SHARJAH: The Sharjah Ramadan Majlis 2025, held in Mleiha, focused on the emirate’s industrial future and its role in regional economic growth. The event brought together government leaders, industry experts, and entrepreneurs to discuss strategies for boosting manufacturing and innovation.

Under the theme “Sharjah: Shaping the Future, Empowering Growth,” the Majlis welcomed Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of American University of Sharjah; Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade; and Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah. Sheikha Bodour highlighted the importance of integrating innovation with sustainability to ensure Sharjah’s economic resilience.

Organised by Shurooq, Invest in Sharjah, Sheraa, and SRTI Park, the event convened senior officials from the UAE’s Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Sharjah’s Economic Integration Committee. Discussions centred on enhancing the manufacturing sector, which contributes 35% of the UAE’s total industrial output, reinforcing Sharjah’s growing role in global trade.

Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi emphasised the impact of the UAE’s CEPA agreements in expanding trade with India, Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America, attracting global interest in Sharjah. Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi highlighted Sharjah’s impressive economic performance, noting its AED 145 billion GDP, exceeding the global growth average by 3.5%.

Key announcements included three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to boost innovation and entrepreneurship. The ‘Innovate in Sharjah’ platform was also launched to support AI, technology, and industrial development.

Mleiha’s selection as the venue reflected Sharjah’s commitment to merging heritage with progress. Home to key agricultural projects, it symbolises the emirate’s dedication to sustainable investment and long-term economic transformation.