Sharjah Becomes the First Arab City to Join WHO Global Age-Friendly Network

Sharjah Achieves Historic WHO Age-Friendly Status

The Emirate of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates has made history by becoming the first Arab city to earn the esteemed status of "Advanced Affiliate" within the World Health Organization's Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities. This accomplishment not only marks a significant milestone for Sharjah but also highlights its deep commitment to the welfare of its senior population and the broader community as a whole.

Achieving this status reaffirms Sharjah's vision of creating an inclusive environment that actively supports individuals of all ages. The city's transition from a basic to an advanced level of affiliate membership demonstrates its dedication to implementing the World Health Organization's (WHO) standards effectively. This also positions Sharjah as a benchmark and a trusted source of guidance for countries striving to develop age-friendly initiatives.

In a statement, Maryam Majid Al Shamsi, the Director of the Sharjah Social Services Department, emphasized that this recognition reflects the humanitarian vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. For decades, Sharjah has cultivated comprehensive initiatives aimed at ensuring dignity and active participation for senior citizens in their communities.

The journey towards this laudable achievement began when Sharjah joined the global network in 2016. Asma Al Khudari, Director of the Sharjah Age-Friendly City Office, stated that this alliance allowed the emirate to design integrated action plans and distinctive programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life for older adults. The recent elevation to Advanced Affiliate status sends a clear message of Sharjah's resolve to adhere to international standards, while also broadening its engagement in global discussions and increasing its international prestige.

Moreover, Sharjah's proactive approach has led to fruitful exchanges with neighboring countries, such as Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, sharing best practices in social policy that support older citizens. This collaboration solidifies Sharjah's position as a regional leader in advocating for frameworks that are beneficial to the elderly, reinforcing the idea that age-friendly practices can be employed effectively across different contexts and cultures.

The recognition by WHO opens avenues for global partnerships and collaborations, further enhancing Sharjah's reputation as a pioneering city dedicated to promoting age-friendly environments. Beyond a mere title, this status signifies a commitment to fostering social inclusivity and leveraging resources to address the challenges faced by the elderly.

The commitment of Sharjah does not merely encompass a series of projects; it embodies a holistic change in social structures and policies that elevate human welfare to the forefront of urban planning. This initiative serves as a reminder that the well-being of senior citizens is an essential pillar for building a cohesive and thriving community.

In conclusion, Sharjah's achievement paves the way for other cities within the region and globally to prioritize and implement strategies that enrich the lives of their aging populations. With this new status, Sharjah is poised to not only continue its legacy of human-centered development but also to inspire a broader movement towards age-friendly cities worldwide.