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EPA showcases industry impact at Sharjah book fair 

The Ruler of Sharjah was briefed on the Association’s activities and efforts to develop the publishing industry locally and regionally…reports Asian Lite News

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, visited the Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) stand at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair. His Highness was welcomed by Rashid Al Kous, the Association’s Executive Director. 

The Ruler of Sharjah was briefed on the Association’s activities and efforts to develop the publishing industry locally and regionally. Al Kous presented His Highness with a study conducted in collaboration with the TRENDS Research and Advisory Centre, exploring the EPA’s impact on the UAE’s publishing industry, under the patronage of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and Honorary President of the EPA, highlighting the main challenges and opportunities faced by the UAE’s publishing sector and offering recommendations to strengthen the industry. 

Al Kous reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to supporting and empowering Emirati publishers and fostering a conducive environment for the growth and prosperity of the book industry in the UAE: “As the regulator and enabler of the publishing sector in the UAE, under the vision and guidance of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the Emirates Publishers Association dedicates its capabilities to enhancing the strength and distinctiveness of this sector, nurturing its growth and sustainability to support the creative economy in the country.” 

A panel discussion titled “The Impact of the Emirates Publishers Association on Supporting the Cultural Publishing Movement” was moderated by Abdullah Al Khaja, Researcher at Trends. During the session, HE Rashid Al Kous discussed with Sultan Al Ali, Deputy Head of the Trends Dubai sector and Director of the Global Barometer at the Trends Research and Advisory Centre, the results of the study and the prospects of the publishing sector in the United Arab Emirates in light of the Association’s active role.Additionally, as part of the book fair activities, the EPA hosted a workshop presented by Tamer Saeed, Director of the Sharjah International Agency for Literary Rights, which highlighted the Agency’s role in protecting the rights of publishers and authors in translation and publishing, regulating the sale of these rights, and supporting the growth of the Arab publishing market. The workshop also underscored how the EPA contributes to delivering Arab cultural content to diverse cultures worldwide. 

Prior to the launch of the Sharjah International Book Fair, the EPA had organised a meeting on 5 November between the International Publishers Association and the Arab Publishers Association, attended by Karine Pansa, President of the International Publishers Association, and Abdullah Al Kaabi, President of the Emirates Publishers Association. The meeting aimed to discuss Arab publishing issues and strengthen cooperation and exchange of expertise between the two parties to enhance the publishing industry and ensure its sustainability. 

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Al Noor Island among Middle East’s top 10 attractions

This recognition marks the second consecutive year that Al Noor Island has won the ‘Best of the Best’ title…reports Asian Lite News

Sharjah’s renowned landmark and award-winning family-friendly destination, Al Noor Island has secured its place among the top 10 attractions in the Middle East by winning the prestigious ‘Best of the Best’ title for 2024 on the leading travel-review platform TripAdvisor.

Developed and managed by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), the destination has been ranked among Sharjah’s top attractions since its inception, offering a unique blend of nature, art, and entertainment. This recognition marks the second consecutive year that Al Noor Island has won the ‘Best of the Best’ title, an achievement reserved for the top 1% of the 8 million listings on TripAdvisor.

Additionally, the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, situated amidst the region’s most significant natural and archaeological sites, has once again received the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for 2024. This marks the seventh consecutive year that Mleiha has received this award, underscoring its consistency in providing exceptional visitor experiences. Sharjah’s iconic Al Montazah Parks, known for its thrilling water rides, has also won the Traveler’s Choice Awards 2024.

“We humbly accept this honor as a reflection of our unwavering dedication to crafting exceptional experiences,” said Mahmoud Rashid Deemas, the Director of Operations and Tourism Development at Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), expressing his joy over the recognition that the destinations have received. “The positive feedback from travelers, adventure seekers, and family travelers who visit the UAE is a testament to the highest quality of service we provide. It also motivates us to strive for better in the future,” he added.

TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award winners are uniquely chosen by millions of travelers worldwide, who provide their real and unbiased reviews or opinions on destinations, activities, and experiences. ‘Best of the Best’ is the highest honour and the winners are among the top 1% of listings on TripAdvisor.

Al Noor Island, located in the Khaled Lagoon, is an award-winning family-friendly destination where nature, art, and entertainment coexist in perfect harmony, making it a great destination to spend the holidays. Meanwhile, Mleiha Archaeological Centre is home to the region’s most important natural history and archaeological sites. The picturesque destination also offers a range of activities for all types of thrill seekers.

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Sharjah’s Mleiha Exhibition Opens in Japan

Sheikha Bodour also emphasised that Mleiha, and its rich cultural heritage, are an integral part of Arab identity and that this exhibition will showcase the profound impact of Arab civilisation on the world, enhancing it as a source of inspiration for future generations…reports Asian Lite News

Under the patronage of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and in the presence of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), the Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA) inaugurated the ‘Mleiha: An Arabian Kingdom on the Silk Road’ exhibition at the Miho Museum in Japan, which is being held from 6th July to 15th December 2024.

The exhibition is part of the SAA’s efforts to enhance global awareness of Sharjah’s and the UAE’s cultural and civilisational heritage and aims to shed light on the rich history and significant role of Mleiha as a crucial hub on the Silk Road.

The exhibition was inaugurated in the presence of Eisa Yousif, Director General of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA); Professor Isao Kumakura, Director of the Miho Museum; Yukiko Koyama, Head of the Miho Museum Office; Shehab Ahmed Al Fahim, UAE Ambassador to Japan; Dr. Mohammed bin Saeed Al Busaidi, Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to Japan; Hiroki Iwanaga, Mayor of Koka City; Marwan Ahmed Alnaqbi, the Deputy Chief of Mission, and a host of prominent and diplomatic figures in the fields of culture and archaeology. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi expressed Sharjah’s gratitude for this cultural cooperation with Japan and affirmed that the organisation of such events by the SAA strengthens international relations, helping to build cultural bridges between nations while documenting the historical ties that unite us.

Sheikha Bodour also emphasised that Mleiha, and its rich cultural heritage, are an integral part of Arab identity and that this exhibition will showcase the profound impact of Arab civilisation on the world, enhancing it as a source of inspiration for future generations.

Eisa Yousif explained that this exhibition is part of Sharjah’s comprehensive cultural strategy focussing on, investing in, and sustaining culture and knowledge while enhancing national identity by highlighting the cultural heritage of the UAE and the Emirate of Sharjah on the international stage and museums.

He added that the organisation of this global exhibition – part of a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing cultural and archaeological tourism in Sharjah and the UAE – confirms Mleiha’s role in the story of human history. He added that as one of the most significant historical sites in the Arabian Peninsula, Mleiha is a rich source of identity and national pride.

He praised the collaboration with the Miho Museum – a partnership which reflects the strength of cultural relations between the two countries and enhances Sharjah’s vision as a cultural hub that attracts those interested in cultural heritage from all over the world.

The exhibition includes descriptions of more than 160 artifacts, of which 40 pieces are considered national treasures, and 49 pieces representing important cultural properties. Additionally, it features some recent discoveries being displayed for the first time to the Japanese public, illustrating the various aspects of life in the Kingdom of Mleiha.

The exhibition provides a detailed analysis of Mleiha’s central role in global trade, particularly the Silk Road, which connected the East and the West. It demonstrates peaceful coexistence in the region, with the displayed artifacts serving as living testimonies to cultural and commercial exchange.

The exhibition covers several themes including Crossroads of the Orient: Origins of Arabian Culture, The Mleiha Period: Mleiha and Dibba Al-Hisn Sites, Blessings of Nature: Plants and Animals World, Daily Life, and Coinage, in addition to Trade, Cultural Exchange, World of Gods, Religious Beliefs, and Standards of Beauty. On the sidelines of the exhibition inauguration, representatives from the Sharjah Archaeology Authority also undertook a comprehensive tour of the Miho Museum which has exhibits including Ancient Art from Egypt, Mesopotamia, Iran, Afghanistan, China, Japan – a collection of antiquities from some of the most famous museums in the world. Further, they also visited Misono, the headquarters of the Shinji Shumeikai, and the Shumei Natural Agriculture farming (traditional house), in addition to a visit to several UNESCO World Heritage sites including the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), which combines three styles of Japanese architecture.

In 2022 the SAA and Miho Museum collaborated on an exhibition entitled ‘Connecting Civilisations: From Ancient Central Asia to East Asia’ as part of the Authority’s ongoing local and international archaeological exhibitions programme. The exhibition included a collection of rare archaeological discoveries, significantly including copper coins dating back to the early Silk Road period. These artefacts highlight the critical role of key regions in the Arabian Peninsula in establishing firm economic and cultural bridges, commercial activity and knowledge exchange between Asian peoples, the Arabian Peninsula, and Europe, in periods dating back to before the Common Era.

ALSO READ-Sharjah gears up for Mango Festival

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Sharjah gears up for Mango Festival

The festival is designed to support and encourage ongoing agricultural production, a vital pillar of economic and food security. …reports Asian Lite News

The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) has announced that it is all set to organise the 3rd annual Mango Festival 2024 at Expo Khor Fakkan from June 28 to 30, with all necessary preparations in place.

The event, held in collaboration with the Municipal Council of Khorfakkan, aims to bring together agricultural companies, farmers, and productive families to showcase their diverse fruit harvests, including various types of mangoes and citrus fruits.

The festival is designed to support and encourage ongoing agricultural production, a vital pillar of economic and food security. It also seeks to boost commercial and tourism activities in the region.

With broad participation from local farmers, the festival will feature a wide array of mango varieties and host several competitions with valuable prizes. The competitions are divided into three main categories: A mango mazayna (beauty contest), another contest for the most beautiful mango basket open exclusively to women, and the best artwork contest for children.

Mohammad Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), emphasized that the Mango Festival is a significant addition to a series of heritage events and festivals focused on the agricultural sector.

“Organised by the Sharjah Chamber in the eastern and central regions, the festival seeks to provide comprehensive support to farmers and enhance the quality of local agricultural products,” Al Awadi said, adding that the Sharjah Chamber is committed to ensuring the festival’s success, enabling it to play a vital role in preserving the UAE’s cultural heritage and encouraging farmers to care for mango trees.

The organizing committee of the Mango Festival has set specific conditions and requirements for participation in the mango mazayna. Participants must provide locally produced mangoes from the 2024 season, and the mangoes must originate from the participant’s own farm or home garden. At the time of registration, participants are required to present ownership documents for the agricultural land or house.

Each participant is allowed to enter only one variety of mango into the competition. The winning farms and homes will be thoroughly inspected and evaluated by the jury. The mangoes submitted must be free of injuries and visible defects, be of appropriate size, and presented in carton boxes. Additionally, the weight of the mangoes entered in each category of the competition must be 4 kg.

For the “Most Beautiful Basket” competition exclusive to women, the conditions and specifications require that the mangoes be locally produced in 2024. Women aged 18 and older are eligible to participate with one basket only. The mangoes must be presented in a handmade basket, crafted by the participant, and the basket should not exceed 4 kilograms.

Regarding the “Most Beautiful Artwork for Children” competition, participants must be aged between 8 and 12 years old. Entry into this competition requires submission of a copy of the Emirates ID. The artwork must be mango-related and can be a model, painting, or any other form of creative work. Each child is allowed to participate with only one artwork.

The festival, open daily from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., will feature a variety of economic and commercial events and activities. Highlights include performances by folk heritage groups, competitions, and diverse cultural programs. Additionally, the festival will offer a series of educational workshops that provide in-depth insights into agricultural crop care and modern cultivation techniques.

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Sharjah shines in global startup ecosystem rankings

GSER highlights strengths of Sharjah’s startup ecosystem in Cleantech, Digital & Creative Industries, as well as Edtech….reports Asian Lite News

Sharjah’s status as an entrepreneurial haven has been reaffirmed after the 2024 Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER) revealed the emirate being 4th in the GCC, and 7th in the MENA region’s startup ecosystem rankings.

The Startup Genome and Global Entrepreneurship Network standings, announced at London Tech Week, put Sharjah two spots higher than in 2023 due to the emirate’s growing influence and competitiveness in the international startup scene.

Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sheraa, Sharjah’s flagship start-up incubator, said, ‘Ranking 4th in the GCC region and 7th in the MENA startup ecosystem shows that Sharjah’s strategic focus on entrepreneurialism is working — and it’s getting noticed. Our startup ecosystem is investor- and business-friendly, committed to nurturing innovation, and it’s a dynamic global hub where forward-thinking minds converge. We’re on the right track, and this step forward strengthens our resolve to empower entrepreneurs in Sharjah and drive sustainable economic development in the region and beyond.”

The report highlights the strengths of Sharjah’s startup ecosystem in specific sectors, including Cleantech, Digital & Creative Industries, as well as Edtech, which have shown a high density of talent, support resources, and startup activity.

Sharjah’s strong performance is further evidenced by its rankings in various categories including #5 in ‘Bang for Buck’, indicating the amount of runway tech startups acquire, on average, from a VC round; #6 in Funding, measuring innovation through early-stage funding and investor activity; and #7 in Market Reach, tracking global leading companies, local market reach, and global connectedness.

Sharjah also features in the Top 15 rankings for both the Knowledge and Performance categories. The Knowledge category assesses innovation through research and patent activity, while the Performance category evaluates the size and success of an ecosystem based on the tech startup value generated from exits and funding.

Sharjah’s success is attributed to factors such as the emirate’s strategic location, the incredible $1.5 billion annual investment in education, its six Free Zones and 33 industrial zones, as well as the Sharjah Investors Services Centre (SAEED), which helps investors and entrepreneurs set up their business in the emirate.

Commenting on the announcement, Sheraa’s Vice Chairperson, Najla Al Midfa said, “Sharjah’s rise to the 4th in the GCC and 7th best ecosystem in MENA reflects our unwavering commitment to harnessing the transformative power of entrepreneurship. By nurturing homegrown talent and ventures, and partnering with stakeholders across the ecosystem, we have cultivated a founder-focused environment where innovative early-stage ventures thrive with access to essential talent, capital, and markets. As we look ahead, we are excited to scale our impact by further enhancing our startup’s offerings and driving growth in key sectors such as sustainability, edtech, advanced manufacturing, and the creative industries.”

The GSER, a comprehensive analysis drawing data from over 4.5 million companies across 300+ entrepreneurial innovation ecosystems globally, provides a detailed evaluation of the top startup hubs worldwide and regionally. Sharjah’s rise to the 7th position, two places above their standings in 2023, underscores the emirate’s dedication to nurturing a competitive and progressive startup ecosystem, as well as Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre’s (Sheraa) contributions to this success.

Having completed an incredible 8-year journey, Sheraa’s ecosystem today boasts a thriving community of over 500 founders and over 18,000 entrepreneurial youth. Sheraa’s inclusive entrepreneurial journey, which offers talent and capability building, world-class mentoring, start-up incubation and wide-ranging market access, has empowered over 180 startups who have an impressive 71 percent survival rate and have created over 1,900 jobs. These Sheraa-supported start-ups have raised over $171MM in capital and generated $248MM in revenue.

Moreover, Sheraa’s flagship event, the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF), is one of the region’s leading celebrations of entrepreneurial passion and ingenuity and has drawn 30,000+ global attendees since 2017.

In collating the data, Sheraa provided invaluable support, collaborating closely with Startup Genome to spotlight the emirate’s entrepreneurial ecosystem in the anticipated report. This strategic partnership proved to be instrumental in showcasing Sharjah’s strengths and positioning it on the global map as a premier destination for talent, startups, and investors alike.

With its impressive ranking, rapidly growing Ecosystem Value, and sectoral strengths, Sharjah has firmly established itself as a rising star in the MENA startup scene. This achievement sets the stage for continued success and innovation, as the emirate solidifies its reputation as a regional hub for entrepreneurial excellence, with Sheraa playing a noteworthy role in this trajectory.

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Expo Centre Sharjah partners with MIE to launch Middle East EV show

The exhibition will feature components and systems of electric vehicles such as motors, electronic control units, and battery management systems…reports Asian Lite News

Expo Centre Sharjah (ECS) has signed a partnership agreement with MIE Events to launch the Middle East Electric Vehicle Show (MEEVS) in 2025 at the Centre.

The agreement sets the stage for the largest event in the electric vehicle industry, with participation from over 100 global brands. This major event aims to highlight the future of sustainable transportation, showcasing the latest models in electric, hydrogen, and hybrid vehicles and electric bikes, alongside cutting-edge solutions and technologies in the electric transport sector.

The signing ceremony took place at the Centre’s headquarters and was attended by Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, and David Wang, Chairman and CEO of MIE Events, along with several officials from both parties.

Under the agreement, both parties will work towards the success of the exhibition, introducing the regional audience to the latest innovations in the world of electric vehicles (EVs) from various brands and manufacturers.

The exhibition will feature components and systems of electric vehicles such as motors, electronic control units, and battery management systems, with participation from providers of charging services and integrated renewable energy solutions, highlighting developments in the EV industry in general.

Saif Mohammed Al Midfa noted that the partnership agreement to organise an electric vehicle exhibition at Expo Sharjah is a strategic move to keep pace with global shifts in sustainable technology and its new industrial applications in transportation.

It aims to bolster the presence of electric vehicle manufacturers in the UAE markets and accelerate the pace of EV adoption, thereby helping to reduce the transportation sector’s carbon footprint. This supports the “UAE Net Zero by 2050” strategic initiative and the circular economy, while also enhancing economic development.

The EV sector represents a promising future for global industry. Adding this sector to Expo Sharjah’s lineup of events underscores the Centre’s commitment to organising more specialised exhibitions that bring the latest developments and technologies to the public in the UAE and the region.

Al Midfa expressed hope that MEEVS 2025 would serve as an important platform for EV manufacturers, suppliers, investors, and experts to discuss and showcase the latest innovations in this field, providing an opportunity to exchange experiences and insights and build strategic partnerships that drive progress in the region’s EV sector.

For his part, David Wang stated that the partnership between MIE Events and Expo Sharjah to organise the electric vehicle exhibition is a pivotal step towards promoting sustainable technology and presenting the latest innovations in the EV sector.

He praised the Centre’s commitment to providing a platform that brings together EV manufacturers, suppliers, investors, and experts to discuss and showcase the latest developments in this vital field.

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SCCI holds Sharjah-India biz forum in Chennai

The event underscores the SCCI’s commitment to enhancing the presence of Emirati businesses and enterprises in the Indian market…reports Asian Lite News

The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) embarked on the first leg of its trade mission to India as it organised the Sharjah-India Business Forum in the city of Chennai.

The forum’s agenda featured more than 160 bilateral business meetings representatives of companies participating in the trade mission and more than 100 Indian companies in Chennai, representing various sectors and economic activities.

The event underscores the SCCI’s commitment to enhancing the presence of Emirati businesses and enterprises in the Indian market, opening new export channels for them, and facilitating seamless communication for its members with key stakeholders in India across various sectors. The Chamber also seeks to showcase the promising investment opportunities available in Sharjah across all sectors.

The forum was attended by HE Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the SCCI, HE Waleed Abdul Rahman Bukhatir, Second Vice Chairman of the SCCI Board of Directors, and HE Ziyad Mohmoud Khairalla, Board Member Honorary Treasure at SCCI.

Also present were Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Business Sector at SCCI; Jamal Saeed Buzangal, Director of the Media Department at SCCI; Marwan Salem Al Muhairi, Head of Exhibitions at the Sharjah Exports Development Centre (SEDC) affiliated with Sharjah Chamber, and Sultan Abdullah Al Ali, Head of the Investor Services Department at SCCI, as well as Lalu Samuel, Chairman of the Indian Business and Professional Council in Sharjah, in addition to several CEOs and officials of industrial, production, and export companies in the emirate.

During the forum, the Sharjah Chamber’s delegation discussed coordinating efforts with trade and industrial chambers and investment authorities in Chennai; with the aim to attract more Indian businessmen to invest in the emirate and facilitate global expansion for Sharjah-based businesses, opening new and promising markets for SCCI members.

In his opening speech at the forum, Abdullah Sultan Al Owais highlighted the robust and deep-rooted ties between the UAE and India. These ties have tremendous potential and serve as a leading model in rapidly growing and prospering international economic relations.

The bilateral trade between the two countries is projected to reach US$ 250 billion by 2030. The UAE is also India’s seventh largest investor, with investments totaling around US$ 18 billion in 2023.

Al Owais affirmed that the Sharjah-India Business Forum is a testament to Sharjah Chamber’s commitment to strengthening cooperation and collaborative business prospects among businessmen and investors from both countries, particularly in Sharjah and Chennai.

He elucidated that the Sharjah Chamber looks forward to enhancing investments, fostering partnerships, and strengthening the robust economic ties between the UAE and India.

He pointed out the remarkable growth in bilateral non-oil trade between the two nations, which soared to $50.5 from May 2022 to April 2023, marking a significant 5.8 percent increase from the previous year.

The bilateral meetings between the SCCI businessmen and their counterparts featured a variety of discussions focusing on avenues for cooperation and investment partnerships. During these meetings, Emirati companies showcased their products and services, which were well-received by the Indian side, bolstering the potential for possible business deals between the two sides.

As part of the SCCI’s trade mission, a comprehensive business meeting was convened with representatives of “Madras Electrical Traders Association Chennai”, which comprises companies engaged in the electricity trade sector.

The meeting was attended by HE Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, HE Waleed Abdul Rahman Bukhatir, HE Ziyad Mohmoud Khairalla, and Jamal Saeed Buzangal. Representing the Indian side, HE Hkumichand Shah, President of the Madras Electrical Traders Association Chennai, and Ramraj Bhandari, Vice President of the Association, along with several members of the Association were present.

Both sides discussed ways to enhance cooperation and coordination between the Sharjah Chamber and the Association, besides boosting communication mechanisms and the exchange of information regarding investment opportunities available in both countries in the fields of energy and electrical industries.

The SCCI’s trade mission also held a business meeting with “Guidance Tamil Nadu”, the investment promotion agency of the Government of Tamil Nadu in India. The gathering explored ways to bolster economic and investment cooperation between the two nations.

During the meeting, which was attended by several officials from both sides, HE Abdullah Sultan Al Owais showcased to Sarin Paraparakath, Senior Vice President of the Guidance Tamil Nadu, the facilitations and distinctive investment opportunities available to Indian companies operating in Sharjah.

Al Owais also underscored the significance of such periodic meetings in facilitating communication among investors and business leaders in both Sharjah and India.

Scheduled to be extended until May 10th, the SCCI’s trade mission to India will be heading to their second leg in Mumbai, where a business forum will be organised bringing together mission’s members with officials and leaders from commercial and industrial chambers.

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Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2024 records AED 400 mn in sales

The 37-day event delivered enthralling shopping experiences to Sharjah’s residents and visitors…reports Asian Lite News

The Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2024, which concluded its 34th edition last night, Saturday, recorded major success in revitalising the retail sector and commercial activity across the emirate’s markets.

The 37-day event delivered enthralling shopping experiences to Sharjah’s residents and visitors, encompassing a wide range of malls, commercial centres, and entertainment destinations across various cities and regions in the emirate.

The festival’s offers, promotions, and substantial discounts were complemented by a series of entertainment programmes and activities, spreading festive cheer and fun-filled ambience throughout the holy month of Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr.

Organised by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), this year’s festival exceeded sales volume expectations, generating approximately AED 400 million and achieving a growth rate of 25 percent.

The Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2024 successfully drew visitors and families from within and outside the emirate, offering them massive discounts, that go up to 75 percent off, across a wide variety of products and merchandise presented by exhibitors, including both local and international brands.

The festival witnessed during Eid Al Fitr a strong momentum and a huge influx of visitors, who flocked to the major shopping centres and various participating destinations and were lured by the diverse entertainment programmes and festive shopping experiences.

Attendees eagerly engaged in raffle draws held throughout the festival’s pavilions, where they won valuable prizes and shopping vouchers, worth up to AED 1 million, presented by the Sharjah Chamber in collaboration with the participating shopping centres.

Furthermore, an extensive range of lucrative offers was showcased within the festival, encompassing destinations, hotels, and distinguished tourist attractions.

Mohammad Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of SCCI, emphasised the Chamber’s commitment to helping the Sharjah Ramadan Festival achieve tremendous success. This success has further cemented the festival’s leading position as one of the foremost commercial and entertainment events in the region.

He underscored the SCCI’s sponsorship of shopping promotions as part of its strategy to stimulate and diversify the emirate’s economy, promote innovative branding practices, and bolster support for local businesses and entrepreneurs.

For his part, Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Business Sector at SCCI, noted that the robust visitor turnout and the satisfaction expressed by participating centers and retail outlets across the emirate indicate the tangible outcomes manifested in the record-breaking sales achieved by the festival. This achievement serves as a catalyst for the chamber’s intensified efforts to uphold the event’s stature and enrich its capacity and allure to attract Sharjah’s visitors and residents.

Meanwhile, Ibrahim Rashid Al Jarwan, Director of Economic Relations and Marketing at SCCI, and General Coordinator of the Festival, attributed the festival’s tremendous success to the collaborative efforts and partnerships with strategic partners, major sponsors, governmental entities, and the private sector.

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Sharjah Airport shares Eid joy with passengers

The Airport employees welcomed passengers, while offering sweets and hospitality…reports Asian Lite News

Sharjah Airport shared the joy of Eid Al Fitr with passengers, celebrating the end of the holy month of Ramadan, in an atmosphere filled with happiness and joy, fitting the aestheticsof Eid and its religious and social meanings.

The Airport employees welcomed passengers, while offering sweets and hospitality. This initiative, which Sharjah Airport regularly implements, is part of its institutional values to enhance social communication with passengers and add unforgettable value to their occasions and holidays of all kinds, contributing to their preparation for spending unique times and special moments with their families and friends throughout the Eid days in the emirate of Sharjah.

Passengers expressed their happiness with this warm gesture from Sharjah Airport and shared their keenness to make Sharjah Airport their first choice for trips to and from the UAE, due to the leading service system it dedicates to passengers and customers while caring for their comfort and safety.

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‘Saba Sanabel’ flour boasting the highest protein content

saba sanabel cultivation

Saba Sanabel flour is grown using a chemical-free process and is fertilised only with natural manure, it has earned five quality and safety accreditation certifications…. reports Asian Lite News

The Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock (SDAL) has announced that the wheat farm located in Mleiha yields “Saba Sanabel” flour boasting the highest protein content globally, exceeding 19 percent.

The success of Sharjah wheat is credited to the initiatives and supervision of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, according to Dr. Engineer Khalifa Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock.

“Saba Sanabel” is now considered the best type on the planet thanks to its exceptionally high protein content and lack of any fertilisers, pesticides, or other potentially dangerous compounds.

Al Tunaiji attributed the high percentage of Sharjah wheat “Saba Sanabel” produced at the Mleiha wheat farm to the organic farming system. This system helps improve the fertility and content of the soil, which in turn ensures that the wheat grains are of higher quality and type.

He also stressed the need to use desalinated water for irrigation, which is free of contaminants. This results in an increase in grain production and protein content because water speeds up the transfer of dry matter from stems and leaves to grains, a key component in plant development.

Since SDAL’s “Saba Sanabel” flour is grown using a chemical-free process and is fertilised only with natural manure, it has earned five quality and safety accreditation certifications.

Thus, Sharjah wheat is free of toxins and chemical components that could change its nature as a food ingredient or make it more productive. It meets the quality and safety criteria applicable in the UAE, which boosts customer trust and helps it compete in the markets. As a result, it is the first national product to get the “Made in the UAE” logo.

ALSO READ : Sharjah explores trade, investment ties with India