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UAE gears up to tackle more rains

There is a chance of scattered light to moderate showers over some northern and eastern areas at night and into Tuesday morning…reports Asian Lite News

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has released the weather forecast for the upcoming week, spanning Monday, April 22nd to Friday, April 26th, predicting light-to-moderate rains over some regions of the country.

There is a chance of scattered light to moderate showers over some northern and eastern areas at night and into Tuesday morning, and a rise in temperatures is expected.

 On Tuesday, the potential for rain increases, with light to moderate showers expected, particularly over the eastern areas.

On Wednesday, NCM predicts partly cloudy skies with a slight possibility of light rain over the far northeastern parts of the country around noon. This day may also see a drop in temperatures.

On Thursday, partly cloudy conditions are expected, transitioning to cloudy skies at times in the afternoon across the far northern and eastern regions. There is a chance of light rain in these areas as well.

On Friday, the forecast suggests the formation of convective clouds towards the east, with a possibility of rainfall over the mountains during the afternoon.

The National Centre of Meteorology said it’s closely monitoring the weather situation and will provide further updates as needed, advising people to stay tuned for any potential changes in the forecast.

Containing future weather events

Hassan Al Mansoori, Undersecretary for Infrastructure and Transport Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI), highlighted that the UAE has proved highly effective in dealing with the consequences of the extreme weather conditions that it experienced last week.

He further noted that the proactive and swift response of various concerned entities has contributed to protecting people’s lives and properties and expediting recovery time, as service facilities, such as roads, bridges, and dams, went back to operation in record time.

Al Mansoori added that following President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s order to study the condition of infrastructure throughout the country to better understand the damages and improve future responses, MoEI joined forces with its partners to form an on-ground force that immediately started to review and assess the damages caused by the intense rainfall.

“The workforce will prepare a complete study on the need to expand dams and waterways so they are ready for and can contain future extreme weather events. Moreover, it will prepare an integrated operational plan to repair the damage caused to federal roads and take proactive measures to ensure the continuity of the roads’ rainwater drainage network. In addition, MoEI is about to follow a proactive plan to maintain water pump stations on federal roads to ensure their preparedness,” he continued.

The Ministry, he said, has put in place integrated plans and schemes for immediate and swift response to emergencies to ensure the safety of people and protect properties and infrastructure.

Free destruction certificates

Brigadier Saif Al Zari Al Shamsi, Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police, has announced that vehicle destruction certificates are now available at no cost for all individuals affected by weather-related damage in Sharjah. These certificates can be obtained through the official channels of Sharjah Police.

Al Shamsi highlighted the availability of destruction certificates for cars damaged by weather through the “Sharjah Police Smart App” and their website, aiming to support efforts and ease burdens during these exceptional circumstances.

He emphasised that field teams, in collaboration with all the concerned parties, are working to ensure residential stability and provide extensive assistance to affected families to bring back normalcy in all cities of the Emirate of Sharjah.

Sharjah extends online learning

The local Emergency, Crisis and Disaster Management Team in Sharjah has decided to extend the distance learning system for private schools in the emirate tomorrow, Monday, 22nd April, to ensure the readiness of schools and surrounding areas to receive students and teaching staff after the recent weather conditions that the country experienced.

The decision comes in order to maintain public safety and the state of alert and readiness to tackle the effects of the weather situation and continuing measures to maintain public safety.

Climate change

Several climate change and weather experts have affirmed that the intense and unprecedented rainfall experienced in the UAE on 16th April is indicative of the severe and exceptional climate shifts occurring globally due to the rise in record carbon emissions, emphasising that this extreme rainfall event cannot be scientifically attributed to artificial cloud seeding.

On 16th April, the UAE experienced the most substantial rainfall in its modern history across numerous regions, marking the largest volume since climate data recording began in 1949.

In this regard, Dr. Diana Francis, Senior Research Scientist, and Head of the Environmental and Geophysical Sciences (ENGEOS) Lab at Khalifa University, said in statements to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that the extreme weather conditions that the UAE has witnessed in mid-April 2024 are exceptional in terms of severity and widespread impacts. “The amount of rain that fell on the 16th is unprecedented and is equivalent to the amount of rain the UAE receives in 2 years or the amount London receives in 7 months on average.”

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Sharjah explores trade, investment ties with India

The IBPC-SCCI meeting highlighted facilitative measures and investment opportunities for Indian firms in Sharjah, emphasising the crucial role of periodic gatherings for communication between stakeholders.

The Indian Business and Professional Council, affiliated with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), has conducted an extensive business meeting to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation and boost bilateral trade volume and mutual investments between the business communities of Sharjah and India.

Discussions delved into prospects for enhancing coordination between the two business communities and exploring investment opportunities across diverse strategic economic sectors.

The meeting also focused on bolstering the exchange of information regarding investment prospects and building sustainable partnerships to fuel growth in trade exchanges and joint investments, leveraging the comprehensive economic partnership between the UAE and India.

Held during the Ramadan suhoor banquet at Sharjah’s Jazerat-al-alam, the meeting was attended by Dr. Khaled Omar Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Media City (Shams), and Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), as well as Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, and Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Business Sector at SCCI.

Also present were Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India in Dubai and the Northern Emirates; Jamal Saeed Buzangal, Director of the Media Department at SCCI; Lalu Samuel, Chairman of the Indian Business and Professional Council, along with members of the Indian Business Council, business community representatives, and heads of major Indian companies operating in Sharjah.

The meeting underscored the facilitative measures and investment prospects extended to Indian companies within the emirate, emphasizing the pivotal role of periodic gatherings in bridging communication between investors, corporate heads, and business leaders from both Sharjah and India.

Moreover, the discussions highlighted the level of investment cooperation and the diverse opportunities available for Indian companies operating in Sharjah, particularly within strategic sectors such as energy, maritime industries, shipping services, and ship agencies. The meeting also delineated opportunities available for Indian companies specializing in commerce, food industries, tourism, real estate, and contracting.

Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi emphasised that the Indian Business Council’s meeting, which brought together all those concerned with consolidating ties between Sharjah and Indian business communities, stands as an essential component of the endeavours made by the Sharjah Chamber and its associated business councils to boost business relations between the two communities.

Stressing its pivotal role in catering to the needs of member companies affiliated with the Indian Business and Professional Council, Al Shamsi added that the meeting aligns with broader efforts to enhance economic and commercial cooperation with India.

He pointed out that such gatherings provide fruitful opportunities for fostering new business partnerships between Indian and Emirati companies, which in turn serve as a fundamental pillar for fortifying bilateral trade and mutual investment.

For his part, Lalu Samuel noted that the Indian Business Council’s meeting aimed at bringing together leaders of Indian companies investing in Sharjah with their counterparts in the emirate, along with relevant entities, to develop cooperative relations and explore further opportunities to achieve the council’s objectives.

Underscoring the importance of fostering communication bridges between Indian companies and economic prospects in Sharjah, Samuel clarified that this initiative seeks to cement sustainable collaborative ties and create avenues for acquainting with efforts supporting investors, and thereby elevating economic activities in the emirate.

An estimated 17,500 Indian companies are currently operating in the Emirate of Sharjah, according to SCCI’s members. The Sharjah Chamber inaugurated the Indian Business and Professional Council in February 2023.

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SCC calls for introducing Sharjah’s attractions

The council also suggested developing marine tourism in collaboration with the emirate’s ports and competent authorities…reports Asian Lite News

The Sharjah Consultative Council (SCC) has recommended that the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority continue integrating with relevant parties and developing the tourism sector while taking advantage of available growth opportunities.

The council also suggested developing marine tourism in collaboration with the emirate’s ports and competent authorities.

During its seventh session, chaired by Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, the council called for a quick study of the need for hotels, particularly in the Eastern Region, to accommodate the increasing demand from tourists and conference organisers. It also recommended the preparation of legislation regulating the use of closed hotels and abandoned facilities.

The council emphasised the importance of completing the development of the tourism sector and providing top-notch services to visitors and tourists in line with Sharjah’s renaissance. It also stressed the need to establish appropriate mechanisms to serve this vital sector and highlight Sharjah’s tourist attractions.

At the start of the session, the council approved the minutes of the previous meeting and discussed the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority’s policy. The committee recommended enhancing the authority’s role in developing the tourism sector.

The council approved the recommendations, which emphasised the importance of providing the tourism sector with prosperity and qualifying it to face challenges and rapid developments. The authority was granted permission to permit tourist activity in rest houses and camps under specific requirements, controls, and standards.

The council also stressed the need for coordination with tourism companies and the employment of national qualifications and expertise in the tourism field.

The council thanked the committee for preparing the project, the Economic, Industrial, and Financial Affairs Committee of the Council, the applicants, and everyone who contributed and shared their observations and opinions, including the General Secretariat employees, for their efforts and fruitful cooperation in enriching the debate.

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Sharjah Ruler receives Ramadan well-wishers

Those who came to extend the Ramadan greetings included sheikhs; senior officials; dignitaries of the country; and UAE citizens who prayed to Allah Almighty to revisit the fasting month with more goodness, progress, security, safety and prosperity for the UAE and its people…reports Asian Lite News

H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, today received at Al Badee’ Palace, Ramadan well-wishers, on the first day of the holy month.

Those who came to extend the Ramadan greetings included sheikhs; senior officials; dignitaries of the country; and UAE citizens who prayed to Allah Almighty to revisit the fasting month with more goodness, progress, security, safety and prosperity for the UAE and its people.

The reception was attended by H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; and several officials from the emirate.

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SCCI Announces 34th Edition of Sharjah Ramadan Festival

Al Owais stressed that the festival will invigorate the tourism sector, thereby bolstering the broader business community…reports Asian Lite News

The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) is set to launch the 34th edition of the Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2024 from 8th March to 13th April. The 37-day event will cover all cities and regions across the emirate. The festival’s organising committee disclosed that preparations for the launch involved meetings with numerous government and private institutions and agencies to foster coordination and collaboration to ensure the event’s success. Key shopping centres, destinations, and retail stores across the emirate will take part in the event, offering a series of marketing, entertainment, and heritage activities that celebrate the holy month.

The 2024 season’s festivities will extend to the cities and suburbs of the central and eastern regions, providing a wide range of products at substantial discounts. The festival will be further enhanced by exciting draws, competitions, and valuable prizes for attendees, along with a variety of recreational activities that celebrate the unique spirit of Ramadan. Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the SCCI, emphasised that the Sharjah Ramadan Festival has become a vital catalyst for stimulating the emirate’s economic landscape, particularly the retail sector, a cornerstone of the emirate’s economic activity.

Al Owais stressed that the festival will invigorate the tourism sector, thereby bolstering the broader business community. He highlighted the event’s social significance, pointing out how its entertainment and heritage events create a special ambiance for Ramadan, spreading joy among Sharjah’s residents and visitors, and fostering social and cultural engagement. For his part, Mohammad Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of the SCCI, said that the upcoming edition of the Sharjah Ramadan Festival has been meticulously planned to engage major shopping centres and retail outlets across the emirate to present competitive offers and enticing discounts to the public. Aligning with this initiative, the Ramadan Nights exhibition at Expo Centre Sharjah is set to launch, aiming to broaden the community’s access to a diverse range of products and merchandise at competitive prices throughout the holy month, enhancing the festive shopping experience.

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Sharjah Tourism to Shine at ITB Berlin

Sharjah to highlight best of its adventure, cultural riches, natural beauty at ITB Berlin 2024…reports Asian Lite News

The Emirate of Sharjah is gearing up for its participation in the ITB Berlin – the world’s leading travel trade show, slated for March 5-7, 2024. Themed ‘Pioneer the Transition in Travel & Tourism. Together’, the Sharjah Pavilion will host an impressive roster of 19 entities, consisting of government and private sectors, spearheaded by Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA). Participants, representing a broad tourism and hospitality industry spectrum, including cultural and entertainment sectors, will showcase the emirate’s multifaceted tourism experiences that have positioned Sharjah as a prime global destination.

The emirate’s participation underscores its mission to foster international tourism partnerships to draw a greater influx of visitors and investors, with a keen eye on the European market.

Commenting on the upcoming participation, Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of SCTDA, said: “In an era where the tourism industry witnesses unprecedented dynamism, we must embrace change, pursue innovation, and spearhead development vigorously. Our ambition is to not only match the pace of global advancements in hospitality, transportation, and leisure but also to set benchmarks in enriching cultural, heritage, and natural explorations. Our presence at ITB Berlin this year will showcase Sharjah’s leading projects, both existing and in the pipeline, and to vividly present our emirate’s distinguished attributes, exemplary services, and unique tourism offerings.”

Al Midfa added: “Our participation in this year’s ITB Berlin effectively contributes to supporting our plans and efforts in line with the vision and directives of H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, of enhancing the emirate’s position on the global tourism map.”

“ITB Berlin is an important platform to promote the emirate as a premier global tourism destination. It opens avenues for international collaborations with key stakeholders, investors, and global entities in the tourism and travel industry. The European market, with Germany at its core, remains instrumental for Sharjah, marking it as our second-largest European tourism source next to the United Kingdom. Engaging in this edition is a strategic move to bolster our initiatives and collaborative efforts to elevate the tourism landscape and drive a substantial increase in visitor numbers to our emirate,” continued Al Midfa.

Sharjah is set to captivate visitors from Europe and globally at the ITB Berlin, showcasing a spectrum of seamless and integrated tourist experiences that span various sectors—from infrastructure and transportation, highlighted by Sharjah International Airport Authority, Sharjah Airport Travel Agency (SATA) and Air Arabia’s exemplary air transport services, to environmental wonders presented by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) with gems like the Sharjah Safari. Meanwhile, the Sharjah Marine Club will highlight various marine sports and activities in the emirate.

In heritage, culture, and leisure, Sharjah’s rich tapestry is unfurled by the Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA), Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIOH), and Sharjah Classic Cars Club, each narrating the emirate’s storied past and vibrant cultural landscape. The tourism and hospitality sector shines with the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) showcase of its portfolio, including a suite of exclusive staycations and resorts part of the Sharjah Collection, namely Al Faya Retreat, Al Badayer Retreat, Moon Retreat, Kingfisher Retreat, Nomad, Najd Al Meqsar Village and others.

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Sharjah Ruler Unveils Project to Revive Old Town of Al Hira

The project to revive the old town of Al Hira includes the house of Sultan bin Abdullah bin Majid Al Owais, the house of Hamid Khalaf Bu Khasrah, and the house of Khalifa Sultan Al Suwaidi….reports Asian Lite News

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated, on Wednesday, a project to revive the old town of Al Hira in the city of Sharjah.
Upon His Highness’s arrival in Al Hira area, His Highness unveiled the memorial that commemorates the founding of the town of Al Hira four centuries ago in the year 1613 AD, in which Al Qawasim arrived in the city of Sharjah.

After that, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah opened the house of Sultan bin Abdullah bin Majid Al Owais, which is located on an area of 900 square metres, to be Al Hira Literary Majlis.

His Highness unveiled the Sultan bin Abdullah bin Majid Al Owais Mosque, announcing the opening of the mosque, and listened to an explanation of the details of rebuilding the mosque.

The project to revive the old town of Al Hira includes the house of Sultan bin Abdullah bin Majid Al Owais, the house of Hamid Khalaf Bu Khasrah, and the house of Khalifa Sultan Al Suwaidi.

Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman bin Salem Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Ruler’s Office, Abdulrahman bin Mohamed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention, Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Sharjah Consultative Council, and a number of senior officials, heads and directors of local departments, witnessed the event.

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Sharjah Bans NY Fireworks in Gaza Solidarity

Sharjah Police said the reflects genuine solidarity and humanitarian cooperation with the residents of the Gaza Strip….reports Asian Lite News

In a display of solidarity and humanitarian cooperation with the people of Gaza, the emirate of Sharjah has decided to ban all New Year’s Eve fireworks displays and celebrations.

Sharjah Police, through a statement, underscored the significance of this move, emphasising that it reflects genuine solidarity and humanitarian cooperation with the residents of the Gaza Strip.

The announcement, made via a Facebook post by Sharjah police, included a warning on Tuesday regarding the implementation of legal measures against individuals found violating the ban.

“Sharjah Police appeals to all institutions and individuals to cooperate and commit to it, stating that it will take all legal actions against those who violate the instructions, and affirms that human solidarity is an established culture and thought practiced by the Emirate of Sharjah,” Sharjah Police said in a facebook post.

As the UAE’s third-largest emirate in terms of both size and population, after Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

The UAE established diplomatic ties with Israel in 2020, setting a precedent for other nations to engage with Israel. Despite this, the Gulf regional power has consistently advocated for a humanitarian ceasefire in the Gaza conflict, condemning Israel’s military actions in the region.

King of Jordan His Majesty King Abdullah and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi on Wednesday reiterated their complete rejection of all attempts to liquidate the Palestinian issue and forcibly displace Palestinians in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.

At a meeting in Cairo, King Abdullah reaffirmed Jordan’s support for Egypt’s firm position against any attempts to displace Gaza residents.

The King and President El Sisi stressed the need for the entire world to push towards an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and the delivery of sufficient and sustainable humanitarian aid to alleviate the tragic situation and the suffering of Gazans.

The two leaders said the international community shoulders an immense political and ethical responsibility towards implementing United Nations Security Council and General Assembly resolutions, in order to maintain the integrity of these international entities.

The two leaders also stressed the need to counter any attempts to re-occupy parts of Gaza, build buffer zones in the Strip, or separate it from the West Bank.

They warned against the continuation of the war on Gaza, which could plunge the entire region into a catastrophe whose price everyone will pay, stressing the need to prevent the spillover of the conflict that threatens regional and international security and stability.

King Abdullah said the continued expansion of Israeli operations in southern Gaza will have catastrophic humanitarian and security repercussions, especially in light of the dangerous humanitarian situation.

Safe NY celebration in Dubai

Dubai’s Events Security Committee (ESC) has announced a comprehensive plan to secure the New Year’s Eve festivities across Dubai. The Committee said that the comprehensive plan, involving a total of 11,972 personnel, including 5,574 police officers, and 1,525 patrols, civil defence and ambulance vehicles, will ensure the smooth management of the New Year’s Eve 2024 celebrations.

The Committee also revealed a new security mechanism that divides the emirate into four sectors – North, Central, West and the Maritime sector – to enhance security operations, provide quality services to the public and make optimal use of human resources in collaboration with partners.

With the aim of ensuring that people across Dubai can enjoy the festivities, the ESC, in coordination with the Permanent Committee for Labour Affairs in Dubai, has arranged several viewing areas for the worker community. Equipped with six viewing screens and food services, these viewing areas will allow viewers to enjoy the fireworks and partake in the festivities safely while helping avoid congestion in the city.

The Event Security Committee, comprising 55 government and private entities in Dubai, said that 32 locations in Dubai will feature fireworks displays, with notable sites including Burj Khalifa, The Beach, Bluewaters (JBR), Palm Jumeirah, Kite Beach, among others.

Road Closures

To prevent bottlenecks during the festivities, Al Ali said that the streets surrounding the Burj Khalifa area and Dubai Mall will see closures implemented by RTA’s operational team. The teams will work in cooperation with Dubai Police and Emaar to manage the closures.

According to RTA, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard will be closed from 4:00 pm when parking in the area becomes full. Those with reservations in the Boulevard area or Dubai Mall should therefore arrive before 4:00 pm on Sunday.

The lower Financial Centre Road will also see a closure from 4:00 pm, while the upper Financial Centre Road and Al Sukook Street will be closed from 8:00 pm.

In addition, Al Asayel Street, from Oud Metha Road towards Burj Khalifa, will be closed from 4:00 pm and it will serve as an emergency route and bus layby. Future Street will close from 4:00 pm on the stretch between Za’abeel 2 Street and Al Meydan Street. It will remain closed until the festivities conclude.

Metro and Tram Services

Al Ali noted that the Red and Green Lines of the Dubai Metro will operate continuously for 40 hours from 8:00 am on Sunday, 31 December until midnight on Monday, 1 January, 2024.

The Dubai Tram will also operate from 9:00 am on Sunday, 31 December till 1 am on Tuesday, 2 January, 2024 for 40 hours.

The extended operational hours facilitate public access to and from the event area. The Burj Khalifa Metro Station will close from 5:00 pm.

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SEF 2024 Set to Ignite Entrepreneurial Spirit

Spanning nine specialised areas, it focuses on key sectors such as technology, creative economy, and sustainability, creating a dynamic platform for networking and innovation….reports Asian Lite News

The UAE’s largest celebration of entrepreneurship, the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) 2024, is taking an immersive approach for its 7th edition on 3rd and 4th February, 2024, bringing together more than 150 visionary founders, industry leaders, investors, and emerging entrepreneurs.

Spanning nine specialised areas, it focuses on key sectors such as technology, creative economy, and sustainability, creating a dynamic platform for networking and innovation.

The event comprises five exclusive zones and four stages; within these dedicated zones, SEF 2024 will host more than 200 activities, including discussions, pitch competitions, performances, creative workshops, investor-investee networking sessions, and more. These specialised areas will present boundless opportunities for entrepreneurial engagement and innovation for the entire ecosystem and have been strategically designed around key streams of “impact”, “founders”, “community”, and “creativity”, offering founders, VCs, tech leaders, investors, aspiring entrepreneurs, and ecosystem enablers a vibrant platform to connect, learn, ideate, and scout the next big opportunity.

Speaking about the festival, Najla Al Midfa, CEO of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), stated, “We have put a great deal of thought and effort into creating a truly immersive and empowering experience for all who will attend SEF 2024. Under our overarching theme of ‘Our Shared Canvas’, SEF 2024 will encapsulate the essence of collaborative innovation and collective impact. It is a powerful metaphor, illustrating how the diverse strokes of individual and collective efforts create a positive, sustainable entrepreneurship ecosystem.”

The five designated zones and four exclusive stages within each themed area at SEF 2024 are more than spaces. They have been designed as mini-ecosystems specialising in the key sectors of technology, creative economy, sustainability, and more. These vibrant spaces will host more than 150 renowned speakers and over 30 workshops on numerous topics of interest to both existing and emerging entrepreneurial talents. They feature more than 100 exhibiting start-ups, including tech-driven sustainability-focused founders, and more, enabling festival attendees to transform their ideas into opportunities, paving the way for limitless possibilities.

The Impact Stage Powered by Arada will host the opening ceremony and serve as the key platform for global and local speakers, shedding light on entrepreneurs’ roles as business leaders and contributors to societal and global changes. Representing a melting pot of entrepreneurial sectors and communities, genuinely reflecting the SEF 2024 theme of “Our Shared Canvas,” this stage will provide valuable insight and inspiration from local and global thought leaders, giving a comprehensive window into the present and future business landscape.

True to the entrepreneurial spirit of SEF 2024, the Start-up Town, Powered By EMAAR, will feature exhibiting start-ups, the immersive “Sharjah Pavilion”, and the Founder Stage, which will host lively discussions on advanced technology, investment insights, artificial intelligence, and other topics that are shaping the business world. On this stage, the highly anticipated “Start-up Pitch Competition” will unveil the next significant entrepreneurial breakthroughs, while an Investors Lounge will enable aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to connect with potential investors and VCs, helping founders to gain crucial insights into scaling strategies and financial backing.

The Sustainability Zone — powered by Sharjah Sustainable City and BEEAH Group, and prime examples of eco-conscious ventures and enterprises — will champion activities and talks with an environmental theme. It will enable connections, collaboration, and discourse between those with an eco-progressive mindset, underscoring the importance of sustainability in entrepreneurship and highlighting the positive impact that innovative solutions can have on environmental and social issues.

The lively centrepiece of the festival, and SEF 2024’s designated space for live entertainment, the Creative Zone, will host an incredible lineup of more than 15 performers and entertainers on the Creative Stage. This is where renowned global and regional performers, filmmakers, content creators, and other creative pioneers will provide unforgettable entertainment throughout the festival.

Community Zone, featuring a Community Stage, will provide a perfect place to network and facilitate collaboration within the local and regional entrepreneurial and SME community. Through coworking spaces, start-up pods, and a dedicated workshop area, this zone will also provide a space for cross-pollination between like-minded SMEs, presenting a unique opportunity to gain knowledge, share expertise, and ideas, as well as a place to forge strong partnerships.

Finally, SEF 2024 is the ideal place to be inspired and see entrepreneurship in action. The Souq Zone is designed as an engaging market space to relax, try incredible food and refreshments, connect with other festival attendees, and show support for start-ups by shopping at their pop-up outlets featuring the latest in fashion, beauty, cosmetics, FB, and more.

Organised by Sheraa, SEF 2024 is set to captivate audiences at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP). Under the theme of “Our Shared Canvas,” this celebration of entrepreneurship promises an immersive experience and becomes a hub of ideas and opportunities.

Registration for SEF 2024 is now open at Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2024 (sharjahef.com).

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Sharjah Ladies Run’s 9th Edition Promises an Out-of-World Experience

The Run will offer a 5KM race aims to provide female runners and fitness enthusiasts with a competitive run and to encourage Emirati young girls and ladies to participate, the club has allocated prizes for Emirati participants…reports Asian Lite News

Sharjah Ladies Club is thrilled to announce the 9th Edition of the Sharjah Ladies Run, under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, Chairperson of Sharjah Ladies Club. It is set to take place on January 20th from 6pm to 10pm at Shaghrafa Ladies Park. This year’s theme promises an out of world experience, with a new title “Run into the Galaxy”, which reflects the spirit of excitement, and takes contestants to new dimensions that combines fitness and fun.

The Run will offer a 5KM race aims to provide female runners and fitness enthusiasts with a competitive run and to encourage Emirati young girls and ladies to participate, the club has allocated prizes for Emirati participants. The first three winners from each category will receive valuable cash prizes of up to AED 20,000 and incredible gifts presented by the event’s sponsors. To promote widespread participation, the club has introduced a fun category to encourage ladies and girls to enjoy the running experience.

Excitement awaits with a variety of activities and entertainment, including a Zumba class provided by Fitness 180 center instructors, fitness challenges and warm-up exercises. In addition to healthy snacks and drinks will be available, along with exclusive offers and activities provided by the club’s facilities ensuring a memorable experience for all.

The registration is opened to participants aged 12+ years through the SLC mobile application. Tips and motivational advice on exercise and nutrition will be available on SLC social media channels.

Established as a beacon of women empowerment in Sharjah, Sharjah Ladies Club stands as a distinct destination that supports the multifaceted lives of women. With a wide array of services spanning fitness, beauty treatments, hospitality, and leisure activities, the Club ensures a holistic experience. Dedicated to providing women with a serene, luxurious, and private environment, Sharjah Ladies Club continues to align with the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, Chairperson of Sharjah Ladies Club, to establish an iconic ladies- and children-only destination, championing the empowerment, growth, and well-being of women in the region.

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