The Roman-modelled coliseum on Al Majaz Island in Sharjah is set for a giant transformation.

A concert by the internationally acclaimed Greek musician Yanni slated for November 6 is expected to herald a whole new beginning for the Al Majaz Amphitheatre, showcasing itself as the Mice (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) destination of Sharjah as well as the UAE.

The Dh140million Al Majaz Amphitheatre, which was opened on March 30 last year, has emerged as a major new iconic landmark on the map of Sharjah and the UAE in a very short time.

Built on the artificially created Al Majaz Island in the heart of Khalid Lagoon, Al Majaz Amphitheatre was inaugurated by His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, on a grand note with the premiere of epic oratorio, Clusters of Light, which heralded the Sharjah Islamic Culture Capital 2014 celebrations.

Shaikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Media Centre, said: "Al Majaz Amphitheatre represents the unique identity of Sharjah and a young nation full of hope and aspirations. It is a symbol of universal values such as tolerance, reason, peace and dialogue, values that are cherished by the great Islamic civilisation and which need to be renewed and reemphasised today."

"The project complements the cultural manifestations and heritage chronicling Sharjah's story and reaffirms its influential role on the world stage."

At the same time, he added, with its world-class facilities and amenities and picturesque view, Al Majaz Amphitheatre is also a tourist attraction and an ideal Mice destination to host international conferences, concerts and events like the upcoming Yanni concert.

With its amazing architectural design and blend of aesthetic grandeur, world-class amenities and state-of-the-art technology, the amphitheatre stands out as a one-of its-kind facility in the United Arab Emirates and the region.

The open-air semi-circular theatre spanning 7,238 square metres can accommodate up to 4,500 people. It is specially equipped to host international events with a panoramic view of the stunning Khalid Lagoon.

It boasts numerous facilities including conference rooms, VIP lounges and galleries, not to mention fully-equipped venues for backstage preparations.

Al Majaz Amphitheatre has won awards like Best Event Lighting Design for 'Clusters of Light' at the Middle East Event Awards, and 2014 Award for Best Visual Spectacular at the Event Production Awards in UK.

The use of the latest technology by Al Majaz Amphitheatre is unprecedented in the Middle East, blending sound, lighting, and music to spectacular effect.

At a time when Sharjah is being celebrated as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2015 by the Arab League, Al Majaz Island is also attracting attention as a tourist site.

Source: Khaleej Times