Violators are warned of strict action
In a symbolic gesture of solidarity with the people of Gaza, Sharjah Police took a decisive stand on December 26, 2023, prohibiting New Year’s Eve celebrations and fireworks displays in Sharjah emirate in the United Arab Emirates.
The General Command of Sharjah Police, announcing via social media, emphasised the importance of this move as a sincere expression of solidarity and human cooperation with the people in the Gaza Strip.
The law enforcement agency urged the public and organisations in Sharjah emirate to adhere to the directive, emphasising that legal action would be taken against any individuals or entities found violating the ruling.
In an official statement, Sharjah Police urged everyone, both institutions and individuals, to cooperate and comply, emphasising that they would take all legal measures against those who violated the instructions.
Al Majaz Waterfront in Sharjah City, a prominent outdoor venue for New Year’s Eve celebrations and other public entertainment activities, has cancelled its annual fireworks display out of respect for the lives lost in the besieged Gaza enclave.
As tensions continue in Gaza, Sharjah Police’s firm stance highlights Sharjah emirate’s commitment to promoting peace and unity. It serves as a poignant reminder of the global impact of conflicts and the importance of expressing solidarity in challenging times.
Sharjah’s decision reflects a broader trend in the GCC and wider Middle East region, where several live events and concerts have been cancelled or postponed in the early weeks of the conflict.
New Year’s Eve celebrations are traditionally held annually between December 31 and January 1 across the globe.
In the Pacific Ocean, Kiribati, Samoa and Tonga are the first places on the planet to see a New Year. American, Baker Island and Howland Island (part of the United States Minor Outlying Islands) are among the last.
Featured image: Majaz Waterfront in Sharjah City has traditionally hosted spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks displays. Image: Arnold Pinto
