The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has marked a major milestone in its 15-year journey, completing 52 projects across more than 60 million square feet and attracting AED7.2 billion in investments. These achievements reflect Shurooq’s long-term vision of sustainable economic development, made possible through impactful partnerships and a focus on innovation.
The authority’s initiatives span real estate, hospitality, arts and culture, F&B, and retail and entertainment, positioning Sharjah as a competitive regional and global destination. Under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and the leadership of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq, the emirate continues to expand its economic and cultural horizons.
Diversified Projects Backed by Strategic Vision
Shurooq’s AED7.2 billion investment portfolio includes three major real estate projects valued at AED5 billion, ten hospitality projects worth AED850 million, eighteen leisure and entertainment ventures exceeding AED870 million, and five cultural and artistic developments totalling AED447 million.
Real estate remains a key pillar of Shurooq’s growth strategy. Projects such as Maryam Island, Sharjah Sustainable City, and Ajwan Khorfakkan collectively comprise 4,516 residential units. Between 2018 and 2024, Shurooq achieved a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 48.9% in real estate sales, with 4,187 units sold to buyers from 98 nationalities.
“Over 15 years, Shurooq has been a model of ambition, transforming Sharjah through our diverse investments and partnerships,” said Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi. “Our projects reflect our commitment to the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi to position Sharjah as a global destination for business, tourism, and innovation.”
Driving Hospitality and Cultural Tourism
The authority’s AED850 million investment in hospitality includes the Sharjah Collection, a group of heritage, eco, and desert retreats:
- Najd Al Meqsar: A restored village in Khorfakkan.
- Nomad: A cabin eco-retreat in Kalba.
- Al Badayer Retreat: Desert lodges with luxury tents.
- Kingfisher Retreat: An island eco-luxury destination.
- Moon Retreat: A glamping site in Mleiha.
- Al Faya Retreat and Al Rayaheen Retreat: Boutique desert and heritage resorts.
- The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah: A five-star blend of heritage and luxury.
Cultural investments worth AED447 million include landmark initiatives like the Heart of Sharjah, Al Noor Island, House of Wisdom, and Mleiha National Park, which integrate cultural preservation with experiential tourism.
Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, emphasised, “Our strategy is based on diversity, sustainability, and partnerships. Today, we’re seeing measurable economic and social returns from these values, with projects that elevate Sharjah’s profile globally.”
Leisure, Retail, and Environmental Sustainability
Shurooq’s AED870 million investment in retail and entertainment includes:
- Khorfakkan Beach and Kalba Beach: Coastal tourism destinations.
- Al Jabal Adventure and Al Heera Beach: Outdoor recreation hubs.
- Kalba Waterfront: A shopping and dining destination with Eagle Hills.
The authority also invested in 7.7 km of waterfront development and multiple environmental initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. These efforts have created over 5,000 direct and indirect jobs, including 1,095 roles supported by partnerships with 10 local and international entities.
Positioning Sharjah as an Investment Hub
Since 2016, the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) has supported 617 projects, attracting AED96.75 billion in capital and generating over 46,000 jobs. This proactive investment landscape is backed by Shurooq’s offerings for SMEs and entrepreneurs, enabling access to retail spaces across key developments.
Sharjah’s growing global influence was further recognised in 2024 when it ranked 4th in the GCC and 7th in MENA in the Global Startup Ecosystem Report by Startup Genome and the Global Entrepreneurship Network.
A Long-Term Commitment to Growth
Looking ahead, Shurooq remains central to Sharjah’s strategy to diversify its economy and lead the UAE’s net-zero goals. The authority continues to combine heritage preservation with futuristic planning, reinforcing Sharjah’s identity as a cultural capital and innovation hub.
“Our success lies in adopting a long-term vision and building strategic alliances,” said Sheikha Bodour. “Together, we’re crafting a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future for Sharjah.”
