Residents of Sharjah can now move into new homes without the hassle of visiting multiple government offices. A digital integration between utilities, municipalities, and real estate authorities has streamlined services, creating savings for both the government and residents.
From 2022 to 2024, the unified digital system connecting Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA), Sharjah City Municipality, the Real Estate Registration Department, and the Department of Town Planning and Survey achieved Dh250 million in savings and reduced over 1.2 million work hours across government entities.
This system also benefits residents directly, saving them Dh1 million and over 79,000 hours through streamlined digital processes. The system allows residents to complete entire service journeys, like moving into a new home, seamlessly through a single digital platform. The rental process, once requiring multiple visits and lengthy procedures, can now be completed in just a few minutes.
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In an interview with Khaleej Times, Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of the Sharjah Digital Department (SDD), stated that the future of government services in Sharjah will be characterized by integration and simplicity, ensuring that every experience is connected, seamless, and people-centric.
Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi
In another interview, Lamia Al Hussan Al Shamsi, Director of the department, highlighted that SDD is showcasing several digital projects at Gitex Global 2025. Key projects include Digital Sharjah, a unified gateway offering over 70 government services via a single app; DS Assistant, an AI-powered chatbot for instant support; the Mada Rainfall Monitoring System, a GIS-based solution for tracking rainfall and identifying affected areas for proactive urban planning and enhanced public safety; and the Aqari Platform, a comprehensive real estate ecosystem connecting 19 entities to automate property transactions and increase transparency.
Lamia Al Hussan Al Shamsi
“From paying bills to registering a business or verifying rental contracts, all services are securely available around the clock. This approach saves time and effort, while supporting sustainability by reducing travel, paperwork, and resource consumption,” Al Shamsi explained.
In just six months, the Aqari Platform processed over 2,000 transactions entirely online, registering 42,000 real estate units and 1,300 buildings without the need for users to visit any government office. Twelve government service centers now operate entirely through the platform, streamlining processes and boosting investor confidence.
Looking forward, Sheikh Saud bin Sultan said that Sharjah’s approach to digital transformation is aligned with broader UAE smart governance goals. “We collaborate with federal and local entities to exchange knowledge, align frameworks, and co-develop solutions that align with national priorities,” Sheikh Saud noted. “This cooperation enhances national integration, efficiency, and future readiness.”
Artificial intelligence and data are increasingly shaping the city’s future. “In Sharjah, we utilize these tools to make urban life safer, more sustainable, and more attuned to people’s needs,” Sheikh Saud emphasized. “Our aim is purposeful progress, leveraging innovation to enhance well-being, build community trust, and ensure every advancement serves the people.”
