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His Highness 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 7th edition of the Sharjah Investment Forum (SIF 2024) on Wednesday. The 2-day forum is organised by the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) and carries the theme ‘A Futuristic Vision for Smart Economies’. The 100+ discussions and workshops at the forum will be led by over 80 global voices and top experts from around the world.
The opening ceremony of SIF 2024 was attended by HE Abdullah bin Touq, Minister of Economy; HE Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq; HE Mohammed Juma Al Musharrakh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, and leading government officials, investors, and media representatives.
Bodour Al Qasimi: This forum embodies Sharjah’s economic vision
Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi asserted, “Sharjah is steadfast in elevating its appeal for investment across regional capitals and global markets. Supported by a robust regulatory framework, strategic geographic positioning 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 and specialists 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, His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq, Cabinet Member and UAE Minister of Economy, stated: “In the UAE, we are blessed with leaders who prioritise the future and are committed to enhancing the quality of life and prosperity of their people. A prime example of this wise leadership is His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, a leader, father and bearer of a cultural and humanitarian message. Under his directives, Sharjah has witnessed significant economic and social development, becoming a leading destination for business and investment, thereby enhancing the UAE’s position regionally and globally”.
Regarding national efforts in economic diversification, His Excellency stated: “The non-oil sector of the country now accounts for approximately 74% of the total GDP, reflecting substantial progress in our economic diversification journey. Sharjah continues to be a key force in the country’s economic diversification, with nearly 96% 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 from around the world to discuss the latest investment trends and opportunities. We are confident that the outcomes of this edition will serve as a significant milestone in our national efforts to attract investments towards sustainable development projects across various economic sectors, supporting the country’s economic development journey and its national goal of attracting US$150 billion in foreign investments by 2031.”
A collaborative economic ecosystem
HE Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, underscored that building a sustainable and resilient economic future is a shared responsibility that demands the active participation of institutions, businesses and communities. He emphasised that achieving global transformation requires clear, measurable objectives, strategic planning, and the capacity to deliver meaningful impact.
He remarked: “Under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Sharjah has made significant strides in critical areas such as food security, sustainability, and the circular economy, while also enhancing its appeal to both local and international investors. These milestones not only reflect the UAE’s forward-thinking leadership but also its commitment to advancing cutting-edge sectors, strengthening digital infrastructure, and increasing the influx of foreign companies into its markets. These achievements position the UAE as a key player in driving the global shift towards smart, sustainable economies, cementing its status as a premier investment hub.”
He added: “In this dynamic landscape, Shurooq, under the visionary guidance of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, is dedicated to supporting Sharjah’s ongoing evolution by championing diversity, sustainability, and innovation. We are creating a fertile ground for investment and business opportunities while forging strategic partnerships that attract capital, talent, and expertise. Our focus is on fostering smart technologies, bridging cultural gaps, and advancing shared objectives. We are confident that SIF 2024 will serve as a catalyst for partnerships and collaborations, laying the groundwork for a future defined by economic and social prosperity.”
Shaping the future economy through investment
In his opening keynote, His Excellency Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, addressed the rapidly evolving global economic landscape, emphasising the transformative shifts that are increasingly reshaping its key characteristics. He observed that these changes are accelerating, demanding agile adaptation and innovation.
He stated: “The most successful investment markets in the era of smart economies are those that are 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 just six minutes through AI technology. This cutting-edge initiative, developed in collaboration with Microsoft and Sharjah Publishing City, marks a pivotal step in our alignment with the new economy”.
Al Musharrakh 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 in health, education, and welfare while ensuring market stability. The future economy we envision will not only mitigate crises but proactively address them, built around human capital as the driving force behind development and policy. It must be not only smart but also wise. This is the vision Sharjah and the UAE are committed to, as we strengthen our readiness for the economies of tomorrow.”
Grant Cardone: ‘AI enables us to engage with millions in ways impossible before’
In his keynote speech titled ‘Insight: Three Ways to Dominate Smart Economies,’ renowned business and sales strategist Grant Cardone said: “In today’s rapidly evolving world, the key to success lies in adaptability, resilience, and embracing change. It’s not enough to keep up; we must be willing to push boundaries, think creatively, and adopt new technologies. Setting ambitious goals and challenging conventional thinking forces us to find new solutions and motivates teams to innovate. When targets are significant, they inspire action and drive organisations to rise to the occasion.”
He added: “By thinking bigger and setting larger goals, we create an environment where adaptability becomes second nature, and innovation thrives. This mindset is crucial for businesses and economies alike, especially as we navigate the complexities of the emerging smart economy.”
Speaking on harnessing technological advancement, Cardone added: “The rapid pace of technological advancement has transformed our operations. AI intrigued me from the start because I saw its potential to scale far beyond traditional methods. It has allowed us to engage with millions of customers in ways that would have been impossible before. AI and new technologies are true game-changers, enabling businesses to grow exponentially and reach unprecedented heights.”
Honouring partners
During the opening ceremony, Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem Al Qasimi, in the presence of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, honoured the forum’s partners, including Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry; Sharjah Economic Development Department; Sharjah Media City (Shams); Invest Bank; Bank of Sharjah; Sharjah Publishing City; Sharjah Technology and Innovation Park; and the BEEAH Group.
His Highness also honoured Emirates Development Bank; Arada Real Estate Development; National Paints; Skyline University College; Khaleej Times; FAST Contracting Company; Emirates NBD; Trylieve Holdings Ltd; Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre; and NABD for their support to SIF 2024.
SIF 2024 offers a comprehensive agenda to empower investors, entrepreneurs, and start-ups with the knowledge and skills required to keep up with rapid technological advancements. Led by experts and economic leaders, the forum offers workshops, panel discussions, and inspiring keynote speeches, ensuring the sharing of successful experiences and providing opportunities for networking among participants to generate new ideas and innovative solutions to economic challenges.
