading mall. In addition to its wealth of first-class retail outlets, Sahara features the 70,000 square foot Adventureland, a dynamic children's play zone housing 20 thrilling rides, including the UAE's first indoor roller coaster, a multi-level train and water flume ride; Grand Sahara Cinemas, equipped with state-of-the-art screens for the latest movies in town and a multicultural food court featuring 42 outlets and an intriguing array of international cuisines.
