Economy

The economy of Sharjah is highly diversified by regional standards, with oil and gas contributing less than 6% to GDP, and no individual sector accounting for more than 20%. The emirate has had particular success in developing its industrial and manufacturing sector through a network of free zones and industrial zones that continues to develop and expand, and it is one of the main industrial bases of the UAE. The authorities have also taken a range of measures to boost foreign investment flows, supported by an attractive national business environment and competitive advantages, such as Sharjah’s comparatively low operating costs. This chapter contains interviews with Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq); and Najla Al Midfa, General Manager, Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa).