An excerpt from our exclusive interview with the Sharjah Investment & Development Authority (Shurooq) executive chairman, Marwan Jassim Al Sarkal about Sharjah and its many flavours…
A relaxing sea salt spa in the middle of the desert. Sighting Arabian Collared Kingfishers and Hawksbill sea turtle nesting areas amidst one of the oldest mangrove reserves. Being in oneness with nature and endangered species, which include the Arabian gazelles among others. Experiencing Emirati homes from the 50s. Even more mesmerising is finding archaeological traces from the Neolithic age. Now throw into it a mix of retail outlets, alfresco dining options, a waterpark and a ride on a giant Ferris wheel. You can find all this in the emirate of Sharjah, the cultural capital of the UAE.
It must take a lot of effort and foresightedness to make all this happen. Let’s also not forget that Sharjah used to be the first port of call when trading activities started in the UAE. And Shurooq is working tirelessly to reinforce Sharjah’s position as an investment hub alongside being a culturally rich emirate with profound legacy.
“The only mandate is every single project we undertake must have a positive social, economic and environmental impact on Sharjah. We have our challenges but also a unique positioning. So far, it has been a rollercoaster of a ride. But it has been an exciting one too, transforming destinations and creating a niche positioning for Sharjah, which always existed but never showcased,” said Al Sarkal.
Ours is an on-going journey, he added and also quipped, “I get bored very quickly. That’s why I have to find new things to work on regularly.” Every day Al Sarkal seeks a new challenge, turning it into an opportunity. “And we are very passionate about what we do. Our goal is to complement the other emirates beautifully. Importantly, the leadership at Shurooq – His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, ruler of Sharjah, and member of the UAE Supreme Council, and his daughter Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, chairperson of Shurooq – is very encouraging and ever keen to build new talent, invest in new and unique projects and elevate Sharjah’s stature,” he stressed.
The full story has been published in our May edition
Watsons to open 20 new stores in the GCC
In 2020, global health & beauty retailer AS Watson Group signed its
April 29, 2024 | By Rupkatha BLandmark Group’s ‘Circulife’ could be a “giant leap” towards UAE’s textile circularity goals
“We want to not just match the price; but beat it,” claims Chemist Warehouse CEO
Landmark Group to invest $1-bn to grow the business, open 400 stores
/ 
For decades, Haldiram’s built deep recall across the UAE through its packaged
When House of Habanero opened its first physical location at Alserkal Avenue
Union Coop has completed a significant expansion of its Hatta Souq branch,
Saudi Arabia is set to welcome U.S. food exporters this week, as
Majid Al Futtaim has officially entered the discount retail segment with the
As convenience increasingly becomes currency in the region’s grocery landscape, Union Coop
As wellness becomes a lifestyle in the UAE, the grocery aisle is
Grandiose, one of the leading grocery retailers in the UAE with a
With shifting consumer behaviour, rising cost pressures, regulatory changes, and rapid digitization,
Union Coop’s blend of retail expansion, digital innovation, and community focus is
Abu Dhabi-based MAIR Group has marked a pivotal stage in its transformation
In a move that blurs the line between shopping and investing, Apparel
/ 
Why cinemas, wellness sanctuaries and cultural districts are becoming emotional infrastructure for
From bullion to boutiques, investment to immersion, Dubai Gold District marks a
NRF Vice President of Education Strategy Susan Reda forecasts 2025’s retail trends
The Dubai Duty Free (DDF) has recorded sales of $1.94 billion up
In what comes as a significant announcement, Middle East based eyewear majors
Emirati Gen Z women are seeking collaborative, culturally diverse and creatively enriching
GMG’s Everyday Goods – Retail division celebrates expansion milestone hitting 60 stores
Among several others, three key factors have fuelled the growth of homegrown
Empowering women, transforming communities: The rise of female-led businesses in Times Square Center
In its central Dubai location, Times Square Center stands not just as
Previous Article
