Sharjah showcases economic visionary at AIM Congress 2025
The participation of the Sharjah Investor Services Center (Saeed), alongside Invest in Sharjah, further reinforced how the emirate's integrated infrastructure and legislative environment create an ideal platform for businesses to thrive. Highlighting Sharjah's comprehensive ecosystem for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) supported by free zones offering competitive incentives and seamless operational frameworks, this enhances Sharjah's reputation as a safe and attractive destination for long-term investments.
A preferred destination for long-term investments
Sharjah has consistently demonstrated its ability to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) through its unique blend of economic diversity, financial stability, and investor-friendly policies. Ranked fifth globally among the fastest-growing cities in FDI inflows, the emirate has established itself as a preferred destination for long-term investments. H.E Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of IIS, emphasised that Sharjah's participation in AIM 2025 reflects its commitment to showcasing the advanced competitive advantages of its investment environment. He also highlighted how the emirate has become a global model for balanced growth and sectoral integration, with emerging industries playing a key role in shaping its future economy.
Expanding on this, Al Musharrkh noted, 'Sharjah's economy has shown both stability and growth with a GDP of approximately $25 billion in 2024 and a +BBB rating for market efficiency. Foreign investment across various sectors has surged by 44%, reflecting investor confidence in the emirate's strategic vision and world-class infrastructure. AIM 2025 offers an invaluable opportunity to engage with entrepreneurs and industry leaders from around the world who are increasingly drawn to markets with proven developmental experience. In this context, Sharjah's consistent economic performance and forward-looking policies position it as an attractive destination for global investors seeking stability and returns.'
Showcasing Sharjah's forward-thinking investment opportunities
During their participation, Invest in Sharjah placed particular emphasis on emerging sectors that are shaping the future economy, and agricultural technology was highlighted as a key area for sustainable development addressing global challenges such as food security through innovative solutions. Smart industrial solutions were also showcased as part of Sharjah's drive to integrate advanced technologies into manufacturing processes, enhancing efficiency and productivity. Additionally, modern health and education technologies were highlighted for their reverberating impact on society, where innovation can significantly improve quality of life while contributing to long-term economic growth.
Mapping the future of global investment
Under the theme ''Mapping the Future of Global Investment: The New Wave of a Globalised Investment Landscape – Towards a New Balanced World Structure,' AIM 2025 welcomed over 20,000 attendees from 180 countries and brought together an impressive assembly of global leaders, including heads of state, more than 60 ministers, central bank governors, city mayors, and key industry stakeholders. With a packed agenda, the event featured over 1,250 speakers across 400 sessions and also saw participation from 600 exhibitors.
For Sharjah, participation in such high-profile forums aligns with its strategic goals of attracting diverse investments while contributing to sustainable economic growth on a global scale, and by leveraging platforms like AIM 2025, Invest in Sharjah continues to build meaningful connections with international stakeholders.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Broadcast Pro
5 days ago
- Broadcast Pro
DFI announces programming and awards for 2025 Doha Film Festival
Doha Film Festival to have four competition strands with total of over USD 300,000 in prize money to reward artistic excellence. Doha Film Institute (DFI) has unveiled the programming and awards lineup for the upcoming Doha Film Festival (DFF), reaffirming its dedication to championing bold, original storytelling and amplifying underrepresented voices and diverse perspectives in global cinema. The announcement was made during the 78th Cannes Film Festival, marking the 15th anniversary of DFI, which was first launched in Cannes in 2010 by DFI Chair H.E. Sheikha Al Mayassa. Set to take place from November 20 to 28, 2025, the festival will offer over $300,000 in prize money and feature a vibrant official selection across four competition categories: the International Feature Film Competition, showcasing compelling new works by emerging and established filmmakers; the International Short Film Competition, which highlights innovative storytelling in short form; the Ajyal Film Competition, judged by a youth jury offering generational insight; and the Made in Qatar Competition, celebrating the creativity and talent of filmmakers based in Qatar. The festival promises a multifaceted experience, with industry sessions, community screenings, youth-focused programming, and a variety of events that will transform Doha into a global hub for filmmakers, artists, and audiences united by a passion for thought-provoking cinema. Fatma Hassan Alremaihi, Chief Executive Officer of Doha Film Institute and Festival Director, said: 'Doha Film Festival is not only a celebration of cinema, but a platform for purpose-driven storytelling amplifying important voices that are redefining the global film landscape with depth, nuance, and truth.' She added: 'It is the next chapter in our continued mission to nurture independent filmmakers, inspire new perspectives and foster cultural dialogue through cinema. The festival will offer a vibrant meeting point for film lovers, a stage for powerful stories and a launchpad for a new generation of cinematic talent. DFF is an expansion of the strong foundation we built with Ajyal Film Festival as a unique platform for self-expression and creative empowerment, and we look forward to guests celebrating the unifying power of film with us in Doha this November.' Each competition will feature awards that not only recognise excellence in filmmaking but also provide significant financial support and international exposure. The International Feature Film Competition will be adjudicated by a five-member jury and include awards such as Best Narrative ($75,000), Best Documentary ($50,000), Best Artistic Achievement ($45,000), and Best Performance ($15,000), along with a Special Mention certificate. The International Short Film Competition, overseen by a three-member jury, will award Best Film – Narrative or Documentary ($20,000), Best Director ($12,000), and Best Performance ($7,000). Meanwhile, the Made in Qatar Competition will honor local talent with awards for Best Short – Narrative or Documentary ($15,000), Best Director ($10,000), and Best Performance ($5,000), further reflecting DFI's strong commitment to supporting homegrown storytellers. The Ajyal Film Competition, continuing its tradition within DFF, will feature a youth jury aged 16 to 25, who will present awards for Best Feature – Narrative or Documentary ($35,000) and Best Short – Narrative or Documentary ($12,000). An Audience Award, accompanied by a certificate and trophy, will also be presented during the festival. DFF will activate iconic locations throughout Doha, with Katara Cultural Village set to host red carpet events and premieres, Msheireb Downtown Doha serving as the central hub for industry activities, and the Museum of Islamic Art providing an intimate venue for short film screenings. The full festival programme, including jury members and competition film titles, will be revealed in the coming months.
Web Release
6 days ago
- Web Release
UAE ministers hail election of Shaikha Al Nowais as UN Tourism Secretary-General as a historic milestone in global tourism leadership
Several UAE ministers hailed the election of Emirati H.E. Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais as Secretary-General of UN Tourism as a historic and commendable achievement for the country on both the regional and global stage. This accomplishment reflects the UAE's leading position in tourism and the success of its strategic vision to support international efforts in developing a sustainable and responsible tourism sector that drives economic and social development for communities around the world. H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the UAE Tourism Council, said: 'Thanks to the guidance of our wise leadership, the UAE today celebrates a new historic milestone in its tourism sector: the election of the UAE's candidate, H.E. Shaikha Al Nowais, as Secretary-General of UN Tourism for the 2026–2029 term. This achievement reflects the UAE's pioneering and influential role in leading global efforts toward sustainable tourism development, in close cooperation with international decision-makers and organizations across the global tourism landscape. It also reaffirms the success of the UAE's strategic vision in strengthening openness to the world and building robust international partnerships that support its aspirations as a premier tourism destination, both regionally and globally.' H.E. Bin Touq added: 'We are proud to have earned the trust of the international community in our national capabilities, as reflected in the election of Shaikha Al Nowais – the first Emirati and Arab young woman – to the position of UN Tourism Secretary-General. This milestone highlights the competence of our young national talent and their ability to gain international confidence in leading high-level roles within specialized sectors such as tourism. It also reaffirms the prominent status that Arab women have achieved on both regional and global stages.' H.E. also commended her extensive experience and capabilities in representing the UAE at the highest international levels, as well as her comprehensive vision for strengthening global cooperation to achieve sustainable and responsible tourism development. Her leadership is expected to elevate the tourism sector to new heights of progress and prosperity while contributing meaningfully to the implementation of UN Tourism projects and initiatives. H.E. pointed out that the UAE's tourism sector achieved exceptional growth in 2024, driven by the launch of several key national initiatives designed to promote tourism within the country and attract international visitors. Notable developments included the fifth season of the 'World's Coolest Winter' campaign, the inauguration of the National Tourism Charter, and the adoption of the International Code for the Protection of Tourists—implemented in collaboration with UN Tourism as a guiding framework. These initiatives collectively support the objectives of the National Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to position the UAE as the world's leading tourism brand by the next decade. Her Excellency Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, emphasized that the election of Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais as Secretary-General of UN Tourism represents a significant milestone for the UAE and a proud achievement for Emirati women. Her Excellency added: 'Her appointment as the first woman to assume this position demonstrates the international community's confidence in her capabilities and highlights the UAE's leading role in advancing sustainable development globally.' Her Excellency noted that Shaikha's distinguished career in the private sector will bring a fresh perspective to UN Tourism, with a focus on delivering tangible results and enhancing the organization's operational efficiency for the benefit of the global tourism industry. His Excellency Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, said: 'Empowering and supporting Emirati women is a cornerstone of the UAE's wise leadership and its vision for a more prosperous and advanced future. The UAE continues to strengthen women's participation and contributions across all sectors, while ensuring their impactful presence on regional and international platforms. In this context, the selection of young Emirati Shaikha Al Nowais as Secretary-General of UN Tourism reflects this forward-looking vision. It marks a significant step in reinforcing the UAE's global leadership in promoting a safe, sustainable, and inclusive tourism sector that drives long-term growth and development.' His Excellency added: 'The election of H.E. Shaikha Al Nowais to this prestigious international position reflects not only her competence and professional excellence but also the international community's confidence in the UAE and its standing as a trusted partner in advancing sustainable development globally. It further reaffirms the esteemed position our nation has earned both regionally and internationally.' Underscoring the significance of the historic milestone, H.E. Omar Obaid Al Hassan Al Shamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noted that the election of the first Emirati woman by the UN World Tourism Organization demonstrates the continuous support and empowerment provided to Emirati women by the UAE's wise leadership. His Excellency further affirmed that the UAE's continued collaboration with the Organization and its member states has yielded tangible results. The Undersecretary expressed his confidence that Shaikha Al Nowais, with her robust expertise in tourism and hospitality, would redefine the future path of the industry's development.
Gulf Today
31-05-2025
- Gulf Today
Sharjah to host 29th edition of World Investment Conference
In a significant step that underscores the UAE's prominence on the global investment map, the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), in collaboration with the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) and the UAE Ministry of Investment, has announced the 29th edition of the World Investment Conference (WIC). Marking its debut in Sharjah, the event will be conducted under a shared agenda with the Sharjah Investment Forum (SIF), which will take place from October 22 to 24 at Expo Centre Sharjah. This international collaboration was officially formalised through a 'Host Agreement' in the presence of Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, and Dr James Zhan, Chairman of the Executive Board of the World Investment Conference (WIC). Signatories to the agreement included Mohammad AbdulRahman Alhawi, Undersecretary of the UAE Ministry of Investment; Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah; and Ismail Ersahin, Executive Director and CEO of WAIPA. Commenting on the strategic significance of the event, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi said: 'Hosting the 29th edition of WIC in Sharjah reflects international confidence in the emirate's status as a leading destination for responsible and sustainable investment and underscores its readiness to convene global discussions focused on directing capital towards tangible development goals.' 'In Sharjah, we believe that the future of investment depends on striking a balance between economic growth and social development. For this reason, we are committed to ensuring that the international platforms we host provide opportunities to build partnerships that facilitate knowledge exchange, promote innovation, and deliver meaningful impact for both communities and markets,' she added. The decision to host the 29th edition of the WIC in Sharjah holds particular importance as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of WAIPA. This milestone adds a commemorative element to the event, recognising three decades of advancing global investment and underscoring the critical role of investment promotion agencies in shaping both regional and international economic landscapes. Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, said: 'The World Investment Conference taking place in Sharjah reflects the UAE's enduring commitment to shaping the global investment agenda. As WAIPA marks its 30th anniversary, this collaboration highlights our shared ambition to deepen cross-border partnerships and drive inclusive, sustainable economic growth.' Commenting on the collaboration, Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh highlighted that hosting global investment institutions in Sharjah will unlock a wide range of opportunities for local and regional business communities, facilitating greater access to expansive networks of cross-border partnerships. He stressed that the collaboration underscores Invest in Sharjah's ongoing commitment to equipping investors with the tools necessary for sustainable growth, while fostering a flexible and scalable development environment that adapts to evolving market dynamics and responds to both current opportunities and future challenges. In this context, Ismail Ersahin, Executive Director and CEO of WAIPA said 'Investment promotion agencies are the architects of global economic connectivity - they bridge nations, ideas and capital to generate lasting impact. As WAIPA marks its 30th anniversary, we are proud to bring the World Investment Conference to Sharjah.'' 'This conference is not just a celebration of WAIPA's legacy, but a platform for meaningful collaboration between the public and private sectors, where investors are matched with opportunities. Sharjah's hosting of WIC 2025 reflects its growing leadership in global investment discourse and its commitment to shaping the next era of responsible, resilient investment.' he added. Dr James Zhan, Chairman of the Executive Board of the World Investment Conference, emphasised that the Conference is set to take place at the right time, in the right location, and with the right partners. He highlighted Sharjah as a unique and strategic destination for foreign direct investment. As a regional leader in attracting FDI, the UAE continues to strengthen its position among the world's top 15 investment destinations. The World Investment Conference arrives at a pivotal moment. In the face of global economic uncertainty and market volatility, the Conference aims to address pressing challenges while exploring new opportunities. It will serve as a vital global forum-bringing together the international investment community to shape a forward-looking strategy. It will chart a new path for promoting sustainable investment and shared prosperity in the new era of global economy. Since 2015, Invest in Sharjah has organised the Sharjah Investment Forum, establishing it as a leading regional platform for tracking global investment trends, identifying opportunities within the sustainable economy, and aligning with the direction of international capital and markets. Over the years, the forum has attracted prominent decision-makers, experts, and global investors, facilitating strategic discussions that support the development priorities of Sharjah, the UAE, and the wider region. Its integration of WIC reflects a strategic approach to enhancing its impact, widening the scope of discussions, and fostering meaningful partnerships across sectors and borders. WAM
