Shurooq marks 15 years of strategic growth with AED 7.2 billion in investments and partnerships across 52 projects and 60 million sqft of development

Through strategic investments and bold innovation in key sectors, job creation, and global partnerships, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has created unforgettable experiences, driving Sharjah’s goal of becoming a positive force for the economy, people, and the planet

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi: Guided by the visionary strategy of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi …. Our investments have transformed landscapes and lives, underpinning economic resilience and enriching cultural vibrancy.

Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer: Shurooq is more than a developer — it’s a partner in shaping Sharjah’s future.

15-year recap:

For immediate release
Sharjah, May 13 2025

The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has announced AED 7.2 billion in investments across 52 groundbreaking projects and experiences, transforming over 60 million square feet throughout the emirate. This announcement comes as Shurooq marks 15 years since its inception, highlighting a journey defined by sustainable growth, community impact, and cultural preservation.

Rather than simply expanding its footprint, Shurooq has focused on creating destinations that offer meaningful, lasting connections between people and place. From real estate developments to immersive experiences, its projects have been pivotal in shaping Sharjah as a thriving, future-ready destination. Among its achievements are 7.7 kilometres of developed beachfront, offering unique coastal escapes that celebrate the emirate’s natural beauty.

The impact of these initiatives goes beyond the numbers. Shurooq’s projects have directly and indirectly generated 5,000 jobs, with 1,095 of those created through joint ventures. In addition, the authority has driven major collaborations with 10 local and international partners, highlighting the breadth of Shurooq’s influence across multiple sectors.

From real estate, tourism, and entertainment developments to integrated experiences, these initiatives have played a vital role in reinforcing Sharjah’s status as a dynamic and attractive destination. They include three major real estate projects with investments and partnerships totalling AED 5 billion, and 10 distinctive projects in the hospitality sector with investments and partnerships amounting to AED 850 million. The retail and entertainment sectors saw 18 projects, with total investments exceeding AED 870 million, while the arts and culture sector recorded five projects with investments reaching AED 447 million. In the F&B sector, Shurooq and its partners delivered 10 projects ranging from small to medium-sized ventures. Additionally, Shurooq took part in six joint ventures with strategic partners across various sectors, reflecting its vision to diversify its investment portfolio and promote sustainable growth across all fields.

Anchored by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah; the leadership of H.E. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq; Shurooq has consistently prioritised sustainable economic growth and diversification. Its innovative approach, global partnerships, and focus on strategic investments continue to position Sharjah as a competitive destination for high-value projects and long-term growth.

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi: Shurooq’s investments have transformed landscapes and lives, underpinning economic resilience and enriching cultural vibrancy

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi said: “Shurooq’s journey over the past 15 years has been one of ambition and execution, driven by the total commitment to creating sustainable value for Sharjah. The diversity and scale of our investments have transformed landscapes and lives, underpinning economic resilience and enriching cultural vibrancy. Guided by the visionary strategy of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, each project we have implemented has strengthened Sharjah’s appeal as a global destination for business, tourism, and innovation. Our success has always been rooted in strategic foresight, meaningful partnerships, and an unwavering dedication to shaping a prosperous and inclusive future.”

Ahmed Al Qaseer: Shurooq is a Strategic Partner in Shaping Sharjah’s Future

His Excellency Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), stated: “Since its inception, Shurooq has strived to be more than just a development entity — it has aimed to be a true partner in shaping Sharjah’s economic, social, and cultural future. Every project we have undertaken is rooted in a clear vision inspired by the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. With the continued support of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Authority, we have worked to bring this vision to life through integrated development projects that place people and place at the heart of growth. Shurooq’s strategy has always centred on diversity, sustainability, and impactful partnerships. Today, we are witnessing the results of this approach through projects that have delivered tangible economic and social impact and strengthened Sharjah’s regional and global competitiveness and investment appeal.”

Real estate as the bedrock of growth

The UAE’s non-oil GDP has seen substantial contributions from the real estate sector, which accounted for 7.6% of the nation’s non-oil GDP. Shurooq has recorded 48.9% CAGR (compound annual growth rate) in real estate sales between 2018 and 2024, showcasing strong market growth. The authority’s real estate projects include a total of 4,516 units across three world-class developments: Maryam Island, Sharjah Sustainable City, and Ajwan Khorfakkan. Of these, over 4,187 units have been sold. These projects have attracted buyers from more than 98 nationalities, contributing to Shurooq’s total real estate investments and partnerships of AED 5 billion. This remarkable success has significantly shaped Sharjah’s skyline and solidified Shurooq’s role in the region’s real estate sector.

World-class hospitality to bring the world to Sharjah

As the UAE’s tourism and hospitality industry continues to grow, the restaurants and hotels sector secured the fifth spot in the UAE’s non-oil GDP, achieving a growth rate of 5.1% in the first half of 2024, driven by exceptional tourism activity across the country. Shurooq has played an instrumental role, developed 10 hospitality projects (7 operational, and 3 in the pipeline), with investments totalling AED 850 million. These projects, alongside world-class F&B experiences at top destinations across Sharjah, have enhanced the emirate’s appeal. The authority’s focus on high-quality infrastructure and luxury accommodations has played a key role in making Sharjah a preferred tourism destination.

The seven “Sharjah Collection” properties, which are bespoke stays at heritage sites, eco-retreats, and desert escapes across the emirate, are leading sustainability practices and have been designed to focus on caring for their natural and cultural environment. To meet the growing demand of guests at these properties, Shurooq recently added 35 new rooms and simultaneously made a strategic foray into full in-house management and operation of these seven assets.

Shurooq’s investment in The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah, has transformed heritage houses into a cultural gem. Located in the Heart of Sharjah, this 53-key luxury hotel, managed by GHM, spanning 10,069 sqm combines Emirati heritage with modern indulgence, and has contributed significantly to the emirate’s tourism landscape. Its recently added Serai Wing, Bait Khalid Bin Ibrahim, introduces 12 additional rooms split between two houses within restored heritage compounds, with each house featuring private pools.

The authority’s dedication extends beyond accommodations to include world-class F&B unit spaces developed across its destinations. Nine of these units are owned and operated by Shurooq, featuring curated culinary concepts led by renowned international chefs, while the remaining outlets have been strategically leased to a selection of local and international vendors. At their Kalba Beach destination, eight new units are currently underway. These distinctive dining experiences enhance the lifestyle appeal of Shurooq’s luxury retreats, retail, and leisure destinations, enriching the overall journey for every guest.

Leisure and entertainment for an exceptional visitor experience

According to the market research firm MarkNtel Advisors, the UAE’s leisure and entertainment sector is set to expand by a 9.7% CAGR through 2027. This forecast is attributed to the increased number of attractions set up in recent years and upcoming developments. Shurooq has been at the forefront of this growth, investing AED 870 million across 18 leisure and entertainment offerings, including five unique experiences. These destinations have redefined Sharjah’s and the UAE’s retail and leisure landscape. From bustling waterfront malls to serene island escapes and adrenaline-fueled adventures, these destinations cater to diverse visitor interests while enhancing the emirate’s appeal as a premier lifestyle hub.

Al Montazah Parks (126,000 sqm); Al Hafiya Park (135,500 sqm); The Flag Island (35,963 sqm); the three Flag Squares – 8,967 sqm in Kalba, 7,063 sqm in Khorfakkan, and 1,590 sqm in Dibba Al Hisn; Sharjah Boats and City Sightseeing projects; and Sky Adventures – a joint venture project and is the first officially licensed paragliding centre in the UAE – are other notable Shurooq projects in this vertical that continue to reinforce Sharjah’s status as a hub of adventure, leisure and tourism in the UAE and the region.

Reaffirming Sharjah as a regional centre for arts and culture

As the UAE continues to prioritise investments in arts and culture, contributing to the diversification of its economy, Shurooq has made significant strides in enhancing Sharjah’s position as a cultural hub. The UAE’s cultural activities are an integral part of the nation’s economic landscape, and Shurooq has contributed AED 447 million to arts and cultural initiatives. These investments have showcased the emirate’s rich heritage and its commitment to promoting cultural understanding, solidifying Sharjah’s role as a beacon of cultural excellence in the region.

Through visionary projects that combine eco-tourism, adventure tourism, and cultural appreciation, Shurooq has led the way in sustainability.

Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) attracting capital from all over the world

Since its establishment in 2016, the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), Shurooq’s flagship initiative, has been at the forefront of promoting Sharjah as a premier investment destination. Through a total of 373 strategic initiatives and collaborations, including 57 country visits, 89 delegations, 70 global participations, and hosting 42 events, the agency has played a pivotal role in boosting investor confidence and improving business access to Sharjah. Since its inception, Invest in Sharjah has successfully attracted 617 projects, contributing to the creation of 46,761 new jobs and generating a capital investment of AED 96.75 billion in key sectors that are crucial for Sharjah’s economic diversification and future growth. These include advanced manufacturing, agri-food technology, mobility and logistics, health and wellbeing, GreenTech, human capital and innovation (education), as well as culture and tourism.

The Sharjah Investment Forum hosted annually by Invest in Sharjah – the largest event of its kind in the region – has been a cornerstone achievement, welcoming a significant number of guests, speakers, and attendees over the years. This platform has been instrumental in fostering dialogue, partnerships, and investment opportunities across various sectors.

Entrepreneurs at the forefront of Shurooq’s investment vision

A key component of Shurooq’s future vision is to create the maximum possible opportunity for the SME sector, particularly for local and homegrown entrepreneurs. Currently, the authority offers extremely affordable spaces between 40-500 sqm in Heart of Sharjah, alongside retail opportunities across Al Heera Beach, Khorfakkan Beach, Kalba Flagpole, amongst others.

Sharjah stands out as a prime destination for manufacturing, real estate, tourism, sustainability, culture and education. Its economy is nearly 96% non-oil based, and the emirate is playing a crucial role in the UAE’s drive to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, leveraging its strategic location. In 2022 Sharjah’s population reached 1.8m, with a focus on a young, urban demographic. The emirate’s commitment to economic diversification is evident through initiatives supporting small businesses and investment in tourism. In 2024, the Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER) ranked the emirate 4th in the GCC and 7th in the MENA region in its startup ecosystem rankings.

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