The number of fatalities from a fire that occurred early Sunday morning in a high-rise building in Sharjah’s Al Nahda area has risen to five. Among the deceased are four unidentified individuals who reportedly fell while trying to escape the flames, along with a Pakistani man in his forties who succumbed to cardiac arrest, believed to have been caused by the trauma of the incident.
The blaze, which started on the 44th floor of the residential tower, resulted in six other individuals sustaining serious injuries, with one person suffering from smoke inhalation. Those injured are currently receiving care at Al Qassimi Hospital, where their condition is being described as stable.
Despite a swift response from emergency services, four people tragically fell to their deaths while attempting to escape. Their bodies were discovered completely charred. Officials confirmed that the Pakistani victim did not suffer from burn injuries but collapsed due to the shock of the situation.
The Sharjah Civil Defence reported the fire at 11:30 am, prompting firefighting teams from several stations to rush to the scene. They worked to evacuate residents and managed to bring the blaze under control.
By 7 pm, the cooling operations were concluded, and the site was handed over to police for further investigation. The cause of the fire is still undetermined, and a thorough inquiry is underway.
Thick smoke was visible billowing from the structure as authorities cordoned off the area to maintain public safety.
When reporters visited the scene on Sunday, evacuated residents were waiting for permission to re-enter their homes. Many were seen outside, awaiting clearance from officials.
Residents were eventually allowed back into their apartments later that evening; however, access to floors above the 30th level will remain restricted until safety inspections are completed.
Officials have stated that temporary housing will be provided for families unable to return to their residences. Further updates will be released after the site is secured and damage assessments can take place.
Eyewitnesses observed that the fire started on the top two floors of the building, which is situated opposite Sahara Centre and is one of the tallest buildings in the emirate.
“We could see the officials responding quickly and managing the evacuation process. Tenants were waiting in nearby cafes and restaurants to return to their unaffected homes. I hope they can go back soon,” said a café owner located a short distance from the building.
A shopkeeper noted that several families reside in the tower.
Traffic diversions are still in effect around the building to enhance emergency response efforts and ensure the safety of the public.
Additionally, another fire incident was reported on the same day at a fruits and vegetables warehouse in Sharjah’s industrial area 15. The civil defence officials confirmed that the fire was brought under control.