Sharjah Records 45% Increase in FDI Projects, UAE Economy Attracts Global Investors

Sharjah experienced a 45% increase in foreign direct investment (FDI) projects in the past year, according to Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah). This growth highlights the UAE's growing competitiveness and attractiveness as a global investment destination, even as capital becomes more selective internationally.

Al Musharrkh's comments were made in anticipation of the ninth Sharjah Investment Forum, scheduled for 14th and 15th October at the Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre. The forum, organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Investment, will convene over 80 speakers, including ministers, investors, and experts, to discuss adapting economies to global changes under the theme "Building Adaptive Economies."

Pillars of UAE's Economic Attractiveness

Al Musharrkh identified four key pillars underpinning the UAE economy's appeal to investors:

• Economic Diversification: Non-oil activities constituted 79.4% of the economy in the first quarter of 2026, driven by sectors such as financial services, construction, healthcare, and telecommunications. This diversification provides a robust foundation for sustained growth across various economic cycles.
• Flexible Legislative Ecosystem: The UAE ranks first globally in 'Adaptability of Government Policy' and 'Bureaucracy', and fourth in 'Legal and Regulatory Framework'. These high rankings reflect an environment conducive to business setup, operation, and expansion.
• Talent Attraction and Empowerment: The UAE has prioritised attracting skilled professionals, ranking first globally in 'employment and international experience' and second in 'creation of firms'. The country was also the first to appoint a Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence in 2017, with over 70% of its working-age population now utilising AI.
• Early Positioning in Emerging Sectors: The UAE has proactively positioned itself in new industries, with manufacturing and telecommunications leading greenfield investment, securing an advanced stance in shaping the future investment landscape.

Sharjah, within this national framework, is characterised by an economy focused on production and knowledge, offering investors a stable environment with clear priorities, aligning with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.