Why Invest In Sharjah?

Yes, it's Sharjah. This city has a lot to offer investors, whether they want to buy property there or look into other ways to make money.

Sharjah has many areas where people can spend, from real estate to business projects. You'll find a city that cares about more than just making money. Here, we will discuss why you invest in Sharjah.

Sharjah's Economic Resilience and Growth

Sharjah's economy has grown strongly and steadily, making it a good guess for investors seeking stability and long-term gains. Let's look at some key money numbers that show Sharjah's strong financial health:

GDP Growth and Economic Diversification

Sharjah's Gross Domestic Product has shot up over past years. The growth as a whole testifies on economic strength and well-done approaches to diversify the money-earning activities. Indeed, the newest data available states that Sharjah's GDP rose by 6.5% in 2023, which represents faster growth than most regional economies. This diversification has also blossomed in creating an economic landscaping of relative stability and perpetuity for investors by cushioning Sharjah's economy from the adverse effects of the changes in oil prices.

FDI Trends

Sharjah Real Estate continues to attract more and more foreign direct investment, demonstrating its increased attractiveness as an investment destination. Consider the following statistics:

• In Q2 2023, Sharjah accounted for $808 million in the FDI flow, 60% up YoY.
• 44% growth in the number of FDI projects completed against the year
• $140.6 million capital investment
• 23 FDI new projects, while in Q1 2023, the count was only 16
• Greenfield FDI projects rose from 5 to 10

These figures are an indication that foreign investors have become very optimistic about the future of Sharjah in the economic front and its great business environment.

Sector-Specific Growth

Sharjah's economy is characterized by its diversity, with several key sectors showing significant growth:

Sector	Growth Rate (2023)
ICT	55.6%
Food & Agriculture	49.7%
Life Sciences	47.0%
Logistics & Distribution	46.2%

The above table indicates strong growth in all sectors, making the investment attractions of Sharjah very diverse.

Strategic Location and Infrastructure

When you're considering buying in Sharjah, you'll find its strategic location and excellent connectivity are major benefits. This emirate offers unique possibilities that set it apart from other investment places.

Gateway to Middle East Markets

Sharjah's center position between Europe and East Asia makes it an ideal hub for companies looking to discover developing markets. You'll have access to a vast economic landscape, with Sharjah working as a gateway to the UAE and the larger GCC economy, which was worth over US$ 504 billion in 2023.

Access to Major Airports and Seaports

Sharjah International Airport is a key player in the region's transportation network. It's the third-largest Middle East air freight hub in cargo capacity, moving 586,195 tons in 2015 – a 16.1% increase year on year. The airport connects you to over 150 global destinations, receiving over 15 million passengers from over 100 countries yearly.

Here's a quick look at Sharjah International Airport's connectivity:

Aspect	Details
Global Rank	122th in Port Connectivity Ranking
Carriers	22 servicing the airport

Proximity to Dubai and Other Emirates

Sharjah's unique physical situation offers you unparalleled access to the entire UAE. It's the only emirate that shares borders with all six other emirates.

This closeness makes for easy business operations across the country. Looking ahead, the Etihad Rail, once open, will further improve Sharjah's connectivity by linking important ports across the area. This development is set to boost Sharjah's already amazing transportation system.

Business-Friendly Environment and Incentives

Sharjah creates a welcoming business ecosystem to support foreign investment. Its policies and initiatives show this:

Free Zones and Economic Zones

6 Free Zones

At the time of investment in Sharjah you get to be faced with six free zones strategically placed with a goal of making your businesses a reality.

The free zones boast the best environment for company formation critical taxation advantages: corporate tax is exempted, personal income tax is absent. You will also avoid the fear of any import, export, or re-export duties and customs because there are none.

Free Zone	Key Features
Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA	UAE's second-largest industrial free zone, home to 6,500+ businesses from 163 countries
Sharjah Airport Free Zone (SAIF)	Connected to Sharjah International Airport, hosts 8000+ companies from 160 countries
Sharjah Media City (Shams)	World-class media hub for creative businesses
Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP)	Promotes R&D and industry-academia collaboration
Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone	Offers 1,500+ business activities
Sharjah Healthcare City (SHCC)	Dedicated to healthcare and wellness

33 Industrial Zones

Besides the free zones, Sharjah has 33 industrial zones, which give you more chances to invest. These zones serve different industries, offering you many choices from which to set up your business.

Innovation and Technology Hub

Sharjah is becoming a hub for new ideas and tech opening up great chances for people to invest in cutting-edge fields. The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) is a standout helping over 18,000 young people and supporting more than 180 new businesses since it began in 2016 1. These startups have brought in a whopping $248+ million in sales and gotten $171+ million from investors, while making 1,900+ new jobs.

Sheraa's Impact	Numbers
Youth Empowered	18,000+
Ventures Incubated	180+
Revenue Generated	$248+ million
Investments Raised	$171+ million
Jobs Created	1,900+

Access To Funding

You can find many ways to get money for your startup in Sharjah. In total AED 2.6 billion has helped fund over 6,000 SMEs thanks to the efforts of The Mohammed Bin Rashid Fund for SMEs (MBRF) The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development has disbursed over AED 1.32 billion to promote the establishment and expansion of more than 2,500 SMEs. The Emirates also announced credit guarantees by the UAE government, which has resulted in more than 1.5 thousand small businesses receiving AED 3.5 billion in amount earlier this year.

Research And Development Focus

The emirate has put a lot of money into research and development

• Sharjah's University City houses many top-notch educational and research centers.
• The Sharjah Research Academy backs cutting-edge research across different fields.

Emerging Tech Sectors

Sharjah is helping several high-tech sectors grow:

• AI and Machine Learning
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• Clean Energy Tech
• Biotech and Life Sciences

In 2023, Sharjah saw tech startups jump by 30% showing its rising status as a tech hotspot.

Cultural and Tourism Potential

Sharjah's rich cultural heritage and growing tourism sector offer unique investment opportunities:

Cultural Capital

UNESCO named Sharjah the Cultural Capital of the Arab World, and it boasts:

• A lively arts and culture scene
• Many museums and historic places
• Regular festivals and events that celebrate culture

Tourism Growth

Sharjah's tourism industry keeps growing

• Sharjah's visitor count topped 1.5 million in 2023 up 11% from the year before.
• The hospitality industry expanded, with new hotels and resorts opening their doors.

This tourism boom creates chances in hospitality, entertainment, and related fields.

Sustainable Development and Green Initiatives

Sharjah is at the epicenter of sustainable growth in the area, matching with global trends towards environmentally responsible business practices.

Renewable Energy Projects

The emirate has made major progress in green energy:

• The Sharjah Waste to Energy Facility, operating since 2023, handles 300,000 tons of waste yearly, producing clean energy.
• Solar power projects are growing, with plans to increase green energy output by 30% by 2025.

Green Energy Projects	Capacity
Waste-to-Energy Plant	30 MW
Solar PV Facilities	100 MW
Upcoming Solar Plant	60 MW

Environmental Conservation Efforts

Sharjah's commitment to environmental conservation is clear in different projects. The emirate protects coastal and marine environments through coral reef repair, mangrove farming, and placing man-made caves. At COP26, the UAE promised to plant 100 million mangrove trees by 2030, which help absorb carbon and protect coastal areas.

Smart City Initiatives

You'll find Sharjah at the heart of smart city growth in the area. The Sharjah Sustainable City project demonstrates this dedication, having 1,250 homes across a 7.2 million square foot development. This creative city gets much of its power from rooftop solar panels and treats wastewater for reuse. The project also includes hydroponic and aquaponic methods to provide fresh food year-round to locals.

Sharjah has launched a collection of over 750 electric cars (EVs) for cabs to support sustainable transportation. The Sharjah Sustainable City aims to place 80 EV charging points, adding to the UAE's goal of having 50% of its car fleet as EVs by 2050.

These efforts not only help with environmental protection but also create business chances in green technologies and sustainable infrastructure.

Human Capital and Workforce

Sharjah's investment in education and human capital development ensures a skilled and diverse workforce for businesses:

Educational Excellence

• Home to the University City, which hosts branches of international universities
• Focus on STEM education and vocational training

Diverse and Skilled Workforce

Sharjah's educational commitment has resulted in a diverse and highly skilled workforce. With over 2,000 PhDs and 44,000 students in the area, you have access to a huge pool of talent.

This educated workforce adds to Sharjah's image as the education hub of the UAE. The high reading rate and focus on education and training ensure a steady supply of educated workers across different businesses.

Key Statistics	Numbers
Universities & Academic Institutions	22
PhDs	2,000+
Students	44,000+
Companies & Partners	3,000+
Event Attendees	60,000+

In 2023, Sharjah's investment in education reached AED 3.5 billion, reflecting its commitment to human capital development.

Quality of Life

Sharjah offers an exceptional quality of life, which is crucial for attracting and retaining talent:

• Safe and family-friendly environment
• High-quality healthcare facilities
• Rich cultural experiences and recreational activities

The emirate consistently ranks high in regional quality of life indices, making it an attractive destination for expatriates and their families.

Future Outlook and Vision

Sharjah's future looks bright, with several big ideas and projects in the pipeline:

Sharjah Sustainable City

This eco-friendly home project, set to be finished in 2025, will be driven entirely by green energy and feature sustainable water and trash management systems.

Expansion of Free Zones

Plans are going to grow current free zones and create new ones, focused on developing areas like banking, biotech, and advanced manufacturing.

Smart City Initiatives

Sharjah is spending heavily in smart city technologies, hoping to improve urban life through digital innovation and connection.

Government Initiatives and Support for Investors

The Sharjah government has adopted a range of measures to draw and help businesses. These include:

• Sharjah Investor Services Center (Saeed)

Saeed is a one-stop-shop for buyers, providing:

• Fast-track business setup services
• Licensing and registration help
• Guidance on laws and processes

In 2023, Saeed handled over 10,000 investment requests and enabled the creation of 2,500 new companies.

Invest in Sharjah

This government body is committed to pushing Sharjah as a business location. Services include:

• Market data and study
• Networking possibilities with area friends
• Assistance with spot choosing and setup

Tax Incentives

Sharjah, like the rest of the UAE, offers major tax advantages:

• No personal income tax
• No business tax (except for oil companies and foreign banks)
• 100% foreign ownership allowed in free zones

Free Zones

Sharjah's free zones offer extra benefits:

• 100% repatriation of capital and profits
• Exemption from import and export taxes
• Simplified visa processes for employees

The Hamriyah Free Zone, for example, saw a 12% rise in new business filings in 2023 compared to the previous year.

Investment Opportunities in Key Sectors

Healthcare

When you invest in Sharjah's healthcare industry, you're entering a rapidly growing market. The UAE's healthcare expenditure is projected to boom, with drug spending likely to rise at an 8% CAGR. Sharjah Healthcare City (SHCC) offers a great business chance in healthcare and related areas under easy free zone rules. As an investment, you'll enjoy 100% control, zero tax and fees, and 100% repatriability.

Education

Sharjah's education industry is having a rise in investments, drawing notice from local and foreign companies alike. With more than 100 schools expected to open in the UAE by 2030, you have ample chances to take. The emirate's central position, diverse population, and business-friendly climate make it an appealing place for high-quality educational projects.

Environmental Technologies

You'll find numerous chances in Sharjah's clean tech and environmental technologies areas. The UAE aims to be a global leader in fighting the climate disaster, aiming to reach net zero carbon pollution by 2050 and spending $163 billion in clean and green energy. Key areas for funding include solar and wind energy tools, energy storage technology, and new water and wastewater treatment options.

Logistics

Sharjah's logistics industry offers good financial possibilities. The emirate's strategic position at the junction of established and developing trade routes makes it an ideal place for smooth flow of goods, business, and investments. Dubai's shipping ability has helped the UAE to be recognized as one of the world's top 12 countries on the World Bank shipping Performance Index.

Real Estate

Investing in Sharjah's real estate market can be a rewarding chance. The city gives relatively more reasonable property prices compared to nearby Dubai, drawing a wide range of buyers. Sharjah's real estate market has been slowly growing, with new buildings and projects revealed regularly. The city offers a range of property choices, including flats, houses, and business areas, at different price points.

Sector	Key Investment Opportunities
Healthcare	Pharmaceutical production, medical devices
Education	Private schools, international curricula
Environmental Technologies	Clean energy, water treatment, waste management
Logistics	Ports, warehouses, transportation networks
Real Estate	Residential properties, commercial spaces

By investing in these key areas, you can tap into Sharjah's growing economy and gain from its central location and business-friendly atmosphere.

Conclusion

Investing in Sharjah gives a special chance to be part of an active and forward-thinking economy. With its central position, business-friendly policies, focus on innovation and commitment to sustainable development, Sharjah makes a convincing case for businesses looking for long-term growth and security.

The emirate's broad economy, rich cultural history, and good quality of life form a perfect mix of traditional ideals and modern progress. As Sharjah continues to change and grow, it stands set to play an increasingly important part in the global economy.

For buyers looking for a location that offers both instant profits and long-term promise, Sharjah appears as a clear choice. Its strategy for the future, backed by real plans and projects, ensures that investments made today will return dividends for years to come.

As the emirate continues to rise as a star in the global business scene, those who spot its promise early stand to reap the biggest benefits. The time to invest in Sharjah is now – take the chance and be part of this exciting journey of growth and innovation.