Economy

Among the most diversified economies in both the UAE and the wider GCC region, Sharjah has developed strong manufacturing, tourism and logistics industries, among other non-oil sectors. Against a backdrop of reduced oil prices and lower economic growth, local and federal authorities are working to develop the economy further through a range of measures intended to improve the business environment, attract more foreign investment and bolster government finances. Out of a UAE-wide GDP of Dh1.37trn ($373bn) in 2015, Sharjah’s portion reached Dh85.66bn ($23.6bn), or 6.3% of the total, making it the third-largest economy in the federation after Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

This chapter contains interviews with Khalifa Mohammed Al Kindi, Chairman, Central Bank of the UAE; Sheikh Khaled bin Abdullah bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman, Department of Seaports and Customs.