How Sharjah cut rental process from multiple visits to minutes
For Sharjah residents, moving into a new home no longer requires visiting multiple government departments. A digital integration among utilities, municipalities, and real estate agencies has streamlined procedures and delivered significant savings for both the government and the public.
Between 2022 and 2024, the unified digital system connecting the 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 bodies.
Residents have also benefited directly, saving Dh1 million and 79,000 hours through efficient digital workflows. The plan allows users to achieve entire service processes, such as shifting into a new home, through a single online platform. What once required multiple office visits can now be accomplished in minutes.
Connected, Seamless, and People-Centered Services
In an interview with Khaleej Times, Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of the Sharjah Digital Department (SDD), said the future of public services in the emirate will be
“defined by integration and simplicity, where every experience is connected, seamless, and centred around people.”
Digital Projects Showcased at GITEX Global 2025
In a separate interview, Lamia Al Hussan Al Shamsi, Director of the department, shared that SDD is presenting several digital initiatives at GITEX Global 2025.
Key highlights include:
- Digital Sharjah – A comprehensive platform that brings together more than 70 government services under a single digital gateway.
- DS Assistant – An AI-driven chatbot that offers instant voice and text-based assistance to users.
- Mada Rainfall Monitoring System – A GIS-enabled solution designed to monitor rainfall patterns and pinpoint impacted areas, supporting better urban planning and public safety.
- Aqari Platform – An integrated real estate ecosystem connecting 19 organizations to streamline property transactions and promote transparency.
Al Shamsi said:
“Whether it’s paying bills, registering a business, or verifying rental contracts, all services are available securely and around the clock. This not only saves time and effort but also supports sustainability by reducing travel, paperwork, and resource consumption.”
Impact of the Aqari Platform
Within just six months, the Aqari Platform handled over 2,000 transactions entirely online, registering 42,000 real estate units and 1,300 buildings without requiring physical visits.
Currently, 12 government service centres operate fully through the platform, streamlining property transactions and enhancing investor confidence.
Sharjah’s Smart Governance Vision
Looking to the future, Sheikh Saud bin Sultan said that Sharjah’s digital transformation strategy aligns closely with national objectives:
“We work closely with federal and local entities to exchange knowledge, align frameworks, and co-develop solutions that serve national priorities,” Sheikh Saud said. “This cooperation enhances national integration, efficiency, and readiness for the future.”
Artificial intelligence and data analytics are also key to shaping Sharjah’s smart city future.
“In Sharjah, we harness these capabilities to make urban life safer, more sustainable, and more responsive to people’s needs,” Sheikh Saud said. “Our goal is not automation for its own sake, but progress with purpose — using innovation to enhance well-being, strengthen community trust, and ensure that every advancement ultimately serves people.”
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