Latest news with #Shurooq
Gulf Business
17 hours ago
- Business
- Gulf Business
Sharjah sees 25% rise in foreign real estate investment, says Shurooq
Sharjah's property sector recorded more than 25 per cent increase in foreign investment in the first quarter of 2025, driven by growing interest in freehold ownership, long-term visa options, and strategically located projects such as Ajwan Khorfakkan. This is according to the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). 'Sharjah is building a strong momentum for freehold ownership, boosted by Shurooq,' said Yousif Ahmed Al-Mutawa, chief real estate Officer at Shurooq. 'The Ajwan launch in Khorfakkan reflects the demand for freehold designated projects, where international and regional buyers can invest.' Official figures support the trend. According to WAM , the total value of real estate deals in Sharjah surged to AED 13.2 billion in the first quarter of 2025—a sharp 31.9 percent rise from the AED 10 billion recorded during the same period last year. Al-Mutawa noted that Sharjah's combination of a stable regulatory environment, affordable luxury, and cultural authenticity has strengthened its investment appeal. 'Sharjah's stable regulatory environment, long-term visas, its affordable luxury value proposition, and the increasing global appetite for culturally rich, well-planned destinations adds to its appeal,' he said. Related news: To build on this momentum, Shurooq is expanding its international outreach and investor engagement strategy. 'At Shurooq, we are doubling down on international outreach, strategic partnerships, and high-impact developments that reflect investor priorities – these could be long-term capital appreciation, rental yield, or alignment with ESG principles,' Al-Mutawa said. The group is currently driving several new developments in Khorfakkan, a coastal city on Sharjah's eastern seaboard, which is emerging as a new real estate and tourism hotspot. 'We've seen strong interest in our upcoming project, Ajwan Khorfakkan, where nearly 80 per cent of the units in the first four buildings — Saahil, Al Joon, Mawj, and Ghadeer — have already been sold,' said Al-Mutawa. 'Two additional buildings will be launched soon.' Infrastructure development and government backing are helping unlock the real estate potential of the region. 'Infrastructure improvements, growing tourism, and strong government backing for the eastern region are converging to create a compelling investment opportunity,' he said. Al-Mutawa, who recently assumed his role at Shurooq, said his immediate priority is to align real estate strategy with Sharjah's broader economic diversification goals. 'We're focusing on three key areas: activating high-potential locations across the emirate such as Khorfakkan, enhancing investor confidence through regulatory clarity and transparency, and developing integrated communities that reflect Sharjah's cultural identity and commitment to quality of life.' He added: 'Shurooq is helping shape the future of Sharjah's real estate.'
Sharjah 24
23-06-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
New mascot 'Shamsa' adds a playful spirit to summer campaign
Campaign details and duration The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), in collaboration with the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), announced that Sharjah Summer Promotions 2025 will run from July 1 to September 1, with participation from over 1,000 retail outlets across the emirate. Strategic vision and economic goals During the launch event, officials emphasised the campaign's role in enhancing Sharjah's reputation as a shopping and tourism hub. Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of SCCI, stated that the initiative supports Sharjah's strategic goal to become a top retail and tourism destination. He highlighted that retail sales in the UAE are projected to exceed AED 417.6 billion by 2026, and this campaign is designed to help local businesses benefit from this growth. Unified collaboration across sectors This year's campaign reflects a strategic partnership between government and private sectors. Joint efforts aim to integrate retail promotions, hospitality offers, and entertainment activities under one platform, creating a vibrant and cohesive summer programme. Discounts, prizes, and promotions Consumers can enjoy discounts of up to 75% on a wide range of products and brands. Shoppers and hotel guests will also be eligible for raffle draws, with prizes including shopping vouchers, gold bars, and premium giveaways. Over 35 hotel packages from 23 hotel establishments offer special rates and additional benefits like free tourist attraction tickets and hotel credits. Press conference highlights The official announcement was made at the Sharjah Chamber headquarters on June 23, 2025. Key attendees included Abdallah Sultan Al Owais (SCCI), Khalid Jasim Al Midfa (SCTDA), Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer (Shurooq), Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi (SCCI Director-General). Other representatives from public and private partner entities also participated. Digital access and smart engagement To enhance user experience, a smart mobile application and an integrated digital platform have been launched. Users can view offers, book hotel stays, and enter electronic raffle draws directly via the website or app. Diverse programming across the emirate The event will feature over 75 summer offerings in partnership with various entities such as Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Sharjah Museums Authority, Environment and Protected Areas Authority, Sharjah Art Foundation, and Sharjah International Marine Sports Club. Programming includes educational workshops, summer camps, and marine activities in Khorfakkan, as well as weekly children's events. Tourism and cultural development support Khalid Jasim Al Midfa emphasised that the campaign is more than a seasonal event — it is part of Sharjah's broader strategic vision to attract local and international visitors year-round. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer added that the campaign reflects Shurooq's goal of positioning Sharjah as a top-tier summer destination built on diversity, sustainability, and service excellence. Driving economic impact through retail and tourism According to Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, promotional campaigns like this are vital to Sharjah's economy. By combining retail, tourism, hospitality, and culture, the campaign contributes significantly to the emirate's GDP and supports business growth.
Zawya
23-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
SCCI, SCTDA launch Sharjah Summer Promotions 2025 on July 1, introduce new mascot character 'Shamsa'
Sharjah, The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), in cooperation with the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), announced the launch of the 2025 edition of 'Sharjah Summer Promotions', which will run from July 1 to September 1. Considered the most prominent events on Sharjah's economic and tourism agenda, the promotion will feature the participation of over 1,000 retail outlets across all cities and regions of the emirate. It is organized in collaboration with SCCI's Shopping Malls Sector Business Group and in coordination with several concerned government entities within the emirate. This year, Sharjah Summer Promotions is introducing 'Shamsa', a newly launched mascot character designed to enhance the campaign's appeal to families and children. As the official promotional icon, Shamsa represents a renewed focus on interactive and family-oriented entertainment, reinforcing Sharjah's strategic positioning as a leading commercial, tourism, and family-friendly destination. The announcement was made during a press conference held on Monday at the Sharjah Chamber's headquarters. The event was attended by H.E Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of SCCI; H.E Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA; and H.E Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). Also present were H.E Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of SCCI; Jamal Bouzanjal, General Coordinator of Sharjah Shopping Promotions; Abdullah Al Baloushi, Head of SCCI's Shopping Malls Sector Business Group; and Fadi Musharafieh, Head of SCCI's Hotel Sector Business Group, as well as several representatives from partner organizations and government bodies in the emirate. The press conference outlined the strategic vision and goals of Sharjah Summer Promotions, jointly organized by SCCI's Shopping Malls Sector Business Group in coordination with several concerned government entities within the emirate. This strategic partnership reflects a unified approach to integrating retail promotions, hospitality offers, and entertainment activities under a single platform. Its objective is to create a memorable summer shopping season for all family members, supported by a wide range of offers across Sharjah's major tourist attractions and family entertainment destinations. In his remarks, H.E Abdallah Sultan Al Owais stated that 'Sharjah Summer Promotions' embodies the Sharjah Chamber's forward-looking vision, inspired by the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed AlQasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to solidify the emirate's status as a premier shopping destination and tourist attraction. He elucidated that the campaign supports ongoing efforts to strengthen the retail and tourism sectors as two key pillars of Sharjah's economic structure. 'Sharjah Summer Promotions not only benefits consumers but also represents a strategic platform that contributes to economic growth, especially as retail sales in the UAE are forecast to surpass AED 417.6 billion by 2026. Through this platform, the Sharjah Chamber and its partners aim to empower the business community to benefit from and contribute to this economic progress,' Al Owais added. Commenting on the campaign, H.E Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, said: "Every year, we renew our commitment to offering a comprehensive summer experience that enriches the tourism sector and enhances the appeal of the Emirate of Sharjah locally, regionally, and globally. The 'Sharjah Summer Promotions 2025' campaign builds on the success of the previous edition, and through it, we aim to support our partners from both public and private sectors, while encouraging visits to tourist, cultural, and entertainment destinations in line with our vision to establish Sharjah as a vibrant destination throughout the year.' He added: 'This campaign is not merely a seasonal initiative but rather a reflection of our strategic vision, which focuses on strengthening collaboration across various sectors and achieving integration in delivering exceptional tourism experiences. We are confident that the 'Sharjah Summer Promotions 2025' will contribute to attracting more visitors, supporting the local economy, and solidifying the emirate's position as one of the leading tourist destinations in the region and the world." For his part, H.E Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer said that Sharjah Summer 2025 campaign reflects Shurooq's strategic vision to position the emirate as a leading and competitive summer destination in the UAE and the wider region. It offers a well-rounded tourism experience centered around diversity, sustainability, and service excellence. 'Designed to meet the expectations of travelers of all ages, the campaign embodies Sharjah's commitment to delivering a dynamic tourism ecosystem that blends authenticity with innovation. It spans a wide range of hospitality assets and integrated destinations developed by Shurooq across Sharjah, Khorfakkan, Kalba, and other key locations — reinforcing the emirate's tourism infrastructure and driving sustained growth across both the tourism and hospitality sectors,' he added. Meanwhile, H.E Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi noted that promotional campaigns play an active role in revitalizing Sharjah's tourism sector, offering visitors an integrated experience that combines retail with cultural, family, and hospitality offerings. He emphasized that the Sharjah Chamber and its partners are committed to making the Summer Promotions a comprehensive marketing initiative that drives economic value and boosts the contribution of both the retail and tourism sectors to the emirate's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). As part of Sharjah Summer Promotions 2025 program, organizers introduced a newly designed child-friendly cartoon character dubbed 'Shamsa' which is created to bring a cheerful and lively spirit to the promotional campaign. Derived from the Arabic word 'shams' meaning sun, the mascot represents brightness, optimism, and creativity. Shamsa is positioned as a central element of Summer Promotions 2025's entertainment offering, which features a variety of recreational activities, artistic workshops, games, and live performances tailored to young audiences. As a key feature of this year's edition of Sharjah Summer Promotions, the Sharjah Chamber will organize an interactive children's festival titled 'Shamsa Entertainment City', set to be held at Expo Centre Sharjah from July 15 to August 15. The festival is designed to offer an enjoyable experience for both children and their families, featuring a blend of games, recreational activities, and entertainment events. With a dedicated play area for children and diverse culinary offerings, the festival aims to attract families seeking a vibrant and festive summer atmosphere. Aisha Saleh, Director of Festivals and Promotions Department at SCCI and official spokesperson for Sharjah Summer Promotions, presented an overview of this year's program, highlighting the extensive participation of key shopping centers and retail stores throughout the emirate. Running over a two-month period, the Sharjah Summer Promotions 2025 program includes an extensive lineup of promotional events, with a strong focus on large-scale discounts, reaching up to 75 percent across a broad selection of products and top local and global brands. This year's promotions include valuable prizes and raffle draws, with shopping vouchers for both retail customers and hotel guests, in addition to gold bars. Participating malls, central markets, and retail outlets across Sharjah have also allocated a wide selection of premium prizes, gifts and giveaways to enhance the overall shopping experience. The press conference featured remarks from campaign partners and a comprehensive overview of the exclusive offerings available across 19 summer destinations. Participating shopping centers and markets will introduce engaging promotions supported by an entertainment program and 6 scheduled raffle draws. The program also encompasses various entertainment events, retail offers, and hotel deals, with over 35 hotel packages provided by 23 hotel establishments. These packages include discounted rates on accommodation, dining, and beverages. Additionally, guests can enjoy complimentary tickets to popular tourist destinations in Sharjah, along with free credit for use at various hotel facilities. 'Sharjah Summer Promotions' features this year over 75 summer offerings including entertainment events, educational workshops, summer camps, and a wide range of family-friendly experiences. These are organized in collaboration with the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Sharjah Museums Authority, Environment and Protected Areas Authority, Sharjah Art Foundation, Sharjah International Marine Sports Club, and commercial shopping centers. The schedule also includes weekly children's workshops and recreational events, in addition to marine activities hosted in the city of Khorfakkan. Sharjah Summer Promotions will introduce a smart application enabling users to participate in electronic raffle draws. The organizing committee has also launched an integrated digital platform at providing a full overview of all offers, discount packages, and services provided by event partners. The website includes direct booking links for hotels, shopping malls, entertainment programs, destination experiences, and more. Customers who make purchases at participating shopping centers or book hotel stays in Sharjah through the website will be eligible to enter raffles and win valuable prizes.
Entrepreneur
16-06-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Purposeful Investment: Inside Shurooq's Model of Enterprise-Driven Development
You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. In a region defined by rapid growth and high-stakes ambition, the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has charted a distinct course—one built on measured resilience, long-term value, and economic diversification that places people and purpose at the centre of progress. FROM CAPITAL PROJECTS TO CAPITAL CONFIDENCE Fifteen years since its establishment, Shurooq's portfolio spans AED 7.2 billion in total investments and partnerships across 52 integrated developments. But to reduce its story to numbers would be to overlook its real achievement: building an economy where purpose, perfor mance, and people align. Across real estate, tourism, cultural development, and commercial infrastructure, Shurooq has consis tently prioritized value over volume. Each investment is designed not just to fill space, but to fill gaps — in opportunity, employment, sustain ability, and competitiveness. Image source: Shurooq "True development is not measured by concrete alone," says H.E Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq. "It's measured by the confidence we generate — among investors, entrepreneurs, visitors, and our own people. That trust is our most valuable return." This philosophy has shaped how Shurooq oper ates. It has created over 5,000 jobs across sectors and formed more than 10 joint ventures, building platforms that invite both local enterprise and global investment. Its real estate developments alone have attracted buyers from nearly 100 countries, reflecting the emirate's growing appeal as a stable, opportunity-rich market. A PLATFORM AP PROACH TO ECONOMIC GROWTH Shurooq's impact isn't measured solely by projects completed or revenue generated. Its true legacy lies in the commer cial ecosystems it has enabled—particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which now form the backbone of the UAE's economic agenda. Unlike accelerators or incubators, Shurooq doesn't provide direct mentorship or funding. Instead, it builds the destinations that serve as the platforms on which entrepreneurs can succeed. From leisure and tourism destinations to revitalized heritage quarters, each Shurooq asset is developed with commercial visibility, footfall, and long-term access in mind. Today, over 600 busi nesses operate across Shurooq-managed destinations. Image source: Shurooq Among them: 87 SMEs and nearly 300 women-led enterprises, active in sectors ranging from artisanal crafts to boutique hospitality. These businesses aren't posi tioned on the periphery— they are woven into the very fabric of Sharjah's cultural, tourism, and retail assets. This is particularly visible at places like Al Heera Beach, Al Qasba, Al Majaz ing with incubators or SME-focused entities, it complements them—offer ing built environments that facilitate access, footfall, and operational viability. Working closely with Waterfront, Khorfakkan Beach, and the Heart of Sharjah, where hundreds of local vendors and creatives run outlets, design studios, and F&B concepts. In Shurooq's model, place-making is not a backdrop to enterprise—it is the foundation of it. INFRASTRUCTURE AS EMPOWERMENT What differentiates Shurooq from traditional development entities is its infrastructure-led approach to empower ment. Instead of compet semi-government entities, Shurooq ensures that entrepreneurs operating within its destinations benefit from fast-tracked licensing, regulatory ease, and business support services. "We are the platform builders. Others deliver capacity-building. Together, we support long-term enterprise growth," says Al Qaseer. This collaborative model is bearing measurable results. In the 2024 Global Startup Ecosystem Report, Sharjah ranked 4th in the GCC and 7th in the MENA region—an indication that the emirate is gaining recognition not just for infrastructure quality, but for its start-up friendli ness and business accessibility. Image source: Shurooq BUILDING WITH VISION, LEADING WITH PURPOSE Shurooq's development philosophy has always been guided by Sharjah's broader vision—anchored by the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and the leader ship of H.E. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq. Under their guidance, the Authority has embraced long-term thinking over short-term gain, focusing on sustain able sectors that serve both economic and societal goals. Its real estate investments have delivered returns without inflating risk. Its hospitality assets, including the eco-driven Sharjah Collection, have married tourism with SME integration. And through destinations that welcome both global investors and local artisans, Shurooq has proven that sustainability and profitability can move in lockstep Through the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), its dedicated FDI arm, Shurooq has attracted AED 96.75 billion in capital since 2016, across 617 projects, contributing to 46,761 new jobs. Yet beyond the statistics, Shurooq's leadership remains focused on one thing: creating a develop ment legacy that enables others to grow. Image source: Shurooq WHAT COMES NEXT As the world recalibrates its economic assumptions, Shurooq continues to prioritise integration, circular economies, and enterprise access. New developments will carry forward the same principles that defined the last 15 years—accessibility, heritage, environmental consciousness, and inclusivity—while embrac ing innovation and entrepreneurship at their core. In the words of H.E Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, "The real return on investment is not in what we build, but in what we enable—jobs, ideas, partnerships, and long-term confidence. That's the business Shurooq is in." For entrepreneurs looking not only for capital or incubation, but for a place to grow their vision—the path, quite literally, runs through Sharjah. Related: UAE-Based Shurooq Marks 15 Years Of Growth With AED7.2 Billion In Investments And Partnerships Across 52 Projects
Gulf Today
05-06-2025
- Gulf Today
Mleiha National Park records over 100 species of flora, fauna
Mleiha National Park has conducted an ecological assessment, recording the presence of 100+ distinct species within its protected desert landscape. These include 20+ bird species, 10+ reptile species, 11 mammal species, 39 insect and arachnid species, and 20+ native plant species solidifying Mleiha's position as one of the most ecologically rich and diverse environments in the Arabian Peninsula. Mleiha National Park, an ecological, ecotourism, and conservation destination in the heart of Sharjah's central region, spans 34.2 square kilometres of protected desert terrain and is operated by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). Established by Emiri decree, Mleiha has become a living desert museum, home to rare fossils, ancient artefacts, and thriving biodiversity. These findings affirm its role as a cornerstone of Sharjah's long-term strategy for conservation, eco-tourism, and sustainable development. Mleiha National Park Ecological engineers of the desert With 20+ documented native plant species, Mleiha's flora is not only diverse but essential to the park's ecosystem. These plants have evolved to withstand extreme arid conditions, playing critical roles in desert resilience. Key species such as the Ghaf Tree (Prosopis cineraria), Umbrella Thorn Acacia (Vachellia tortilis), and Sodom's Apple (Calotropis procera) contribute to soil stabilisation, regulate moisture retention, and create microhabitats for smaller species. Other important flora like Dune Grass and Arfaj help anchor sand dunes and provide seasonal fodder for herbivores. Mammals, reptiles and birds The fauna of Mleiha includes 11+ species of mammals adapted to desert conditions, including the Arabian Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes arabica) and Sand Gazelle (Gazella marica). Among its 10 reptile species are elusive desert dwellers like the Sandfish Skink (Scincus mitranus) and the Arabian Horned Viper (Cerastes gasperettii). The biodiversity of Mleiha National Park is a natural capital that drives tourism. Birdwatchers can observe 20+ species of birds year-round, including Bonelli's Eagle (Aquila fasciata), Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus), Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), and migratory visitors that use Mleiha as a seasonal stopover. Insects and arachnids With 39+ identified species, the park's insect and arachnid population includes key contributors to pollination, soil health, and natural pest control. These invertebrates form the foundation of many food chains within the park. The fauna of Mleiha includes over 11 species of mammals, including the Arabian Red Fox. Highlights include the Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa pubescens), one of the largest native bees and a vital pollinator; the venomous Arabian Fat-Tailed Scorpion (Androctonus crassicauda), a desert predator; and the Blue Pansy Butterfly (Junonia orithya), which plays a seasonal role in pollination. Lesser-known species like antlions, ground mantises, and camel spiders also contribute to the delicate ecological balance. Public engagement and education Visitors to Mleiha can experience this biodiversity through curated activities such as nature trails, fossil and flora walks, and wildlife observation. These programmes are central to the park's mission to promote environmental awareness and support the UAE's long-term sustainability goals. Biodiversity as a growth asset 'What makes Mleiha exceptional is its ability to merge ecological significance with economic value,' said Omar Jasim Al Ali, Manager, Mleiha and Strategic Projects. 'The biodiversity of this landscape is a natural capital that drives tourism, supports conservation-linked livelihoods, and enhances Sharjah's reputation as a regional leader in sustainable development. Protecting and showcasing these species responsibly is both an environmental responsibility and a long-term economic strategy.' Mleiha National Park remains open year-round, welcoming nature lovers, researchers, students, and travellers to discover the rich biodiversity of the UAE's inland desert.
