- Sharjah Civil Defence Authority signs MoU with NFPA at Intersec 2026
- Focus on fire professional training using NFPA’s 300+ codes and standards
- Supports Sharjah’s AED 100m cladding replacement for high-rise safety
Sharjah Civil Defence Authority (SCDA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to enhance fire and life safety across the Emirate of Sharjah. The agreement, formalised at Intersec Dubai 2026, was signed by His Excellency Brigadier Yousif Obaid Al Shamsi, SCDA Director General, and Jim Pauley, NFPA President and CEO.
The alliance focuses on developing education and training programmes for fire professionals, drawing on NFPA’s 130 years of expertise, over 300 fire codes and standards, and the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem. These resources will help tailor safety standards to Sharjah’s needs, including rapid urban development and high-rise buildings.
His Excellency Brigadier Yousif Obaid Al Shamsi stated: “At Sharjah Civil Defence Authority, fire and life safety are paramount, and we remain committed to safeguarding the well-being of our people. By collaborating with NFPA, we aim to leverage their 130 years of expertise in managing fire and electrical risks, ensuring that fire safety professionals across Sharjah are equipped with the latest knowledge and tools in line with global standards. This alliance reflects our dedication to continuous improvement and proactive measures to protect lives and property.”
Jim Pauley added: “In the urban landscape, fire presents a constant threat, and with ongoing development across Sharjah, including numerous high-rise buildings, it is essential that robust fire and life safety systems are in place to protect the public. At NFPA, we look forward to working alongside the Sharjah Civil Defence Authority to enhance the training and education of fire and life safety professionals across the Emirate. Our aim is to strengthen awareness and implementation of relevant codes, standards, and regulations, supporting Sharjah’s efforts to align safety practices with global benchmarks.”
The partnership aligns with Sharjah’s 2024 initiative, launched under His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, to replace hazardous cladding with fire-resistant materials at a cost of AED 100 million, fully funded by the government.
vThis collaboration could elevate fire safety standards across Middle East high-rise and industrial projects by embedding global best practices into local training and enforcement.
