At the scene of the fire in Al Nahda, Sharjah on April 13, 2025. SHARJAH CIVIL DEFENSE

Update: Death toll in Sharjah fire rises to 5, with 19 injured A fire broke out in a residential tower in Sharjah’s Al Nahda area, killing five people and injuring several others on Sunday (April 13), according to Sharjah Civil Defense. Authorities initially reported four fatalities, but the death toll later rose to five. The victims, all African men, reportedly fell to their deaths as they tried to escape from the burning building by using ropes and climbing down the scaffolding. Authorities confirmed that one of the victims jumped from the 44th floor in a desperate attempt to escape the blaze. At least six other residents suffered injuries or smoke inhalation and are currently being treated in local hospitals. Emergency services responded swiftly after receiving a distress call at 11:31am. Firefighting teams from surrounding stations rushed to the site, where the fire had engulfed the upper floors of the high-rise tower.
The fire triggered an immediate evacuation, with emergency crews working rapidly to contain the flames and ensure the safety of residents. A total of 148 residents were evacuated from the 51-storey tower, the Civil Defense said. “Our teams responded quickly to the emergency call. The fire broke out on the upper floors and evacuation of the building began immediately upon arrival,” said a spokesperson from Sharjah Civil Defense. Police units were also deployed to secure the surrounding area and manage traffic flow, allowing unhindered access for fire trucks and ambulances. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the blaze and are assessing the building’s compliance with fire safety protocols and regulations. “We are committed to identifying the cause and ensuring the safety of all residents. The investigation is ongoing,” officials added. ICA/Expat Media
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