The Sharjah Department of Planning and Survey has begun its compensation payments - totalling AED250 million - to individuals affected by Phase 1 of the 'Heart of Sharjah' project in Al Mareija and Al Shuwaihean. The move comes following the directives of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

Khalid bin Butti, Director of Sharjah Directorate of Town Planning and Survey said that the compensation of those affected by the implementation of the Heart of Sharjah project amounted to AED250 million, for 30 properties with a total area of 136,000 square feet.

"Heart of Sharjah is implemented within the plan of rehabilitation of the urban areas surrounding the historic area, in accordance with social and environmental sustainability standards, to improve the urban level of the area, and its residential environment, and preserve its identity and cultural heritage," he explained.

Bin Butti noted that the total value was determined beyond the market value of the properties, and took into account the cooperation of individuals to carry out project works.