The 8th annual Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) 2025 commenced on February 1 at Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP). The event featured global innovators, business leaders, and changemakers. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sheraa, inaugurated the festival.
Notable attendees included Sheikha Hoor Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, HRH Princess Lamia Bint Majed Saud AlSaud, and Minister Alia Bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei. Participants witnessed the unveiling of “Eshara,” the world’s first AI-driven Arabic sign language translation system, created by Sheraa Startup winners.
Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival brings Social Change
The festival featured a powerful discussion on social impact led by Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi and HRH Princess Lamia Al Saud. They explored how art and philanthropy foster human connection and drive positive change.
Sheikha Hoor emphasized the importance of engaging with diverse individuals in society. She also announced the launch of the Sharjah Creative Quarter, founded by a decree from His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi.
Princess Lamia highlighted philanthropic efforts empowering communities in 190 countries. She shared success stories, including Careem taxis for physically challenged captains and Afghan textile artisans now featured at Harrods.
UAE’s Vision for Entrepreneurship
Minister Al Mazrouei outlined initiatives to support young entrepreneurs and SMEs. She highlighted RIYADA, a program designed to boost startup success rates to 50% by 2031. The program includes AED 300 million in incentives for graduates.
She emphasized that SMEs contribute 63.5% to the UAE’s non-oil GDP and employ 86% of the private sector workforce.
Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival honors partner
Sheraa honored key partners, including Arada and Du, for supporting SEF 2025. Sheikha Bodour inaugurated the “SEF Vault,” a VIP networking lounge designed by Jawaher Al Khayal.
The festival concluded with two MoU signings. Microsoft, Sheraa, Shurooq, and AUS formed a partnership to connect academia with industry. Another MoU between SRTIP and Enterprise Ireland focused on strengthening UAE-Ireland business ties.
SEF 2025 reaffirmed Sharjah’s position as a hub for global entrepreneurship.
