SHARJAH, October 15, 2026: Government officials, investors and business leaders at the Sharjah Investment Forum 2026 have highlighted the need for investment policies that help companies expand, reinvest and sustain growth beyond their initial establishment.
Discussions at the ninth edition of the forum focused on how research, access to markets and institutional support can encourage businesses to commit capital for the long term. The emphasis placed company development at the centre of Sharjah’s efforts to strengthen its investment environment.
Supporting Companies Beyond Business Setup
Participants highlighted the importance of creating conditions that allow businesses to develop after entering a market. Alongside attracting new companies, discussions examined the support needed for existing investors to grow their operations and pursue further opportunities.
The forum brought together public and private sector representatives to consider how investment destinations can respond to changing business needs. Research capabilities, commercial connections and support from institutions featured among the factors shaping companies’ expansion decisions.
Minister Highlights Diversification and Productivity
Speaking at the opening, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, said economic resilience requires diversified sectors and markets, sound policies, and continued investment in people and technology.
He said the next stage of diversification should increase the economic value generated within individual sectors through wider use of technology and stronger productive capabilities.
According to figures presented by the minister, the UAE economy expanded by 6.2% in 2025, while non-oil GDP grew by 6.8%. Non-oil activities accounted for more than 79% of national GDP during the first half of 2026.
Sharjah Emphasises Lasting Investment Benefits
Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, chief executive of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority, Shurooq, outlined an approach that combines investor returns with lasting economic and social benefits.
He pointed to the Heart of Sharjah development as an example of using existing assets to generate new commercial activity. The project integrates restored heritage buildings and traditional markets into hospitality, cultural and business uses while preserving their character.
Al Qaseer said effective asset management and the ability to respond to changing conditions are central to maintaining economic resilience.
Investment Growth Provides Backdrop to Discussions
The forum comes amid increased foreign investment activity in the emirate. According to Invest in Sharjah data cited by Emirates News Agency, foreign direct investment projects attracted AED7.74 billion in capital investment during 2025 and generated 5,673 jobs.
The forum’s workshop programme also addressed practical business challenges, including supply chain resilience, tax compliance, commercial arbitration, women’s leadership and youth entrepreneurship. These sessions were designed to examine the skills and institutional capabilities companies need to compete and expand into international markets.
International Participation and Business Partnerships
Held on October 14–15 at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre, the forum was organised by the Sharjah FDI Office, Invest in Sharjah, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Investment.
Its programme included more than 80 speakers and over 140 activities, alongside business meetings intended to develop investment partnerships. Participants from more than 60 countries joined discussions covering economic policy, technology, trade and opportunities for business growth.
