A preliminary investigation into the recent fire at Al Nahda Tower in Sharjah has revealed that the blaze was triggered by an electrical overload. According to Brigadier Sami Al Naqbi, Director-General of Sharjah Civil Defence Authority, the Fire Laboratory’s technical inspection confirmed that a gradual temperature rise in the metal connections and circuits of the building’s transformer led to combustion. The fire quickly spread to nearby flammable materials, worsened by the area being overcrowded beyond its approved capacity.
The tragic incident claimed five lives and left 19 others injured.
Brigadier Al Naqbi stressed the importance of proper evacuation during emergencies, especially in high-rise buildings. He urged residents to avoid elevators and instead use staircases, the safest and officially designated escape routes. He also acknowledged the proactive safety measures previously issued by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, crediting them with preventing further escalation. 
Following the incident, a specialised investigation committee is being formed to review building licences and legal approvals. Violations, if found, will result in legal action.
Engineer Khalifa Bin Hadda Al Suwaidi, Director of Technical Services at Sharjah Municipality, reported that the fire did not extend beyond the affected apartment or surrounding buildings. Thanks to fire-resistant materials used in a recent facade upgrade completed on February 17, 2025, the damage was minimal. Al Suwaidi noted that the updated cladding, now composed of non-flammable materials, played a critical role in containing the fire and avoiding catastrophic losses.
Without this upgrade, damage costs were projected to exceed AED 12 million due to the previous facade’s high flammability. Al Suwaidi commended the wisdom of His Highness the Ruler’s directive, which helped save lives and safeguard property.
The incident follows Sharjah’s extensive 2024 building safety inspections, where non-compliant structures faced fines and mandatory upgrades. Authorities continue to emphasize that adhering to safety protocols and investing in fire-resistant infrastructure can dramatically reduce risks in emergencies.
