Latest: Aluminium cladding blamed as authorities to probe towers across Sharjah
As flames spread through the Abbco Tower in Al Nahda on Tuesday night, residents have described their escape from the 48-storey apartment block.
Syrian Fadlallah Hassoun, 30, who lives on the 15th floor, said he heard the alarms but thought it was a drill.
"Then when I heard sirens and screams I looked outside and saw neighbours running down the stairs from the emergency exit," he said.
Mr Hassoun ran back into his flat and rescued his cat, which was hiding under the bed.
“I had to break the drawer under my bed to get her out, then picked up my mobile phone and ran down the stairs,” he said.
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Sharjah Abbco Tower blaze
Full story: Huge fire breaks out at Sharjah apartment block
Fire engulfs Sharjah's Abbco Tower - in pictures
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How to apply for a drone permit
- Individuals must register on UAE Drone app or website using their UAE Pass
- Add all their personal details, including name, nationality, passport number, Emiratis ID, email and phone number
- Upload the training certificate from a centre accredited by the GCAA
- Submit their request
What are the regulations?
- Fly it within visual line of sight
- Never over populated areas
- Ensure maximum flying height of 400 feet (122 metres) above ground level is not crossed
- Users must avoid flying over restricted areas listed on the UAE Drone app
- Only fly the drone during the day, and never at night
- Should have a live feed of the drone flight
- Drones must weigh 5 kg or less
