Latest news with #HFZA
Sharjah 24
4 days ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SAIF Zone, ADNOC expand investor access to energy sector chances
The workshop aimed to introduce investors and businesses operating within the two free zones to the procedures for registering in ADNOC's approved supplier database. The event was held as part of the free zones' ongoing efforts to strengthen strategic partnerships and support the business community. The workshop was attended by Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of HFZA and SAIF Zone, Mubarak Al Mehairbi, Senior Vice President, Group Administration & Community Management Function at ADNOC, as well as a number of department managers, officials and employees from both sides, and a number of investors, entrepreneurs and representatives of local and international companies specialising in the energy sector. The gathering addressed key topics to raise awareness among companies regarding ADNOC's supplier registration requirements. As one of the world's leading energy companies, ADNOC outlined the commercial licensing procedures and regulatory requirements applicable in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, including the steps necessary to establish operations in the energy sector. The session covered the end-to-end supplier registration process, highlighting ADNOC's standards and evaluation criteria for selecting and qualifying suppliers. A comprehensive review was also presented on the company's policies and procedures to ensure compliance with its stringent quality and efficiency benchmarks. Additionally, the workshop discussed the 'Make it in the Emirates' initiative and its role in empowering national companies to actively participate in ADNOC's projects, thereby supporting domestic production capabilities. Building sustainable partnerships Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of HFZA and SAIF Zone, said, 'The partnership between Sharjah's free zones and ADNOC sets a benchmark for institutional integration, one that adds value to the national economy, drives sustainable development, and enhances the efficiency and competitiveness of national companies in strategic sectors. This initiative will reinforce our shared strategic vision with ADNOC, which aims to establish and strengthen impactful and sustainable partnerships that create high-value platforms for the growth and expansion of businesses operating in both free zones.' He continued, 'As part of our commitment to empowering investors with direct access to promising opportunities in the energy sector, one of the UAE's most vital industries, this workshop aimed to open the door for them to become active contributors to the national economic ecosystem and major strategic projects.' Al Mazrouei added: 'This collaboration will further build on the strong global reputation of Sharjah's free zones as a leading regional and international hub for energy and oil investments. It reflects the success of our integrated strategy to attract leading international investors by offering an ideal business environment as well as exceptional services, advanced infrastructure that meets global standards, and a strategic location that facilitates access to regional and international markets.' He also extended his thanks to ADNOC for its continued efforts and cooperation in making the workshop a success, noting that the event provided participants with a vital platform for fostering direct engagement and facilitating supplier integration into the value chain of one of the world's foremost energy companies. Enhancing strategic partnerships For his part, Mubarak Al Mehairbi, Senior Vice President, Group Administration & Community Management Function at ADNOC, stressed that ADNOC is committed to expanding its network of strategic partners and enhancing collaboration across various vital sectors in the UAE. He stated that the workshop, organized in collaboration with Hamriyah Free Zone and Sharjah Airport Free Zone, demonstrates ADNOC's keenness to enable the business community and investors to access growth and expansion opportunities within the ADNOC supply ecosystem. 'Transparency, excellence, and quality are the principles that guide our efforts to build long-term, sustainable relationships with suppliers,' Al Muhairbi said, while commending the two free zones for their role in delivering a valuable and informative session for companies and investors. He stressed the importance of such initiatives in developing an enabling business environment that promotes direct engagement and knowledge exchange, thereby accelerating the integration of both local and international companies into ADNOC's major energy projects, while supporting the UAE's economic development journey. Commitment to governance standards The workshop witnessed strong engagement from participants, who raised different queries and received detailed responses on ADNOC's registration and qualification processes. Discussions delved into the various phases of the supplier onboarding journey, from initial registration through to final accreditation, while highlighting the importance of adherence to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. These standards constitute a fundamental pillar of ADNOC's institutional framework and align closely with the UAE's vision for sustainable development, ensuring that local and regional companies are well-positioned to fully leverage the vast opportunities presented by the nation's large-scale energy projects.
Khaleej Times
4 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Sharjah free zones team up with Adnoc to unlock investor opportunities
In a significant move to enhance investor access to the UAE's vital energy sector, Sharjah's two major free zones have joined forces with the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc). The initiative, marked by a high-level workshop held by Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) and Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (Saif Zone) in collaboration with Adnoc, aims to streamline investor integration into the national oil and gas value chain and open the doors for businesses in the free zones to directly participate in strategic energy projects. The initiative reflects a broader national push to strengthen institutional linkages between free zones and key industrial sectors such as energy, which continues to be the backbone of the UAE economy. The workshop introduced companies operating within HFZA and Saif Zone to Adnoc's stringent supplier registration processes and qualification standards, enabling them to become verified vendors capable of bidding for contracts across the company's vast project portfolio. Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, director of both HFZA and Saif Zone, described the partnership as a landmark in institutional integration. 'This collaboration sets a benchmark for national synergy. It aligns with our shared vision of establishing sustainable and impactful partnerships that empower our investors, while enhancing the competitiveness of national enterprises,' he said. 'By facilitating direct access to Adnoc's supply chain, we are providing our investors with valuable opportunities to contribute to the UAE's energy ambitions.' Al Mazrouei underlined Sharjah's emergence as a regional hub for oil and gas investments, citing its state-of-the-art infrastructure, investor-friendly policies, and strategic location. He noted that the emirate's free zones have gained global traction by offering international investors a platform that combines ease of doing business with advanced logistics and regulatory frameworks aligned with global standards. Mubarak Al Mehairbi, senior vice president at Adnoc, echoed the sentiment, emphasising Adnoc's commitment to building a robust ecosystem of suppliers that share its values of transparency, quality, and sustainability. 'Our engagement with HFZA and Saif Zone reflects Adnoc's dedication to expanding its network of capable partners who can meet the growing demands of the energy sector,' he said. 'Workshops like this help bridge gaps between policy and practice, accelerating supplier onboarding and empowering businesses to become part of the UAE's strategic energy journey.' He noted that such initiatives also reinforce the UAE's industrial growth agenda through the 'Make it in the Emirates' campaign, which encourages local manufacturing and participation in high-value projects. The workshop focused on a detailed walkthrough of the Adnoc supplier registration process, offering insights into licensing, qualification, and compliance requirements. Sessions also addressed commercial regulations specific to Abu Dhabi, as well as Adnoc's quality benchmarks and evaluation criteria. Attendees were briefed on the importance of aligning with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) protocols—now a non-negotiable criterion in all of Adnoc's partnerships. Sharjah's two free zones collectively host more than 15,000 companies from over 165 countries, across sectors including energy, manufacturing, logistics, and services. Both HFZA and Saif Zone offer full foreign ownership, 100 per cent repatriation of profits, zero import or re-export duties, and fast-track licensing, making them attractive gateways for international energy investors. Free zones across the UAE have been playing a growing role in supporting national strategic goals. According to the UAE Ministry of Economy, there are over 45 free zones operating across the country, contributing nearly 30 per cent to non-oil trade and playing a central role in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI). In 2023, FDI into the UAE reached $23 billion, with a sizable share channelled through free zones. Sharjah's free zones, in particular, have been proactive in adapting to evolving investor needs. The new Adnoc partnership is part of a broader strategy to deepen their engagement with strategic sectors, helping companies access procurement pipelines, innovation clusters, and industrial projects linked to the UAE's long-term energy and economic diversification plans. The workshop concluded with an open dialogue session, where participants had the opportunity to seek clarifications on the registration and accreditation process. The interaction highlighted growing investor interest in aligning with national energy goals and participating in Adnoc's multi-billion-dollar project ecosystem.
Sharjah 24
06-07-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SAIF Zone honoured four times at 6th Financial Performance Award
The awards recognise both free zones for upholding the highest standards in financial and tax management, transparency, compliance, and governance. Hamriyah Free Zone Authority was named the Leading Independent Entity in applying revenue standards, while SAIF Zone received the Leading Independent Entity award for excellence in implementing accounting and tax standards. In the individual categories, Mohammed Al Marzooqi from SAIF Zone was honoured as Outstanding New Financial Employee from Independent Entities, and Dhiju Balakrishnan, Financial Planning and Analysis from HFZA, was awarded Outstanding Tax Analyst for Independent Entities. Sound governance principles Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of Hamriyah Free Zone Authority and Sharjah Airport International Free Zone Authority, stated that receiving these awards is a true testament to the ongoing efforts to enhance financial and administrative systems in line with the highest international standards. Al Mazrouei emphasised that the two entities are committed to building an integrated, efficient, and transparent framework in full compliance with financial and tax regulations as well as sound governance principles. This achievement, he noted, was made possible thanks to the continuous support of Sheikh Khaled bin Abdullah bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority, whose close oversight of the two authorities' operations has been instrumental in their success. Al Mazrouei further noted that this honour demonstrates the keenness of both free zones to adopt smart systems and ensure financial and operational sustainability, key pillars in improving the investor experience, thereby supporting the sustainable economic development goals of the Emirate of Sharjah. He extended his gratitude to the Steering Committee and the Sharjah Finance Department for this recognition. His Excellency reaffirmed that HFZA and SAIF Zone will continue striving for excellence by upholding the highest standards of governance and advanced financial management. This is not only to strengthen investor confidence, both locally and internationally, but also to attract high-quality, diversified investments that solidify the free zones' position as leading economic and investment hubs on the regional and global stage. The current edition of the Financial Excellence Performance Award witnessed remarkable participation from over 60 government and independent entities, along with more than 700 financial professionals. Participants competed across various institutional and individual award categories, reflecting the strong culture of financial excellence in the Emirate of Sharjah. The award continues to play a vital role in enhancing the capabilities of both individuals and institutions while contributing to the overall improvement of financial sector performance.
Zawya
06-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Sharjah Free Zones win four prestigious honours at 6th Financial Excellence Performance Award
Sharjah: The Sharjah Airport International Free Zone Authority (SAIF Zone) and Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) have received four prestigious accolades at the 6th Financial Excellence Performance Award for 2024–2025, organised by the Sharjah Finance Department (SFD). The awards recognise both free zones for upholding the highest standards in financial and tax management, transparency, compliance, and governance. Hamriyah Free Zone Authority was named the Leading Independent Entity in applying revenue standards, while SAIF Zone received the Leading Independent Entity award for excellence in implementing accounting and tax standards. In the individual categories, Mohammed Al Marzooqi from SAIF Zone was honoured as Outstanding New Financial Employee from Independent Entities, and Dhiju Balakrishnan, Financial Planning and Analysis from HFZA, was awarded Outstanding Tax Analyst for Independent Entities. Sound governance principles His Excellency Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of Hamriyah Free Zone Authority and Sharjah Airport International Free Zone Authority, stated that receiving these awards is a true testament to the ongoing efforts to enhance financial and administrative systems in line with the highest international standards. Al Mazrouei emphasised that the two entities are committed to building an integrated, efficient, and transparent framework in full compliance with financial and tax regulations as well as sound governance principles. This achievement, he noted, was made possible thanks to the continuous support of Sheikh Khaled bin Abdullah bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority, whose close oversight of the two authorities' operations has been instrumental in their success. Al Mazrouei further noted that this honour demonstrates the keenness of both free zones to adopt smart systems and ensure financial and operational sustainability, key pillars in improving the investor experience, thereby supporting the sustainable economic development goals of the Emirate of Sharjah. He extended his gratitude to the Steering Committee and the Sharjah Finance Department for this recognition. His Excellency reaffirmed that HFZA and SAIF Zone will continue striving for excellence by upholding the highest standards of governance and advanced financial management. This is not only to strengthen investor confidence, both locally and internationally, but also to attract high-quality, diversified investments that solidify the free zones' position as leading economic and investment hubs on the regional and global stage. The current edition of the Financial Excellence Performance Award witnessed remarkable participation from over 60 government and independent entities, along with more than 700 financial professionals. Participants competed across various institutional and individual award categories, reflecting the strong culture of financial excellence in the Emirate of Sharjah. The award continues to play a vital role in enhancing the capabilities of both individuals and institutions while contributing to the overall improvement of financial sector performance. For further information, please contact: - Ali Elgendy Misbar Communications ali@ Ahmad Aldwairi Misbar Communications
Zawya
24-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Saud Salim Al Mazrouei wins Most Innovative Leader of the Year at Stevie Awards 2025
Al Mazrouei: This accolade is a testament to the achievements of the two free zones made possible thanks to the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. UAE: His Excellency Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of the Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) and the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone), has been honoured at the 2025 Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, receiving silver in the "Most Innovative Leader of the Year" category and bronze for "Innovative Achievement in Thought Leadership." The Stevie Awards, one of the most prestigious globally, honoured Al Mazrouei in recognition of his excellence in leading strategic projects that promote sustainable economic development. His expertise in managing Sharjah free zones has helped attract more than 15,000 companies from 160 countries, reinforcing their status as top investment hubs in the region and beyond. Al Mazrouei was selected from a pool of more than 1,100 nominees representing 13 countries. The awards ceremony, held at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Ras Al Khaimah under the patronage of the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce, featured a distinguished judging panel composed of global business and economic experts. The judging process involved a detailed and detailed set of criteria to evaluate the creativity and real-world impact of leadership practices implemented by institutions and individuals, ensuring that only those with the highest standards of excellence and innovation were chosen as winners. Al Mazrouei received the honour from Michael Gallagher, Executive Chairman of the Stevie Awards in the presence of senior government officials, private sector representatives, and members of the press. Outstanding achievement His Excellency Saud Salim Al Mazrouei emphasised that winning the Stevie Awards is a testament to the collective efforts of the teams at both HFZA and SAIF Zone. 'This prestigious recognition will further reinforce our commitment to adopting cutting-edge practices, fostering innovation, and striving for excellence in managing the two free zones. From creating a model investment environment to delivering world-class services that streamline business operations, the free zones have set a benchmark for global competitiveness,' Al Mazrouei said. 'This achievement would not have been possible had it not been for the wise vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and his ongoing support for the development of the Emirate's free zones.' Leading global destination His Excellency noted that HFZA and SAIF Zone achieved significant milestones last year, attracting more than 1,600 companies from across the globe. 'This recognition is more than just an award—it's a motivation to keep pushing forward, strengthening Sharjah's position as a global leader in free zones and innovative services. It also reaffirms the emirate's role as a key economic powerhouse, known for its remarkable diversification. I sincerely appreciate the Stevie Awards organising committee, the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce, and the jury for this honour. Our commitment to investors, along with our drive for innovation and excellence, will continue to guide us as we enhance our services and introduce new, forward-thinking initiatives.' Al Mazrouei added. Earlier in 2024, the Hamriyah Free Zone Authority earned three prestigious global accolades at the 11th edition of the Global Free Zones of the Year awards 2024 by fDi Intelligence, affiliated with the Financial Times. HFZA has ranked second as the best free zone globally in 2024, winning the Global Free Zone of the Year Award. In addition, HFZA received high commendations in two key categories: Highly Commended Industrial Free Zone—Middle East and Highly Commended Industrial Free Zone—Globally. Global award Established in 2002, the Stevie Awards is one of the world's leading business awards, recognizing the outstanding achievements and contributions of organizations and individuals globally. It has become one of the most prestigious awards worldwide, with a jury comprising over 200 executives, entrepreneurs, and experts from various industries. The organization is headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia, USA. It manages several international business awards programs, including the Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, which specifically cater to businesses and professionals in the MENA region. This year, the competition was fiercer than ever, with a record 1,100 nominees vying for top honours across more than 150 categories. These categories cover a broad spectrum, including achievements and innovations, institutional excellence, public relations and corporate communications, customer service and human resources, individual and organisational accomplishments, live and virtual events, social media, management and technology, sustainability, thought leadership, and many more. -Ends- Ahmad Dwairi: Misbar Communications Nermin Fodah: Misbar Communications nermin@
