Sharjah’s economy is poised for impressive growth, projected to expand by up to 7.5% in 2025. This optimistic forecast is attributed to smarter policies, increased economic integration, and foreign investments across key sectors, according to Sheikh Fahim Bin Sultan Bin Khalid Al Qasimi, executive chairman of the Department of Government Relations.

According to Khaleej Times, during the Sharjah Ramadan Majlis 2025, Al Qasimi emphasized the importance of engaging in candid discussions with the private sector. He highlighted the need for the government to better protect core industries such as manufacturing, trading, agriculture, and the environment. He stated that greater integration and collaboration with private entities would facilitate growth between 6.5% and 7.5%.

Al Qasimi noted that Sharjah’s economy is currently valued at approximately $45 billion. In 2023, the emirate experienced a growth rate of 6.5%, which was 3.5% higher than the global average. Key sectors contributing to this growth include the automotive industry, which accounts for 24% of the economy, followed by agriculture and vehicle parts trading at 19%, manufacturing at nearly 17%, and the food ecosystem, also at about 17%. He further mentioned a positive outlook for the real estate sector, crediting developers like Alef and Arada for their investments in the region.

Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, added that Sharjah’s appeal to companies is enhanced by initiatives such as “Invest in Sharjah,” which is supported by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) and the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park. He pointed out that the emirate provides various incentives and benefits for businesses looking to take advantage of Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreements (CEPAs).

Juma Al Kait, assistant undersecretary for foreign trade at the Ministry of Economy, highlighted that foreign trade is central to the UAE’s economic strategy. He reported that Sharjah’s foreign trade grew by 8.1% in 2024 compared to the previous year, reflecting significant growth that outpaces global trends. Al Kait indicated that there remains substantial potential for the private sector to capitalize on existing agreements.