Sharjah

About Sharjah

Sharjah, the third largest emirate in the UAE, covers an area of 2,590sq. km and showcases stunning landscapes and seascapes.

The emirate boasts numerous educational institutions that equip individuals with the latest knowledge in engineering, science, technology, and other skills crucial for economic development.

With a population of around 1.8 million, Sharjah is home to 208,000 Emirati citizens and 1.6 million expatriates. It is the only emirate that borders both the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.

Sharjah features vast desert regions, agricultural areas, and islands like Sir Bu Nuair and Abu Musa. It also houses the highest number of natural reserves in the UAE.

The emirate comprises five major cities, each with its own unique characteristics. Khorfakkan, Kalba, Dibba, and Al Dhaid are among the notable cities in Sharjah.

The initial calculations for 2022 show that Sharjah’s GDP has increased by 5.2 percent, reaching AED 136.9 billion compared to AED 130.1 billion in 2021. The non-oil sector saw a 5.2 percent rise, totaling AED 133.4 billion in 2022 compared to AED 126.8 billion in 2021.

The key economic activities contributing to the emirate’s GDP growth were wholesale and retail trade, along with the repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles, amounting to AED 32.9 billion, followed by manufacturing at AED 22.9 billion.

Sharjah boasts three ports and multiple free zones.

Expo Centre Sharjah is a popular venue for trade exhibitions in the region, hosting various B2B and B2C events.

Arts and culture

Sharjah has evolved into a hub for arts and culture, with its cultural scene thriving under the patronage of H. H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.

In 1998, UNESCO designated it as ‘The Cultural Capital of the Arab World’.

In 2014, it was named the Capital of Islamic Culture for 2014 by the Organisation of Islamic Countries.

Sharjah was also honored as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2015 during the 15th session of the Council of Arab Ministers of Tourism in Cairo on October 18, 2012.

Moreover, it was named the Capital of Arab Press 2016 during the opening of the fifth annual International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) and awarded the prestigious ‘World Book Capital’ title for 2019 by UNESCO.

Today, Sharjah is home to nearly a quarter of all of the UAE’s museums and hosts popular events like the Sharjah Biennial and Sharjah International Book Fair.

Touristic significance

Sharjah is renowned for its architectural heritage and cultural richness. It is famous for its diverse tourist sites, including historical areas like the Heart of Sharjah and modern locations like Al Qasba and Al Majaz waterfront.

H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the ruling family of the emirate of Sharjah, has been carrying on the legacy of Al Qasimi rulers since 1600 AD.

Dr. Sheikh Sultan has taken the lead in introducing significant initiatives both locally and internationally. He holds the esteemed position of being a Founding Member of the Companion of The Guild of Cambridge Benefactors at Cambridge University. Additionally, he is also a Founding Member of the University of Exeter’s College of Benefactors at Exeter University.