SHARJAH: The Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) and Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) have earned prestigious recognition at the 2025 Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards. Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of both free zones, won silver for “Most Innovative Leader of the Year” and bronze for “Innovative Achievement in Thought Leadership.”
The Stevie Awards, known globally for honouring business excellence, acknowledged Al Mazrouei’s leadership in driving strategic projects that promote economic sustainability. Under his guidance, Sharjah’s free zones have attracted over 15,000 companies from 160 countries, cementing their reputation as prime investment destinations.
Al Mazrouei was selected from more than 1,100 nominees across 13 countries. The awards ceremony, held at Waldorf Astoria in Ras Al Khaimah under the patronage of the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce, featured a panel of distinguished global business experts who evaluated candidates based on creativity and real-world impact.
Receiving the award from Michael Gallagher, Executive Chairman of the Stevie Awards, Al Mazrouei expressed gratitude, highlighting that this achievement reflects the collective efforts of HFZA and SAIF Zone teams. He emphasised their commitment to innovation, excellence, and enhancing business services.
“This recognition strengthens our resolve to adopt cutting-edge practices, foster innovation, and set new benchmarks in free zone management. We remain dedicated to providing a world-class investment environment that simplifies operations for businesses,” Al Mazrouei stated.
He credited His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, for his visionary leadership in advancing the emirate’s free zones. Last year, HFZA and SAIF Zone welcomed over 1,600 new companies, reinforcing Sharjah’s status as a global investment hub.
