Sharjah Investment Forum opens with vision for resilient, sustainable economies
The ninth edition of the Sharjah Investment Forum convenes regional and global leaders to explore economic adaptation and investment opportunities under the theme of building resilient economies.
The ninth edition of the Sharjah Investment Forum opened at the Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre, bringing together policymakers, investors and business leaders from across the region and the world. H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, attended the inauguration ceremony alongside H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq).
The two-day forum, assembled under the theme “Building Resilient Economies”, represents a convening of thought and commerce centred upon economic sustainability and long-term prosperity. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, Chief Executive Officer of Shurooq, delivered the opening address, articulating Sharjah’s distinctive investment philosophy: one rooted in the preservation and enhancement of existing resources, their transformation into sustainable economic opportunities, and the cultivation of lasting impact alongside financial returns.
Al Qaseer illuminated the emirate’s approach through the exemplary “Heart of Sharjah” project, wherein heritage assets have been thoughtfully renovated and integrated into hospitality, cultural and commercial sectors, demonstrating how the past can meaningfully propel present and future economic activity. He emphasised that Shurooq’s vision, guided by H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi and the wisdom of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, positions people, education and culture as foundational to economic progress.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, outlined the imperative of diversification, robust economic policy, investment in human capital and technology as essential for maintaining economic resilience and competitive vigour. He presented compelling evidence of the UAE’s economic trajectory: national economic growth of 6.2 per cent in 2025, with non-oil GDP expanding by 6.8 per cent, and non-oil activities contributing over 79 per cent of GDP during the first half of 2026.
The minister emphasised that the next phase of economic evolution must concentrate upon maximising value extraction from each sector through technological advancement, rather than merely increasing sectoral breadth. He highlighted Sharjah’s harmonious development model, which integrates industry, services, entrepreneurship, education, culture and human capital, and drew upon the vision of the Ruler of Sharjah that education represents the fundamental element of national development. The UAE attracted $48.3 billion in foreign direct investment during 2025, maintaining its position as second globally for greenfield FDI projects, whilst Sharjah experienced a 45 per cent increase in FDI project numbers.
Simon Squibb, British entrepreneur and founder of HelpBnk, shared insights from his 37-year career, underscoring that trust, forged through honouring commitments, constitutes the cornerstone of enduring entrepreneurial success. He advocated for community-based approaches to entrepreneurship, emphasising that collaborative endeavour amplifies individual capabilities and unlocking shared objectives. Squibb observed that technology, particularly artificial intelligence and digital platforms, has substantially diminished barriers for emerging entrepreneurs, democratising access to financing, tools and global networks.
The forum convenes more than 80 speakers across a programme featuring over 140 events, including panel discussions, workshops and more than 80 dedicated business meetings, with international participation from over 60 countries. Organised by Invest in Sharjah in collaboration with the Ministry of Investment, the forum explores the enhancement of economic and corporate adaptability in an era of rapid transformation.
Source: WAM