Sharjah expands its out put base, local economy with 361% rise in investment

Following its recent recognition as the UAE’s fastest-growing emirate for foreign direct investment (FDI) in the first half of 2025, Sharjah is continuing to demonstrate notable economic returns from this influx of capital.

The new performance data from H1 2025 confirms that these investments are actively expanding the project pipeline, driving job creation, and fortifying the emirate’s industrial base; particularly across consumer products, food and beverage, business services, and industrial equipment.

This performance is widely seen as a direct indicator of strengthening investor confidence and underscores Sharjah’s effective strategy in channelling foreign investment into sustainable economic development. Senior officials have noted that the current trajectory reinforces Sharjah’s role as a competitive and reliable investment hub, while positioning its economy for long-term resilience and diversified growth.

Sharjah’s economic momentum has yielded dramatic results in the first half of 2025, with capital investment soaring to $1.5 billion, a 361% increase compared to the $325 million recorded in the same period last year, and accompanied by 74 new projects, a 57% rise from the 47 projects in H1 2024. In parallel, employment saw a notable boost with 2,578 new jobs created, marking a 45% increase from 1,779 positions in H1 2024, with the majority concentrated in production and service-based sectors that support Sharjah’s strategy for sustainable growth and a skilled, high-value workforce.

The sharp rise in capital inflows is expected to strengthen Sharjah’s capacity to finance infrastructure, accelerate innovation, and boost GDP, while generating a multiplier effect across logistics, education, and technology. At the same time, rising employment is enhancing purchasing power and driving new investments, particularly in the SME sector.

 Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), emphasized that the exceptional results achieved by the emirate in foreign direct investment during the first half of 2025 reinforce Sharjah’s status as a safe and attractive destination for investors, thanks to the visionary economic leadership of His Highness  Dr  Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

He added that the Sharjah Chamber continues its efforts to support investors, promote diverse investment opportunities, and expand partnerships and collaboration with international chambers and institutions to attract further investment.

Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), said Sharjah’s strong performance in attracting foreign direct investment this year is a reflection of vision, resilience, and teamwork. With 361% growth in capital investments and 57% in new projects during the first half of 2025, these achievements go beyond numbers; they mean more jobs, stronger industries, and sustainable value for our communities.

“The strategic efforts of Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) have been pivotal in reinforcing the emirate’s global competitiveness. The office has managed to attract capital, while still aligning investments with Sharjah’s long-term vision of sustainable development, talent empowerment, and diversified growth; ensuring that the emirate remains a trusted destination for investors and a model of balanced progress for the region.”, he added. 

Hamad Ali Abdalla Al Mahmoud, Chairman of the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD), stated that the exceptional increase in foreign direct investment during the first half of 2025 indicates the ability of Sharjah’s business sectors to achieve sustainable growth leaps and meet aspirations for the highest levels of excellence and leadership. This is done in accordance with the vision of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, enabling the Department to continue its steady growth.

Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), emphasised that Sharjah’s investment achievements reflect the strength of its integrated system, established under the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, with culture and economy as twin pillars for a knowledge-based society and sustainable economy. He highlighted Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone as a leading hub for publishing and creative services.

“With support from Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, the Authority invests in knowledge and creativity to enhance investor confidence and Sharjah’s global standing.” H.E. Added.

Dr. Abdelaziz Saeed Almheiri, Chairman of the Sharjah Healthcare City Authority (SHCC) said “We take great pride in the outstanding FDI results achieved by the Emirate in H1 2025, reflecting Sharjah’s growing appeal as a destination for global investors. We remain firmly committed to attracting high-quality investments in the healthcare sector and encouraging pharmaceutical companies to expand in the Emirate. Guided by the vision of His Highness   Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, we are also advancing the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the medical field into our efforts to strengthen healthcare investment opportunities.”