Etisalat announced its support of all national and voluntary efforts aimed at reviving the historical Al Jazirah Al Hamra (Red Island) site, which is located 18km to the southwest of Ras Al Khaimah. This announcement followed the launch of a voluntary initiative by four young men from the region to protect the island from destruction and becoming inhabitable, while preserving its historical and heritage value.

As part of the initiative, the island was cleaned up and the ancient narrow roads, or “Sakik”, were made clear through the removal of waste and overgrown bushes which were closed from access due to neglect. The traditional houses and back gardens were also cleaned, while harmful plants and trees were removed. Some of the ancient retail shops were decorated with traditional materials such as palm wickers and ancient lanterns.

The project also included the setting up and decoration of a traditional café in ancient décor, and the establishment of authentic traditional amenities, which reflect the spirit of life in the past in the UAE. The public initiative also considered the preservation of houses and traditional buildings.

Ali Al Ahmed, Chief Corporate Communications Officer for Etisalat, commented on the Corporation’s support of this initiative, saying: “At Etisalat, we regularly provide a variety of support and sponsorship of events and initiatives that aim to promote the importance of volunteer work, while helping to develop and promote local community activities, and preserve UAE heritage as a whole. Etisalat’s support of these initiatives allows us to work and interact directly with the local community and the youth, the same community in which Etisalat was able to grow and become successful.”