SHARJAH: H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, in the presence of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), inaugurated the seventh edition of the Sharjah Investment Forum (SIF 2024) on Wednesday.
The two-day forum is organised by the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) and carries the theme ‘A Futuristic Vision for Smart Economies’. The forum features more than 100 discussions and workshops led by over 80 global experts.
The opening ceremony of SIF 2024 was attended by Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy; Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq; Mohammed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, along with government officials, investors, and media representatives.
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi stated, ‘Sharjah is steadfast in elevating its appeal for investment across regional capitals and global markets. Supported by a robust regulatory framework, strategic geographic pos
itioning, and world-class infrastructure, this vision is advanced through initiatives like SIF 2024. As an international platform, SIF 2024 embodies Sharjah’s economic vision, attracting top-tier experts who drive innovation in the regional and global economy. This forum is poised to deliver a profound impact, transforming key sectors of Sharjah’s economy and enhancing its role on the global stage.’
In his keynote address, Abdullah bin Touq, Minister of Economy, stated, ‘In the UAE, we are fortunate to have leaders who prioritise the future and are committed to enhancing the quality of life and prosperity of their people. A prime example of this leadership is H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who has driven significant economic and social development, making Sharjah a leading destination for business and investment, and further enhancing the UAE’s position regionally and globally.’
Regarding national efforts in economic diversification, Abdullah bin
Touq highlighted, ‘The non-oil sector now accounts for approximately 74 percent of the total GDP, reflecting substantial progress in our economic diversification journey. Sharjah continues to be a key force in this, with nearly 96 percent of its economic activity in non-oil sectors. The emirate boasts six specialised free zones, flexible investment options, advanced infrastructure, and excellence in manufacturing, trade, and creative industries.’
He added, ‘The Sharjah Investment Forum has increasingly gained importance over its previous editions and today is a sought-after annual event that attracts major investors and decision-makers to discuss the latest investment trends and opportunities. We are confident that the outcomes of this edition will serve as a milestone in our national efforts to attract investments towards sustainable development projects, supporting the country’s goal of attracting US$150 billion in foreign investments by 2031.’
Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, underscored that build
ing a sustainable and resilient economic future requires the active participation of institutions, businesses, and communities. He emphasised that achieving global transformation demands clear objectives, strategic planning, and the capacity to deliver meaningful impact.
He remarked, ‘Under the leadership of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Sharjah has made significant strides in areas such as food security, sustainability, and the circular economy, while also enhancing its appeal to both local and international investors. These milestones reflect the UAE’s forward-thinking leadership and its commitment to advancing sectors such as digital infrastructure, further positioning the UAE as a key player in driving the global shift towards smart, sustainable economies.’
He added, ‘Shurooq, under the guidance of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, is dedicated to supporting Sharjah’s ongoing evolution by championing diversity, sustainability, and innovation. We are creating fertile ground for inves
tment opportunities while forging partnerships that attract capital, talent, and expertise. Our focus is on fostering smart technologies and advancing shared objectives. We are confident that SIF 2024 will serve as a catalyst for partnerships and collaborations, laying the groundwork for a prosperous future.’
In his opening keynote, Mohammed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, addressed the rapidly evolving global economic landscape, emphasising the transformative shifts that are reshaping its key characteristics. He noted that these changes demand agile adaptation and innovation.
He stated, ‘The most successful investment markets in the era of smart economies are those equipped to innovate and adapt, backed by robust digital infrastructure and visionary projects. Today, we at Invest in Sharjah are proud to unveil the world’s first fully automated business licensing system, enabling investors and entrepreneurs to secure licences within six minutes using AI technology. This initiative, developed in
collaboration with Microsoft and Sharjah Publishing City, marks a pivotal step in our alignment with the new economy.’
Al Musharrkh concluded, ‘Investment today is critical in shaping future economies that prioritise climate protection, resource conservation, public health, and social development. These forward-looking economies will offer solutions to pressing challenges while ensuring market stability. The future economy we envision will prioritise human capital as the driving force behind development and policy.’
In his keynote speech titled ‘Insight: Three Ways to Dominate Smart Economies’, renowned business strategist Grant Cardone said, ‘In today’s rapidly evolving world, success lies in adaptability, resilience, and embracing change. It’s not enough to keep up; we must push boundaries, think creatively, and adopt new technologies. Setting ambitious goals and challenging conventional thinking forces us to find new solutions.’
He added, ‘By thinking bigger and setting larger goals, we create an enviro
nment where adaptability becomes second nature. This mindset is crucial for businesses and economies as we navigate the complexities of the emerging smart economy.’
Speaking on technological advancement, Cardone added, ‘AI has transformed how we operate. It has allowed us to engage with millions in ways that would have been impossible before. AI and new technologies enable businesses to grow exponentially and reach unprecedented heights.’
SIF 2024 offers a comprehensive agenda to empower investors, entrepreneurs, and start-ups with the knowledge and skills required to keep pace with rapid technological advancements. Led by experts and economic leaders, the forum offers workshops, panel discussions, and keynote speeches, providing opportunities for networking and innovative solutions to economic challenges.
Source: Emirates News Agency
