Development rooted in meaning and guided by heritage

Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq)

In today’s fast-moving world, development is often measured by the pace of construction and the grandeur of its projects. Yet, we believe what truly defines a nation’s progress is the intention behind its growth; the ideas we bring to life, the values we uphold, and the stories we tell through the spaces we create.

This has always been Sharjah’s approach. At the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), our mission has never been about chasing size or speed. It’s about creating destinations that carry meaning; places that reflect our heritage, our identity, and what we are building for the future.

Since its founding, Shurooq has committed itself to building something more profound than structures. Our vision is to weave a vision of progress that respects identity, prioritises community, and embeds sustainability at its very core. We believe these values are not a tagline but the very DNA of our work, a philosophy that ensures every project we undertake is built with the soul of the city in mind. Our developments are designed to be lived in, experienced, and remembered. We want people to walk through them and feel a connection; to heritage, to nature, to something deeper than a surface impression.

Environmental responsibility is not an afterthought; it is a fundamental pillar of our work,. From the beginning, we have made sustainability a core part of our vision. Our retreats are built with environmental sensitivity, our infrastructure supports long-term resilience, and our tourism strategies aim to protect the natural and cultural ecosystems they rely on.

Economic development is essential, but for it to be meaningful, it must enhance lives. That’s why our projects are built around people. We collaborate with small businesses, support local talent, and integrate communities into the destinations we create. This approach creates a development model that not only uplifts the economy, but also strengthens our social fabric

International interest in Sharjah continues to grow; and with good reason. Investors and travellers alike are looking for destinations that are rooted in authenticity and purpose. Progress takes many forms. For us, it looks like a family discovering Sharjah’s mountains for the first time, a visitor learning the story of Mleiha, or an entrepreneur launching a new venture in one of our landmark destinations. These experiences speak volumes about the kind of future we are building; one that is inclusive, resilient, and proudly local.

At Shurooq, development is never an end in itself. It is a tool to build meaning, inspire possibility, and reflect the values of a place that holds culture and community at its core. And in every decision we make, we carry this responsibility forward; with care, clarity, and confidence.