Al Layyah Canal: Sharjah’s stunning new waterway unveiled
New canal features bridges, promenades, and a vibrant waterfront experience
SHARJAH: His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the Al Layyah Canal in Al Khalidiyah this week.
This marks a significant milestone in the emirate’s urban and maritime development.
The 600-metre canal connects Khalid Lagoon to the Arabian Gulf, enhancing water circulation and boosting marine biodiversity.
Al Layyah Canal
Upon his arrival, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi unveiled a commemorative plaque before attending a special showcase along the canal’s promenade.
Accompanied by His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, he witnessed a series of performances, including a maritime parade, rowing races, a military band, and traditional folk presentations celebrating Sharjah’s rich seafaring heritage.
The Ruler of Sharjah also received a visual presentation detailing the project’s key milestones, execution phases, and future development plans. The Al Layyah Canal aims to enhance water renewal efficiency in Khalid Lagoon, with additional features such as a breakwater, waterfront promenade, pedestrian bridges, and various service facilities.
Coral Reef conservation
As part of the inauguration, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi initiated a coral reef cultivation project within the canal’s breakwater, reinforcing Sharjah’s commitment to marine conservation.
The Coral Reef Cultivation Initiative seeks to create natural habitats, rehabilitate damaged marine environments, and support fish populations.
A model display of coral reefs from Sir Bu Nair Island was presented to the Ruler, showcasing advanced cultivation techniques used to protect marine ecosystems.
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi then toured the canal by boat, observing the waterfront’s newly developed spaces designed for both public recreation and environmental sustainability.
An engineering marvel
The Al Layyah Canal project includes a 330-metre breakwater, featuring a 210-metre coastal rock barrier adjacent to Al Layyah station. Designed to withstand strong waves, the structure ensures safe and sustainable water flow. Dredging operations at the canal entrance were carried out to maintain optimal water circulation, aligning with seabed levels.
The canal’s infrastructure incorporates climate-adaptive designs, addressing rising sea levels with protective rock layers along its walls. A key highlight is the strategic positioning of its outlet near Souq Al Jubail, improving water renewal efficiency and reducing pollution in Khalid Lagoon.
Modern bridges and connectivity
Two major bridges have been constructed over the canal, enhancing connectivity in the area. The first bridge, 88 metres long and 33 metres wide, accommodates three traffic lanes in both directions and pedestrian walkways. The second bridge, located near government buildings, spans 123 metres in length and 26 metres in width, featuring two traffic lanes per direction and a 3.1-metre pedestrian walkway.
The project also includes a walkway linking Al Layyah to Flag Island, complemented by an illuminated path that enhances the area’s visual appeal. His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan walked along this pathway, engaging with engineers and project supervisors before posing for a commemorative group photo.
Cultural and recreational attractions
During his tour, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan observed a commemorative display tracing the project’s inception in 2017. The display featured a handwritten note in which he described the name “Al Layyah” as symbolising the force of colliding waves—an apt reflection of the canal’s dynamic nature.
In the evening, the Ruler performed the Maghrib prayer alongside attendees before witnessing a spectacular illuminated whale display in the canal waters. He also reviewed the newly installed lighting along the canal’s edges, designed to enhance the area’s aesthetic and provide a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Sheikh Khaled bin Abdullah bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority; Sheikh Khalid Bin Isam Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Civil Aviation Department; Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ruler’s Office; Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Statistics and Community Development; Sheikh Majid bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Suburbs and Villages Affairs Department; Abdulrahman bin Mohamed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention, along with several senior officials and dignitaries.
Al Layyah Ramadan Market
Following the inauguration, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi visited the Al Layyah Ramadan Market, a key attraction of the Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2025. Running from 27 February to 3 March, the market features local youth enterprises, food stalls, and family-friendly activities. It aims to support young entrepreneurs by providing a platform to showcase their innovations while contributing to Sharjah’s growing commercial landscape.
The market fosters community engagement through children’s games, social spaces, and cultural activities, creating a vibrant Ramadan atmosphere. His Highness interacted with vendors and attendees, encouraging local businesses and reinforcing the importance of youth-driven economic initiatives.