In a concerted push to enhance economic competitiveness and promote sustainable development, the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD) and the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) convened a high-level meeting to explore avenues for deeper cooperation across the emirate’s key commercial and tourism sectors.
The meeting was led by Hamad Ali Abdalla Al Mahmoud, chairman of SEDD, who welcomed Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, chairman of SCTDA, and the authority’s delegation.
Discussions focused on aligning strategic initiatives that bolster investment attraction, enhance the emirate’s business environment, and elevate Sharjah’s profile as a prime destination for trade and tourism.
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Advancing a unified economic vision
During the meeting, both sides reviewed a range of collaborative initiatives aimed at streamlining services and fostering an integrated economic ecosystem in line with Sharjah’s strategic vision.
Emphasis was placed on joint projects that support the emirate’s economic diversification goals and contribute to its growing global competitiveness.
Al Mahmoud stressed the importance of reinforcing strategic partnerships between government entities, noting that such cooperation fosters integration and knowledge exchange in support of sustainable development goals.
Al Mahmoud reaffirmed SEDD’s dedication to its development agenda, guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.
He noted that SEDD remains focused on strengthening the emirate’s position as an attractive destination for investment across all sectors.
Supporting institutional integration and growth
Commenting on the visit, Al Midfa emphasized SCTDA’s commitment to fostering strategic partnerships across the emirate’s public sector.
The meeting also examined opportunities for institutional integration that enhance service delivery and investor support.
Both parties reiterated the importance of unified efforts in promoting Sharjah’s economic dynamism, particularly in light of its ongoing focus on sustainable development and economic diversification — key pillars of the emirate’s long-term policy framework.
Towards a more competitive and sustainable emirate
The meeting is part of a broader initiative to deepen inter-governmental collaboration and accelerate progress toward Sharjah’s development goals.
It underscores the emirate’s strategic direction toward building a vibrant, diversified economy supported by innovation, investment, and strong public-private synergy.
Sharjah has experienced significant growth in business establishment and sustainability over the years, with 71,320 new and renewed licenses issued in 2024, reflecting a 7 percent increase.
In 2024, Sharjah was ranked fourth in the GCC and seventh in the MENA region in the Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2024 by Startup Genome and the Global Entrepreneurship Network.
