The number of fatalities from a fire that ignited early Sunday in a high-rise building in the Al Nahda district of Sharjah has risen to five. Among the deceased are four unidentified individuals who reportedly fell while trying to escape the flames. Additionally, a Pakistani man in his forties succumbed to cardiac arrest, likely induced by the trauma of the situation.
The blaze started on the 44th floor of the residential tower, leaving six others with serious injuries and one resident suffering from smoke inhalation. Those injured are currently being treated at Al Qassimi Hospital, where their conditions are considered stable.
Despite the swift actions of emergency responders, four individuals lost their lives after falling from the building while fleeing the fire. Their remains were discovered completely charred. Authorities confirmed that the Pakistani individual did not sustain burn injuries but collapsed due to the stress of the incident.
The Sharjah Civil Defence reported that the fire occurred at approximately 11:30 AM. Firefighting teams from multiple stations arrived quickly, evacuated residents, and managed to bring the fire under control.
By 7 PM, cooling efforts were concluded and the site was handed over to law enforcement for further inquiries. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined, and an investigation has commenced to uncover the details.
Black smoke was seen rising from the structure as officials cordoned off the area to protect public safety.
During a visit to the scene on Sunday, tenants who had been evacuated awaited permission to return to their homes. Some were seen outside, looking for clearance from officials to re-enter.
Residents were gradually permitted to go back to their apartments later that evening; however, access to levels above the 30th floor will remain restricted until safety assessments are finalized.
Authorities pledged to provide temporary housing for families who cannot return to their residences. Further updates will follow once the site is secured and investigators assess the damage.
Witnesses indicated that the fire broke out on the top two floors of the building, which is situated across from Sahara Centre, making it one of the tallest structures in the emirate.
A café owner nearby remarked on the efficient evacuation efforts by officials. “Tenants were waiting in nearby cafes and restaurants to return to their unaffected homes. I hope they can get back soon,” he stated.
A local shopkeeper noted that several families reside in the tower.
Traffic diversions are still in effect around the building to support emergency response actions and ensure the safety of the public.
Another fire incident occurred on the same day at a fruits and vegetables warehouse in Sharjah’s industrial area 15. It was successfully brought under control, according to the emirate’s civil defence authority.