Sharjah committed to human development, welfare: Bodour
Sharjah Ramadan Majlis brings together several experts who discuss how investments across a diversity of industries can be designed to maximise innovation and impact
Under the patronage of Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of American University of Sharjah, and presence of Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, the Sharjah Ramadan Majlis 2024 brought together business leaders, senior government officials, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, to the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) to collaboratively address how investments across a diversity of industries can be designed to maximise innovation and impact.
Held under the theme “Innovating for Impact,” the Majlis was co-organised by Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) and Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah).
Aligned with Sharjah’s dedication to impactful socio-economic progress, this year’s theme underscored the emirate’s commitment to fostering significant change across diverse sectors such as sustainable infrastructure, education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment.
Through engaging and insighful discussions, the majlis’ atendees highlighted Sharjah’s and the UAE’S multifaceted efforts in building the nation’s future with a strong focus on impact.
In her welcoming address, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, observed that the fast-paced world encouraged competition, but she insisted “we must act responsibly and with purpose.” Adding to this, she stated, “It’s essential that we remain grounded in the true essence of our efforts, and the tangible difference they make in our communities and the wider world. In Sharjah, our approach is characterised by a steadfast commitment to human development and community welfare.”
“Our ambition goes beyond mere profit or chasing temporary success—we see innovation as a means to build resilience in our community.”
During an enlightening keynote address, Abdullah Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, stated “Innovation is the key to the future and the primary driver that the UAE adopts in various sectors in order to build a strong, flexible, and more competitive national economy.” “Through the directives of our visionary leadership, the UAE is accelerating its economic transformation. Modern legislation fosters a thriving business environment, aligning with the ‘We Are the Emirates 2031’ vision and this ambitious plan positions the UAE as a global leader in the new economy, driven by a robust knowledge-based system fueled by technology and innovation.”
“We have signed an MOU with the Sharjah Investor Services Center (SAEED) which falls within our joint national efforts to simplify procedures, support the business environment, and provide everything necessary for emerging companies and entrepreneurs to contribute to enhancing economic growth by relying on innovative and sustainable technologies, and thus be able to make an impact,” he added.
The MOU aims to streamline trademark registration services for companies and institutions, as well as facilitate transactions with relevant government departments. It also involves exchanging information through meetings, with a particular focus on government services and business startup procedures.
Under the MOU, the Ministry of Economy will support SAEED by providing guidance, training, and technical assistance to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of trademark processes. Additionally, the ministry will encourage investors to utilise the centre’s services by highlighting its benefits.
The event featured two panel discussions addressing pressing issues and showcasing success stories. The first panel, “Sharjah: Forging Future Frontiers in Innovation,” showcased the emirate’s pioneering initiatives and strategies towards fostering innovation and impacful change.
Distinguished panellists included Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq; Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of SRTIP; Khaled Huraimel, GCEO and Vice Chairperson of Beeah Group; Hmohammad Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah; Dr Tod Laursen, Chancellor of American University of Sharjah (AUS); and moderated by Abeer Al Ameeri, Head of Partnerships at Sheraa, this session explored how these entities integrate the principles of people, planet and profit into their operations, driving sustainable development and societal progress.