Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) CEO Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer says the emirate is pairing cultural and natural assets with industrial development to attract investors seeking durable local operations.
In a Nov. 6 opinion article for Gulf News, Al Qaseer said investment is not measured by the initial capital alone. He said Sharjah attracted 142 foreign direct investment projects in 2025 worth about Dh7.74 billion. The projects generated more than 5,600 new jobs. The volume, he wrote, shows the scale of activity; a project's quality, how long firms remain and their contribution to the local economy also matter.
His argument puts investor decisions in a wider frame. Al Qaseer said businesses weigh market size and operating costs alongside policy consistency, effective governance and quality of life. He tied those considerations to geopolitical change, rivalry among economic centers, and rising attention to sustainability and knowledge-based industries. He said a distinct economic identity may help a city maintain an advantage as infrastructure and services become more comparable.
His examples show how that approach takes shape. Heart of Sharjah links historic buildings with commercial, cultural and tourism activity. Mleiha National Park draws on the area's landscape and heritage to support tourism. House of Wisdom presents learning and creative work through a contemporary cultural venue. Al Qaseer portrayed the sites as ways to turn Sharjah's particular strengths into economic opportunities.
He argued that economic gains could extend beyond tourism. In his view, investment in cultural, social and environmental strengths may appeal to specialized businesses and talent, help new sectors and tourism grow, and build stronger relationships between investors and communities. Al Qaseer also presented the emirate's approach as a balance between expanding industry, preserving heritage and supporting quality of life.
Al Qaseer said Sharjah wants companies that establish lasting operations, broaden the economy, employ people and build ties with local communities. He presented Sharjah's distinctive character as part of its development strategy.
