The مهرجان روّاد is set to return to Sharjah from January 7 to 11, 2026, promising an exciting showcase of 40 entrepreneurial projects. Organized by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Support Foundation “روّاد,” this year’s festival will take place at the outdoor garden of the House of Wisdom. Featuring various innovative initiatives, it aims to bring together a diverse mix of businesses in a vibrant atmosphere that emphasizes creativity and community engagement.
According to a statement from Fathma Al Ali, acting director of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Support Foundation, the مهرجان روّاد aims to bolster member projects by offering them free, prominent spaces to showcase their services and products. The event will spotlight 30 commercial ventures and holders of the “I’atamad” license, along with 10 innovative food projects, showcasing the region’s dynamic entrepreneurial landscape.
The festival will kick off with an opening ceremony at 5 PM on Wednesday, attended by prominent officials, including H.E. Hamad Ali Abdullah Al Mahmoud, head of the Department of Economic Development, along with senior managers and stakeholders in the national entrepreneurship sector. Visitors can look forward to an engaging five days filled with local brands and businesses, with dedicated booths for sales and exclusive areas for VIPs.
Al Ali highlighted that the venue has been designed to reflect the theme of “Tales from Sharjah,” embodying the spirit and heritage of the emirate while enhancing its contemporary aspirations. Throughout the event, guests will have the opportunity to participate in live demonstrations of selected culinary projects, offering a unique blend of creativity and passion that defines the local entrepreneurial scene.
Moreover, the مهرجان روّاد will feature an interactive experience platform, allowing attendees to engage directly with exhibitors. These sessions will last between 45 to 60 minutes, enabling the public to practically explore and sample products firsthand, thus ensuring an immersive and educational encounter.
The festival is expected to receive extensive media and marketing coverage, with influencers and content creators invited to amplify its reach. Representatives from television stations, newspapers, and online news agencies will cover the event live, providing thorough insights into this distinctive celebration of entrepreneurship.