The Emirate of Sharjah has witnessed remarkable growth in foreign direct investment (FDI) during the first half of the year, establishing itself as a magnet for international investors. The significant boost in FDI flow highlights Sharjah’s thriving economic landscape and its potential as a compelling destination for capital investments. This article explores the surge in foreign direct investment in Sharjah, which has seen a phenomenal increase compared to the same period in the previous year, along with the implications for job creation and sectoral growth.
Outstanding Growth in Capital Investments
During the first half of the year, Sharjah recorded an exceptional increase in foreign direct investment inflows, with capital investments rising by 361% to reach $1.5 billion, compared to $325 million during the same period in 2024. This remarkable upsurge is further underscored by a 57% rise in the number of new projects, totaling 74 compared to 47 projects year-on-year. The Sharjah Foreign Direct Investment Office (Invest in Sharjah) reported the creation of 2,578 new jobs, reflecting a growth of 45% from the 1,779 jobs established during the previous period. A substantial portion of these employment opportunities has been concentrated in productive and service sectors that align with Sharjah’s economic growth strategy and aim to expand quality employment.
Sharjah as an Attractive Investment Hub
Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized that the outstanding results achieved by the emirate in foreign direct investment during the first half of 2025 reinforce Sharjah’s status as a safe and appealing destination for investors. He attributed this success to the visionary economic guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Al Owais noted that the chamber continues to support investors and promote diverse investment opportunities while expanding partnerships with commercial chambers and international institutions to attract more investments.
Driving Sustainable Growth
Hamad Ali Abdullah Al Mahmoud, Head of the Sharjah Economic Development Department, affirmed that the positive trends in foreign direct investment flows demonstrate the ability of Sharjah’s business sectors to achieve sustainable growth leaps, meeting expectations for excellence and leadership. Ahmad bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority, echoed this sentiment, stating that Sharjah’s investment achievements reflect the strength of its integrated system. The Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone stands out as a prime example of an innovative investment environment in publishing and creative services.
Encouraging Sector-Specific Investments
Dr. Abdulaziz Saeed Al Mehiri, Head of the Sharjah Healthcare City, expressed a steadfast commitment to continue attracting quality investments in the healthcare sector, urging pharmaceutical companies to establish their strategic hubs in the emirate. He emphasized the integration of artificial intelligence technologies in health as part of efforts to draw these investments, driven by a supportive and humanitarian vision from His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi. Hussein Al Mahmoudi, CEO of the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park, highlighted that the results of foreign direct investment affirm the robust investment environment provided by the emirate, featuring wise leadership and a clear vision for the future.
The Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park serves as a vital platform to attract quality investments in technology and research, striving to connect knowledge with industry and turn ideas into economically and socially impactful projects. This fosters Sharjah’s competitiveness and solidifies its position as a global destination for innovation and sustainable development.
Overall, the significant rise in foreign direct investment within Sharjah underscores the emirate’s strategic positioning as a leading investment hub in the region. This remarkable growth offers promising opportunities for economic diversification and sustainable development, ultimately enhancing the overall investment climate.