A Symbolic Design
At the heart of the square stands the Union Monument, featuring seven intricately crafted shells, each cradling a pearl that symbolises one of the UAE’s seven emirates. These shells converge in an elegant column crowned with a golden pearl, representing unity and rising to an impressive height of 52 metres. The monument is surrounded by a reflective water basin and lush green lawns bordered by an 85-centimetre-high natural hedge. Palm trees and a variety of flowering shrubs adorn the park, creating a tranquil and inviting space equipped with seating areas and unique lampposts, adding a charming ambience for nighttime visitors.
A Fountain of Unity
The water fountain, designed in the form of a seven-petalled flower, mirrors the symbolism of the monument. Each petal holds a shell with a pearl, seamlessly joining to form a central column topped by the golden pearl of union. Water gracefully cascades from each pearl, complemented by a network of blue-lit fountains. Seven smaller fountains emerge from the monument itself, while others flow into the basin, accompanied by a dynamic waterfall illuminated with white lighting.
Advanced Engineering for an Enriched Experience
The square features state-of-the-art engineering and lighting systems, enhancing its visual appeal. A cybernetic geyser fountain with seven vertical jets reaches heights of 8 metres in the upper reservoir, while jets in the lower reservoir rise to 3.5 metres. Giant arched fountains create a harmonious decorative effect, complemented by smaller arched fountains feeding into cascading waterfalls. LED lights, resistant to environmental factors, create dynamic colour effects, illuminating 21 spots around the geysers, 28 for the giant fountains, and 42 for the waterfalls. Additionally, a 175-metre LED strip highlights the external walls of the water basins.
Seven waterfalls with a flow capacity of 75 cubic metres per hour, along with seven controllable artificial mist features, further add to the visual drama. The lighting design also includes 42 spotlights to emphasise the monument’s intricate details, 21 additional lights for the central column, and a total of 343 lights supporting 182 water nozzles and 30 pumps.
Sustainable Materials and Modern Craftsmanship
Constructed with precision, the project utilised a diverse range of materials:
- Concrete: 814 cubic metres of standard and 140 cubic metres of fine concrete.
- Steel: 95 tonnes of structural steel.
- Base Layers: 854 cubic metres of road base.
- Tiling: 2,506 cubic metres of tiles and 1,575 square metres of mosaic tiles.
- Waterproofing: 4,050 square metres.
- Paint and Plaster: 450 square metres.
- Polyethylene Sheets: 2,415 square metres.
This combination of modern engineering and artistic design ensures the monument aligns with Sharjah’s vision of balancing innovation with cultural identity. The Union Square Monument and Fountain now stands as a prominent destination for residents and visitors, reflecting the emirate’s dedication to sustainability and creative development.