In the first half of 2025, Sharjah attracted a record $1.5 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI), a significant increase from $325 million during the same period last year. This represents a 361% growth in capital investment, the highest among all emirates in the UAE, as announced by Invest in Sharjah.
Between January and June this year, Sharjah initiated 74 FDI projects, marking a 57% rise from 47 projects in the same timeframe last year. Job creation also surged by 45%, with 2,578 new positions compared to 1,779 in the first half of 2024.
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), stated, “These figures signify transformative impacts on lives and a lasting legacy for future generations.”
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She added, “These numbers underscore Sharjah’s economic momentum and increasing investor confidence, highlighting the emirate’s ability to transform capital into sustainable and inclusive growth.”
Sheikha Bodour further emphasized, “Sharjah’s remarkable economic progress as the fastest-growing emirate in the UAE reflects a holistic vision prioritizing human welfare and balanced development.”
“We are strategically channeling capital to align ambition with community needs, integrating culture and development for a sustainable growth model,” she noted.
Sheikha Bodour
Top-performing sectors
February 2025 saw the peak of FDI activity in Sharjah, both in project count and capital investment.
The consumer products sector led growth, with a 53% increase in projects and a 188% rise in capital investment.
The F&B sector experienced a 112% growth in projects and a 25% increase in job creation.
The business services sector saw a significant boost, with a 500% rise in project activities and a 1,100% surge in employment.
The industrial equipment sector achieved 100% growth in project volume and a 45% increase in capital expenditure.
Infographic by Invest in Sharjah
Strategic investments
Key strategic projects announced in early 2025 include a residential community by Kuwait Real Estate Company to meet rising housing demand. Additionally, Italy’s Greenthesis Group established a polyethene film recycling plant, and India’s Gxpress built a warehouse and distribution hub.
India’s Vinsmera Jewels launched a gold jewellery manufacturing facility and retail outlet, while Singapore’s G-TEC set up a training and certification center to boost local ICT talent and workforce development.
Capital and community values
Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, emphasized that the emirate’s ongoing growth “reflects a strategic vision and integrated policy framework supporting investment, underpinned by economic and financial stability, advanced infrastructure, and a flexible regulatory environment.”
“This growth is pivotal for reshaping the emirate’s development landscape by empowering national talent through quality job opportunities and enhancing economic participation. Sharjah exemplifies how to convert capital into tangible social and economic value, fostering a development model that balances economic strength with social stability,” he stated.
Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh
