People in the city can pay bills, book cabs and even report lost objects to the road transport authority.

When it comes to Emirati cities, Dubai and Abu Dhabi appear to be leading the way in terms of tech adoption for enhancing public services as well as private businesses across diverse sectors, but their neighbours like Sharjah and Ras Al-Khaimah aren't too far behind, since they've launched digital mechanisms of their own. From e-learning to online shopping and entertainment, smartphone apps are now a crucial tool for completing day-to-day tasks from banking to buying groceries with a few taps, without even having to step out of the house.

In the past one year, Sharjah has been in the news for innovative medtech marvels like 4D printed skin and a tiny brain stimulator, along with a platform that facilitates investments as well as the recent launch of high-tech skypods for a seamless commute. Following in the footsteps of ambitious smart cities in the gulf, Sharjah has now unveiled its own app, which is a one stop shop for residents as well as businesses, to complete a wide range of tasks including payment of bills, accessing healthcare from home and reporting crimes, through their smartphone screen.

Residents can book cabs, check flight status and register complaints about damaged or unsafe roads in the city, in addition to which they can use a VIP lounge at the airport, and report lost items to authorities from any location. Home care can be requested for people of determination or the elderly, by booking a nurse and mental health services are also accessible through the integrated digital platform.

When it comes to security, residents can reach out to Sharjah police through the app, for alerting them about incidents of violence or child abuse, while other legal services include access to court statements online.

Beyond public services, the Digital Sharjah App is also equipped to help out the private sector, by allowing new businesses to register trade names, secure licenses and to bring fresh investors on board. At the same time consumers as well as firms can register complaints about fraud and trademark violations, among other issues.