Latest news with #SharjahFDIOffice
Gulf Today
26-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
New digital platform launched to streamline M&A in Sharjah
The Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) has launched 'Sharjah AcquireHub', the region's first government-backed digital platform that specifically streamlines mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within Sharjah. Developed in a strategic partnership with Transworld Business Advisors, a global authority in business advisory services, the platform aims to accelerate economic growth, enhance market resilience, and attract high-calibre investment to Sharjah through a transparent and secure environment for M&A transactions. Sharjah AcquireHub serves diverse stakeholders; including international investors, SMEs, entrepreneurs, and local businesses; connecting capital with high-potential opportunities in the emirate. The platform enhances market liquidity and provides flexible solutions for growth, strategic exits, or corporate restructuring. Its end-to-end process includes seamless online registration, tailored advisory support, and post-transaction assistance, all reinforced by strict confidentiality measures such as NDAs and thorough due diligence. This secure, structured ecosystem empowers investors, buyers, and financiers with the clarity and protections needed to confidently pursue acquisitions or strategic partnerships, while also providing a trusted platform for business owners in Sharjah who are seeking to exit, allowing them to list their companies for potential acquisition. The platform is the outcome of an MoU signed between Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, and Ahmad Ibrahim, CEO of Transworld GCC, formalised in the presence of Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). The partnership underscores Sharjah's ongoing commitment to fostering robust public-private collaboration and enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of its investment ecosystem. Sharjah AcquireHub is a strategic gateway for investors seeking access to high-potential opportunities in the emirate, particularly within the dynamic and profitable mid-market segment. It provides advanced tools and clear pathways to engage with the global M&A landscape, which reached a value of US$ 3.5 trillion in 2024, marking a 15% increase over the previous year, according to Bain & Company. The platform addresses the growing momentum in M&A and exit activity at the regional level, with 701 deals totalling $92.3 billion recorded across regional markets in 2024, as reported in the EY MENA M&A Report. The upward trend highlights the importance of a locally-rooted yet globally-aligned platform that offers secure, regulated support for facilitating such strategic transactions. It also represents a strategic opportunity for SMEs and entrepreneurs to integrate into a wider growth environment through partnerships and alliances that support development, safe exits, or repositioning. This contributes to the stability of the SME sector, which constitutes over 94% of businesses in the UAE. Sharjah has seen notable growth in business establishment and sustainability, with 71,320 new and renewed licences issued in 2024, reflecting a 7% increase. At the macroeconomic level, Sharjah AcquireHub is an enabler of innovation and economic transformation, offering a more agile and effective approach to restructuring and capital allocation. By channelling resources towards high-value projects and enterprises, the platform empowers policymakers to prioritise strategic sectors, thereby advancing economic diversification and reducing dependence on traditional industries. Its launch reaffirms Sharjah's commitment to fostering an integrated investment environment supported by a long-term economic vision. Anchored by a knowledge-based, diversified economy and consistent backing for key sectors such as industry, technology, and healthcare, and bolstered by its strategic geographic position, Sharjah is uniquely placed to serve as a regional hub for high-impact M&A activity. Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, said: "In our ongoing efforts to position the emirate as a regional hub for M&A, our collaboration with Transworld Business Advisors creates new pathways for domestic and international investors, leveraging global expertise alongside Sharjah's development vision and technological capabilities. The platform reflects evolving business dynamics and reinforces Sharjah's leadership in shaping the future of investment across the region.' For his part, Ahmad Ibrahim, CEO of Transworld GCC, commented: "We are proud to be part of this partnership, which exemplifies meaningful collaboration in building a cohesive and sustainable investment ecosystem, and we are confident in the long-term impact this platform will have in enhancing the investment landscape and unlocking new growth opportunities. At Transworld, we believe that digital transformation and strategic partnerships will be central to driving the next phase of economic advancement.' Transworld Business Advisors is recognised as a leading force in the global M&A landscape, having completed over 2,500 transactions in 2024 alone. With a presence spanning more than 250 offices across 27 countries and a network of over 1,000 specialised dealmakers, the firm ranks among Axial's Top 100 global M&A advisory firms. As a partner in the Sharjah AcquireHub initiative, Transworld Business Advisors is spearheading the development of the platform's operational framework, and will also deliver M&A readiness workshops for local businesses and launch an international matchmaking programme to connect vetted companies with prospective investors. In addition, it will lead targeted roadshows in high-potential global markets to promote strategic acquisition opportunities in Sharjah. Curated investment opportunities across Sharjah will be featured on the Invest in Sharjah website and updated regularly. The platform enables company owners to register their interest in pursuing expansion or exit strategies. It also provides a gateway for investors seeking to enter the UAE market through well-structured, strategic transactions. WAM
Gulf Today
29-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Sharjah-Mexico meet discusses opportunities in SME financing
As the UAE and Mexico mark 50 years of diplomatic relations in 2025, the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) and the Mexican Business Council convened the 'Sharjah-Mexico Business Roundtable' at the House of Wisdom to identify strategic growth opportunities in SME financing, logistics, real estate, and automotive manufacturing; and explore the vast investment and commercial prospects Sharjah offers to businesses in Mexico and the wider Latin American and Caribbean markets. Attended by Luis Alfonso de Alba, Ambassador of Mexico to the UAE; Mohamed Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah; Rafael Villalona, President of the Mexican Business Council; and leading investors and entrepreneurs from both countries, the event underscored a shared vision for innovation-driven partnerships. As part of the agenda, a dedicated panel discussion titled 'Why Sharjah? Opportunities Beyond Borders' was held, during which participants examined Sharjah's competitive advantages, sectoral growth opportunities, and regulatory reforms, reaffirming a shared commitment to innovation, sustainable growth, and cross-regional investment. Diplomatic milestones and economic ambitions In his keynote address, Luis Alfonso de Alba, highlighted the significance of the roundtable as a precursor to the golden jubilee of bilateral relations. 'Sharjah has played a key role in strengthening the relationship between Mexico and the UAE,' he stated, citing Sharjah's participation as the guest of honour at the 2022 Guadalajara International Book Fair as a cultural milestone. 'This event we are having today signals the great potential to expand commercial ties between Sharjah and Mexico. I am certain this is only the beginning of a fruitful mutual relationship, potential is huge and the time is right.' Trade growth and strategic synergies Mohamed Al Musharrkh, echoed this optimism recalling his visit to the Central-American region, saying, 'I had the honour of being part of the UAE's official delegation to Mexico in 2018–2019, led by the Ministry of Economy, and our mission aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and explore avenues for economic cooperation.' Al Musharrkh also emphasised Sharjah's growing appeal to Mexican businesses, noting that the emirate hosts over 45 Mexican companies and imported goods worth 7 million dirhams from Mexico in 2024. 'Sharjah and Mexico may be miles apart, but our ambitions are aligned. We share a belief in innovation, entrepreneurship, and the power of collaboration to create lasting impact.' Sectoral opportunities and regional vision Rafael Villalona, started by noting the Council's first anniversary in the coming weeks and outlined the growth of Mexican enterprise in the country, stating, 'UAE-Mexico bilateral trade has doubled in recent years, reaching $2.5 billion in 2023, and revenues from CEMEX in the UAE alone have also risen from $70.1 million to over $180 million, while creating over 700 jobs.' However, he stressed untapped potential, identifying construction, automotive, and agriculture as priority sectors. Villalona also highlighted Mexico's automotive prowess-ranked fourth globally in auto parts production, as well as agricultural leadership. Sharjah as a gateway for growth A key part of the event was a panel discussion titled 'Why Sharjah? Opportunities Beyond Borders' featuring insights from Sharjah-based leaders and Mexican business pioneers. Mr. Issa Ataya, CEO of Alef Group, spotlighted Sharjah's thriving real estate sector, citing a 31.9% year-over-year surge in transactions to Dhs 13.2 billion ($3.6 billion) in Q1 2025. He linked this growth to regulatory reforms, such as allowing full foreign property ownership in designated areas, which drove a 25.3% rise in foreign investors (totaling 3,725). Ataya emphasised Sharjah's unique value, and highlighted Alef Group's lifestyle-centric projects like Hayyan and Al Mamsha as models for international investors. Khaleefa Al Hosani, Senior Vice President of SMEs at Emirates Development Bank, outlined financial mechanisms empowering businesses, including tailored loan programs and credit guarantees for SMEs. 'Sharjah's business and investment ecosystem is a launchpad for scalable ventures, and we have seen major growth in recent times' he stated, noting the bank's commitment to fostering innovation in sectors like manufacturing and renewable energy. Marwan Alichla, Director of Investment Promotion & Support at Invest in Sharjah, expanded on the emirate's strategic advantages, emphasising its connectivity to global markets, sector diversification, and business-friendly policies. He highlighted the strong support for investors and businesses, from setup to expansion, and also noted recent innovations with the launch of their AI powered trade licence which can be issued within 5 minutes. Sharjah's industrial and logistics hubs, such as Hamriyah Free Zone and Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park, as catalysts for cross-border collaboration. Leveraging UAE opportunities in energy, agriculture, and logistics The dialogue shifted to Mexican perspectives, with entrepreneurs outlining their UAE market strategies. Mr. Sergio De La Vega, CEO of Supercool, spoke about his company's sustainable efforts, saying, 'We have a strong focus on innovation in energy and mobility, and the UAE is a very strong player in the global energy sector. This country has a clear long-term vision, and the world's biggest solar farms and energy storage technologies are in this region.' Tirso Fidalgo Arias, CEO of Metatron, highlighted Sharjah's strategic importance in the region, noting that it offers an exceptional logistical hub for their operations. He explained that while shipping from Mexico to China typically takes three to four months, operating from the UAE allows Metatron to ship to China in as little as two weeks.
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Sharjah FDI Office holds ‘Sharjah-Mexico Business Roundtable'
The event was organised in collaboration with the Mexican Business Council and was attended by the Ambassador of Mexico to the UAE Luis Alfonso de Alba: This event signals the great potential to expand commercial ties between Sharjah and Mexico… potential is huge and the time is right. Mohamed Al Musharrkh: Sharjah and Mexico may be miles apart, but our ambitions are aligned. We share a belief in innovation, entrepreneurship, and the power of collaboration to create lasting impact. Sharjah: As the UAE and Mexico mark 50 years of diplomatic relations in 2025, the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) and the Mexican Business Council convened the 'Sharjah-Mexico Business Roundtable' at the House of Wisdom to identify strategic growth opportunities in SME financing, logistics, real estate, and automotive manufacturing; and explore the vast investment and commercial prospects Sharjah offers to businesses in Mexico and the wider Latin American and Caribbean markets. Attended by H.E. Luis Alfonso de Alba, Ambassador of Mexico to the UAE; H.E. Mohamed Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah; Mr. Rafael Villalona, President of the Mexican Business Council; and leading investors and entrepreneurs from both countries, the event underscored a shared vision for innovation-driven partnerships. As part of the agenda, a dedicated panel discussion titled 'Why Sharjah? Opportunities Beyond Borders' was held, during which participants examined Sharjah's competitive advantages, sectoral growth opportunities, and regulatory reforms, reaffirming a shared commitment to innovation, sustainable growth, and cross-regional investment. Diplomatic milestones and economic ambitions In his keynote address, H.E. Luis Alfonso de Alba, highlighted the significance of the roundtable as a precursor to the golden jubilee of bilateral relations. 'Sharjah has played a key role in strengthening the relationship between Mexico and the UAE,' he stated, citing Sharjah's participation as the guest of honor at the 2022 Guadalajara International Book Fair as a cultural milestone. 'This event we are having today signals the great potential to expand commercial ties between Sharjah and Mexico. I am certain this is only the beginning of a fruitful mutual relationship, potential is huge and the time is right.' Trade growth and strategic synergies H.E. Mohamed Al Musharrkh, echoed this optimism recalling his visit to the Central-American region, saying, 'I had the honour of being part of the UAE's official delegation to Mexico in 2018–2019, led by the Ministry of Economy, and our mission aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and explore avenues for economic cooperation.' Al Musharrkh also emphasised Sharjah's growing appeal to Mexican businesses, noting that the emirate hosts over 45 Mexican companies and imported goods worth 7 million dirhams from Mexico in 2024. 'Sharjah and Mexico may be miles apart, but our ambitions are aligned. We share a belief in innovation, entrepreneurship, and the power of collaboration to create lasting impact.' Sectoral opportunities and regional vision Mr. Rafael Villalona, started by noting the Council's first anniversary in the coming weeks and outlined the growth of Mexican enterprise in the country, stating, 'UAE-Mexico bilateral trade has doubled in recent years, reaching $2.5 billion in 2023, and revenues from CEMEX in the UAE alone have also risen from $70.1 million to over $180 million, while creating over 700 jobs.' However, he stressed untapped potential, identifying construction, automotive, and agriculture as priority sectors. Villalona also highlighted Mexico's automotive prowess-ranked fourth globally in auto parts production, as well as agricultural leadership. Sharjah as a gateway for growth A key part of the event was a panel discussion titled 'Why Sharjah? Opportunities Beyond Borders' featuring insights from Sharjah-based leaders and Mexican business pioneers. Mr. Issa Ataya, CEO of Alef Group, spotlighted Sharjah's thriving real estate sector, citing a 31.9% year-over-year surge in transactions to AED 13.2 billion ($3.6 billion) in Q1 2025. He linked this growth to regulatory reforms, such as allowing full foreign property ownership in designated areas, which drove a 25.3% rise in foreign investors (totaling 3,725). Ataya emphasised Sharjah's unique value, and highlighted Alef Group's lifestyle-centric projects like Hayyan and Al Mamsha as models for international investors. Mr. Khaleefa Al Hosani, Senior Vice President of SMEs at Emirates Development Bank, outlined financial mechanisms empowering businesses, including tailored loan programs and credit guarantees for SMEs. 'Sharjah's business and investment ecosystem is a launchpad for scalable ventures, and we have seen major growth in recent times' he stated, noting the bank's commitment to fostering innovation in sectors like manufacturing and renewable energy. Mr. Marwan Alichla, Director of Investment Promotion & Support at Invest in Sharjah, expanded on the emirate's strategic advantages, emphasising its connectivity to global markets, sector diversification, and business-friendly policies. He highlighted the strong support for investors and businesses, from setup to expansion, and also noted recent innovations with the launch of their AI powered trade licence which can be issued within 5 minutes. Sharjah's industrial and logistics hubs, such as Hamriyah Free Zone and Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park, as catalysts for cross-border collaboration. Leveraging UAE opportunities in energy, agriculture, and logistics The dialogue shifted to Mexican perspectives, with entrepreneurs outlining their UAE market strategies. Mr. Sergio De La Vega, CEO of Supercool, spoke about his company's sustainable efforts, saying, 'We have a strong focus on innovation in energy and mobility, and the UAE is a very strong player in the global energy sector. This country has a clear long-term vision, and the world's biggest solar farms and energy storage technologies are in this region.' Tirso Fidalgo Arias, CEO of Metatron, highlighted Sharjah's strategic importance in the region, noting that it offers an exceptional logistical hub for their operations. He explained that while shipping from Mexico to China typically takes three to four months, operating from the UAE allows Metatron to ship to China in as little as two weeks. Ms. Shaw Lash, chef and co-founder of Lila Taqueria, emphasised how Mexican gastronomy can foster partnerships, particularly in the agriculture sector. She highlighted that her team already sources produce from organic farms in the UAE, demonstrating the potential for collaboration and the adaptability of Mexican cuisine within the local context. As the roundtable concluded, participants expressed confidence in the roadmap ahead, and by leveraging synergies in high-potential sectors and fostering private-sector dialogue, both regions aim to write a new chapter in transcontinental collaboration; one defined by innovation, resilience, and mutual prosperity.
Gulf Today
17-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Invest in Sharjah and SRTIP explore investment opportunities at InnoEX
Under the banner of 'Innovate in Sharjah,' the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) and the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) participated in InnoEX 2025 in Hong Kong. The participation also explored avenues for collaboration in technology, innovation and research. The delegation presence highlighted the emirate's advanced infrastructure, business-friendly environment, and competitive edge in advanced industries. Held during Business of Innovation & Technology Week, InnoEX 2025 served as the ideal platform to showcase the new digital initiative, Innovate in Sharjah, a smart gateway connecting global innovators to Sharjah's infrastructure, laboratories, and research facilities. Themed around the launch of this service, the joint participation aimed to promote the platform to global stakeholders, reinforcing Sharjah's position as a regional hub for innovation and industrial development while supporting broader efforts to attract high-value investments across knowledge-based sectors. The delegation, led by H.E. Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah; Marwan Saleh Alichla, Director of Investment Promotion and Support at Invest in Sharjah; and Juma Abdulla Alhaj, Director of Strategic Communications and Marketing at SRTIP, also highlighted the emirate's innovation ecosystem, promote emerging opportunities for strategic partnerships with global and Asian tech stakeholders. InnoEX 2025 is a strategic global platform, bringing together business leaders, technology firms, FDI agencies, and enterprises from across Asia and international markets. The event is focused on strengthening cross-border economic partnerships and facilitating investment flows between Hong Kong and key regions, including the Gulf. This year's edition focused on emerging technologies, featuring advancements in generative AI, smart infrastructure, and bespoke digital solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises. Bridging East and West: Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, emphasised the growing strength of economic ties between Sharjah and Hong Kong, describing the relationship as a strategic alignment between two of the world's most vibrant commercial gateways. He noted the deepening commercial and investment ties between Sharjah and Asia's key commercial hubs, reflecting a broader UAE-Hong Kong economic relationship that saw bilateral trade exceed Dhs 54.7 billion by November 2024. Al Musharrkh commented: 'Sharjah offers direct access to high-growth regional markets, while Hong Kong remains a central entry point into Asia's trade and investment landscape. Both locations are underpinned by open, agile, and investor-friendly policies, creating an ideal environment for bilateral growth. This synergy positions the emirate and Hong Kong as natural partners in shaping the future of innovation-led investment.' For his part, Juma Abdulla Alhaj, Director of Strategic Communications and Marketing at SRTIP, highlighted the significance of participating in global forums like InnoEX 2025 to advance Sharjah's innovation agenda and international collaboration.
Zawya
17-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Invest in Sharjah and SRTIP showcase 'Innovate in Sharjah' platform; explore investment opportunities at InnoEX 2025
Mohamed Al Musharrkh: UAE-Hong Kong economic relationship saw bilateral trade exceed AED 54.7 billion by November 2024 Under the banner of "Innovate in Sharjah," the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) and the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) participated in InnoEX 2025 in Hong Kong. The participation also explored avenues for collaboration in technology, innovation and research. The delegation presence highlighted the emirate's advanced infrastructure, business-friendly environment, and competitive edge in advanced industries. Held during Business of Innovation & Technology Week, InnoEX 2025 served as the ideal platform to showcase the new digital initiative, Innovate in Sharjah, a smart gateway connecting global innovators to Sharjah's infrastructure, laboratories, and research facilities. Themed around the launch of this service, the joint participation aimed to promote the platform to global stakeholders, reinforcing Sharjah's position as a regional hub for innovation and industrial development while supporting broader efforts to attract high-value investments across knowledge-based sectors. The delegation, led by H.E. Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah; Marwan Saleh Alichla, Director of Investment Promotion and Support at Invest in Sharjah; and Juma Abdulla Alhaj, Director of Strategic Communications and Marketing at SRTIP, also highlighted the emirate's innovation ecosystem, promote emerging opportunities for strategic partnerships with global and Asian tech stakeholders. InnoEX 2025 is a strategic global platform, bringing together business leaders, technology firms, FDI agencies, and enterprises from across Asia and international markets. The event is focused on strengthening cross-border economic partnerships and facilitating investment flows between Hong Kong and key regions, including the Gulf. This year's edition focused on emerging technologies, featuring advancements in generative AI, smart infrastructure, and bespoke digital solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises. Bridging East and West H.E. Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, emphasised the growing strength of economic ties between Sharjah and Hong Kong, describing the relationship as a strategic alignment between two of the world's most vibrant commercial gateways. He noted the deepening commercial and investment ties between Sharjah and Asia's key commercial hubs, reflecting a broader UAE-Hong Kong economic relationship that saw bilateral trade exceed AED 54.7 billion by November 2024. Al Musharrkh commented: 'Sharjah offers direct access to high-growth regional markets, while Hong Kong remains a central entry point into Asia's trade and investment landscape. Both locations are underpinned by open, agile, and investor-friendly policies, creating an ideal environment for bilateral growth. This synergy positions the emirate and Hong Kong as natural partners in shaping the future of innovation-led investment.' For his part, Juma Abdulla Alhaj, Director of Strategic Communications and Marketing at SRTIP, highlighted the significance of participating in global forums like InnoEX 2025 to advance Sharjah's innovation agenda and international collaboration. Alhaj said: 'SRTIP's presence at InnoEX underscores our commitment to building global partnerships that drive technological progress and investment in future-focused sectors. With state-of-the-art laboratories, specialised research centres, and an expansive international network, SRTIP serves as a launchpad for developing and testing next-generation solutions. Hong Kong remains a key partner in this journey. Through continued collaboration, we aim to strengthen knowledge exchange and position Sharjah as a regional centre for innovation, smart technologies, and knowledge-based industries.' Connecting with Asia's innovation leaders Invest in Sharjah and SRTIP participated alongside leading global technology firms at InnoEX 2025, including Huawei, China Mobile, Tradelink, Novautek, and prominent Chinese research institutions. The event also hosted companies from Australia, Canada, France, Japan, Luxembourg, Macao, Thailand, the UAE, and the UK, reflecting its stature as a global convergence point for innovation and investment. As part of the participation, the Sharjah delegation visited the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, one of Asia's foremost innovation ecosystems. Spanning 330,000 sqm, the park hosts over 2,200 technology companies from 25 countries and regions, offering an integrated environment for research, entrepreneurship, and advanced industry development. The visit underscored Sharjah's commitment to fostering innovation through strategic partnerships that support investment into its free zones and technology parks. Discussions focused on collaboration in startup incubation and acceleration, as well as the potential for co-hosting industry events that promote entrepreneurship and knowledge exchange. The delegation also toured Cyberport, a leading government-led innovation hub that is central to nurturing Hong Kong's digital economy. As one of Asia's top incubators for startups and tech-driven enterprises, Cyberport offers a fertile ground for collaboration. The visit explored opportunities to drive investment in digital transformation and empower emerging innovators across both markets.
