The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa) aims to support more than 1,000 entrepreneurs by 2030 by launching unique initiatives that contribute to developing an integrated entrepreneurial environment in Sharjah.
Inspired by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to cultivate individuals capable of innovation and competitiveness, and by the directives of Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), who believes that empowering youth and entrepreneurship are two pillars of the emirate’s future, Sheraa continues to play its vital role as a key driver of growth and an enabler of entrepreneurs by transforming ideas into sustainable projects with a real impact and scalability locally and globally.
Sheraa’s efforts also align with the “The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World” campaign, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to consolidate the UAE’s position as a global destination for entrepreneurship and provide all possible support to Emirati youth to benefit from the unique economic environment.
This includes training and nurturing 10,000 Emirati entrepreneurs, both male and female, and creating 30,000 job opportunities.
Since its inception, the centre has supported more than 450 startups, generating combined revenues exceeding $370 million, attracting nearly $300 million in capital, and creating more than 2,600 job opportunities. These figures highlight Sheraa’s growing role in driving entrepreneurship and strengthening Sharjah’s position as a hub for innovation and opportunity.
Sarah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Executive Director of Sheraa, said, “At Sheraa, we believe that building a knowledge-based economy begins with empowering people, with a belief in their ability to transform their ideas into projects, and with their passion into added value for their community and nation. We are working to develop an integrated system that provides support at various stages of an entrepreneur’s journey, equipping them with the tools that enable them to grow sustainably and compete in regional and global markets.”
Sheraa continues to translate its vision into a tangible reality through initiatives supporting entrepreneurs at every stage, from idea development to business expansion. These programmes form an integrated ecosystem that equips founders with the tools, expertise, and opportunities to turn ideas into competitive ventures that drive an innovation- and sustainability-led national economy.
Through the Sharjah Startup Studio, Sheraa offers an integrated accelerator programme that enables entrepreneurs to expand their businesses and accelerate their growth. These programmes include a comprehensive package of benefits that combine specialised consulting, funding opportunities, and digital tools valued at more than Dhs3 million.
Over four months, participants undergo intensive training that combines practical experience, mentorship, and investor engagement, empowering them to build sustainable growth strategies and expand confidently into new markets.
WAM