Focus Report


Sharjah has engineered a transformation into a leading hub for innovation and entrepreneurship in the MENA region. The emirate’s success is powered by a uniquely integrated ecosystem that seamlessly connects talent development at institutions like the American University of Sharjah (AUS), venture creation and mentorship through the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), and scaling at the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SPARK). This collaborative ‘triple helix’ model, underpinned by supportive policy and a focus on inclusivity, has yielded impressive results: a 95% start-up survival rate, the creation of thousands of jobs, and significant foreign direct investment. This report details the Sharjah Model, offering a replicable blueprint for building a resilient, knowledge-driven economy poised for sustainable growth in sectors from advanced manufacturing to the creative industries.