In line with its commitment to social and humanitarian initiatives, the management of the Flag Island, one of Sharjah’s premier tourist destinations, spent the day interacting and distributing gifts to workers at Al Bait Hotel at the Heart of Sharjah, the Bu Tinah Firehouse, the Flag Island, as well as patients in Al Qasimi Hospital,

The volunteers stayed from 11am to Iftar time at 7pm as part of the ‘Let's Draw a Smile and Spread Happiness’ initiative to underscore the values of kindness and consideration between all segments of society in Sharjah.

The initiative is one of many government and community events taking place across the UAE to celebrate Zayed Humanitarian Day, which coincides with Ramadan 19th each year, when the nation honours the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founder of the UAE. It also aligns with the ‘Year of Giving 2017’, which emphasises the value of generosity and selflessness, and reinforces the spirit of volunteering among all segments of society, including new generations.

“Our participation in Zayed Humanitarian Day, through the ‘Let's Draw a Smile and Spread Happiness’ initiative, shows our belief in charity and the important role it plays in elevating the community, and spreading messages of goodness, solidarity, compassion and goodwill among its members,” said Khulood Al Junaibi, Manager of the Flag Island.   

“We wanted to reach out to different segments of the community who are in need of financial and moral support and I believe that we were able to draw a smile on the faces of our brothers and sisters, and delivered our message to them that they are not alone,” she added.

Ali Al Suwaidi, Director of Souq Al Jubail, commented that the market’s participation in this annual initiative is part of its commitment to advocate the importance of human compassion and community solidarity towards aiding the underprivileged.

Al Suwaidi added, “The late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s humanitarian legacy inspired and enabled all members of society, especially the underprivileged. The prudent leadership has taken inspiration from the Founding Father in this generous initiative by providing support to this group for all of their essential needs.”

The ‘Let's Draw a Smile and Spread Happiness’ initiative is sponsored by Patchi, Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre (JRCC), Sharjah Ladies Club (SLC), Souq Al Jubail and Khutwa Media Production (Khutwa).

Launched in 2012, the Flag Island is famed for having the world’s seventh tallest flagpole. The island features different recreational facilities, including a 1,000-seat open-air amphitheatre, the 1971 Design Space and a restaurant among others. The flagpole has a 30 x 15 metre UAE flag, surrounded by seven lights on seven poles representing the seven emirates of the UAE.