Highlights from The Report: Sharjah 2021

Oxford Business Group has now launched The Report: Sharjah 2021. This fifth edition of our emirate-specific analysis shines a spotlight on the prospects for investment growth in the emirate as the Covid-19 pandemic subsides. 

Sharjah’s highly diversified economy and the key part it played in helping the emirate to navigate the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic are a key area of focus in the report, which was produced in partnership with Invest in Sharjah, the emirate's investment promotion agency . 

The Report: Sharjah 2021 looks in detail at the steps taken by the emirate to strengthen its industrial base and attract investment for high-tech manufacturing, as the Fourth Industrial Revolution gains traction.

Sharjah’s efforts to capitalise on its strategic location and well-developed transport and logistics infrastructure, at a time when global supply chains are realigning, are a prime focus. With six free zones and shores on both the Gulf and the Indian Ocean, as well as shared borders with the other emirates, Sharjah has considerable potential in this area. As policymakers prepare for a sustainable recovery, advanced manufacturing could play an important role in increasing exports and creating jobs. 

The emirate’s evolving tourism industry is another area that is explored in-depth. OBG analyses Sharjah’s plans to boost visitor numbers by building on its diverse strengths, which include an attractive natural environment, rich cultural heritage, unspoilt beaches and a conveniently accessible location close to Dubai and the northern emirates.

The report also documents the latest developments at the Mahani onshore gas and condensate field, which came on stream in January 2021, while exploring how new discoveries are being balanced with an increased focus on renewable energy, environmental management and sustainability.

Sharjah’s bid to build on its position as a regional centre for education is also examined. The report considers the part that e-learning strategies played in minimising disruptions for students during the pandemic. It also maps out moves under way to attract investments in R&D, innovation and the digital economy – aided by a fertile ecosystem of universities, research centres, incubators and accelerators. 

Infrastructure spending is also set to support a swift economic rebound, as Sharjah moves to meet high demand for mixed-use developments combining schools, retail outlets and green spaces. Sharjah approved a $9.1bn general budget for 2021 – its largest-ever – with 43% allocated for developing and improving infrastructure

Looking ahead, increased FDI flows are expected to play a key role in generating broad-based growth in the Covid-19 recovery flows, supported by the Sharjah Investor Services Centre (SAEED), the emirate’s one-stop shop for international investors and domestic entrepreneurs.  

Read The Report: Sharjah 2021 for an in-depth analysis of these crucial topics from our on-the-ground and remote experts, as well as incisive insights from key leaders in the government and executives from the top public and private sector companies.