by Jane O’Neill

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20 Dec 2020

 

Looking spectacular by night – Khorfakkan Amphitheatre

Sharjah’s newest landmark is open.

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Khorfakkan Amphitheatre is at the foot of Al Sayed Mountain facing the Khor Fakkan beach.

The magnificent 190,000-sq.ft. Roman-style amphitheatre was inaugurated by the Ruler of Sharjah, Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, on December 14, 2020.

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It was planned, designed and engineered by Jordan-based firm Dar Al Omran.

The semicircular structure has an imposing stone facade that includes 234 arches and 295 columns and is situated on an elevated hillock affording visitors a spectacular view overlooking the Khorfakkan corniche.

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It can accommodate 3,600 spectators all around the year, thanks to its cooling system.

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An inaugural music concert there will take place on December 31, with leading Arab vocalists, Hussain Al Jassmi and Angham.

Tariq Saeed Allay, director of Sharjah Government Media Bureau, said: “The Khorfakkan Amphitheatre is part of a series of ongoing development projects launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. The artistic and cultural landmark marks a new milestone in the Emirate’s cultural journey.”

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Dar Al Omran said the amphitheater design’s contemporary spirit is an embodiment of the vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, whose dream was to reflect the formative context of the historical Roman amphitheatre as a distinct sculptural work in the foothills of the Khor Mountains.