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The seminar opened with a speech by Noura Bin Sandal, Deputy Director of the Planning and Economic Studies Department at SEDD. She praised Sharjah’s forward-looking vision for fostering a competitive investment climate and an ecosystem of innovation. Noura emphasized that the emirate has gone beyond enacting supportive policies by developing a comprehensive system that integrates infrastructure, incentives, and the energy of its ambitious youth.
Discussions throughout the seminar addressed a range of critical topics. These included the impact of innovation in creating startup incubation zones, the current landscape of local and global entrepreneurship, and the challenges faced by entrepreneurs. The conversations also explored how technology accelerates innovation, the growing influence of artificial intelligence, and the broader shift towards digital government services. Emphasis was placed on the need for effective coordination between public and private sectors, as well as the importance of legislation, policy frameworks, and government-backed initiatives.
The Sharjah Economic Development Department presented a comprehensive review of its economic and investment accomplishments between 2021 and 2024. The department outlined how its strategic efforts support decision-makers and shape economic policy across the emirate. Innovative services were highlighted, including the use of artificial intelligence in licensing processes and seamless electronic integration that simplifies administrative procedures and reduces transaction time. Attendees also received insights into the department’s approach to incentivizing growth in the industrial sector.
The Sharjah Foreign Direct Investment Office delivered a presentation on key investment opportunities in high-potential sectors. The presentation included details about the range of facilities available to attract global investors. Additionally, the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry outlined several initiatives aimed at supporting startups and expanding the scope of Sharjah’s trade and industrial activities.
A success story of an innovative local company was shared as a case study demonstrating the practical application of innovation. The presentation highlighted the company’s journey, the type of innovation it employed, the challenges it overcame, and how technology and research played a role in its growth. It also showcased the incentives and support the company received, illustrating how local ecosystems can nurture and sustain creative ventures.
The seminar included a dedicated workshop for university students, featuring an interactive session that encouraged participants to exchange ideas and develop actionable recommendations to support innovation and entrepreneurship in Sharjah. This youth-focused segment aimed to bridge academic insight with real-world application.
Among the initiatives presented were the Bayraq license and the e-commerce license, both designed to attract commercial investment. The seminar provided an overview of key facilities and resources made available to entrepreneurs and owners of innovative projects, reinforcing Sharjah’s commitment to enabling a dynamic business environment.
In her closing remarks, Noura Bin Sandal underlined that Sharjah is not only focused on present achievements but is actively building a future rooted in knowledge and innovation. She stressed that the Sharjah Economic Development Department sees investing in young minds and their ideas as the most effective way to achieve sustainable development and elevate Sharjah’s position on the global economic stage. She concluded by reaffirming that innovation and entrepreneurship lie at the heart of the department’s development strategy, with a strong focus on providing tools, support, and opportunities that help transform ideas into impactful, sustainable businesses.
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