ICT
From The Report: Sharjah 2023
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Aligned with national strategies like We the UAE 2031, Sharjah is positioning itself as a competitive ICT centre through innovative digital transformation policies and substantial infrastructure investment. The emirate has implemented advanced solutions including a digital payment mechanism to enhance accessibility to information and services for residents.
The UAE’s comprehensive digital government strategies, such as UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025 and Operation 300bn, emphasise its dedication to global technological leadership. Additionally, the country’s telecoms segment is seeing growth with several government-owned companies leading the way in the deployment of 5G services. Furthermore, Sharjah is actively participating in technology development initiatives, investing in 3D printing and supporting start-ups. The future outlook emphasises the interplay between digitalisation, sustainability and innovative technologies, establishing Sharjah as a prominent player in the region’s digital transformation landscape.

This chapter features interviews with Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO, Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park; and Najla Al Midfa, CEO, Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

Expansion plans: Investment in digital infrastructure is helping position Sharjah at the forefront of the region’s economic development
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Innovative digital transformation policies alongside sustained investment in related infrastructure have helped establish Sharjah as a digital centre within the UAE and the broader GCC region. Although telecommunications and internet provision are managed primarily at the federal level, the emirate has developed advanced digital services to improve the lives of its residents. Sharjah’s mobile application and digital payment mechanism have helped the emirate streamline access to information and…

Interview

Innovative solutions: Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO, Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP), on how emerging technologies can increase efficiency and contribute to economic expansion
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Interview:Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO, Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) How has the COP28 UN Conference on Climate Change impacted the local innovation ecosystem? HUSSAIN AL MAHMOUDI: COP28 was a pivotal event for the UAE because of its catalysing role across various sectors as a driver of innovation. Beyond being a global climate summit, the conference was a platform where entrepreneurs, companies and technologies could converge to discuss climate-related issues. This…

Interview

Innovative drive: Najla Al Midfa, CEO, Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), on supporting new start-ups and female entrepreneurs
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Interview:Najla Al Midfa, CEO, Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa) How would you assess the environment of innovation and creativity for entrepreneurs? NAJLA AL MIDFA: Our approach goes beyond funding, and encourages an entrepreneurial spirit and mindset. This is achieved in part through inspiring would-be entrepreneurs through events like the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival. At the same time, hands-on efforts to equip start-up founders with mentorship and the necessary skills to thrive…