Shurooq Leading Sharjah’s Visionary Development

Shurooq, the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority, has become a cornerstone of Sharjah’s economic growth and development.

Under the dynamic leadership of its CEO, Shurooq has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing the emirate’s appeal as a premier investment destination.

Established with a vision to diversify and modernize Sharjah’s economy, Shurooq has played a critical role in transforming the emirate into a hub of cultural, economic, and environmental excellence.

Shurooq Visionary Leadership & The CEO

Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer,

Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer graduated from Dubai Men’s College with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Information Technology. 

Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, with a distinguished career in business development and operations, currently serves as a Chief Executive Officer of Shurooq.

And with several of the authority’s departmental directors, has been instrumental in steering the organization towards achieving its ambitious goals.

With a deep understanding of global market trends and a commitment to sustainable development, Shurooq has positioned the authority as a key player in the region’s economic landscape.

The Establishment of Shurooq

Shurooq is the driving force behind the transformation of Sharjah.

Located in: Al Qasba

Sharjah Investment and Development Authority, also known as Shurooq, was established as per the Emiri Decree no.2 of 2009 that was issued by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council Ruler of Sharjah, for which it shall perform the following tasks:

– Implement Infrastructure projects in the various investment, tourist and heritage areas and set the necessary programs for their completion.

– Remove the obstacles facing the investment activity and provide all possible facilities and incentives for investors.

The authority was created to attract investment, promote tourism, and support sustainable development across various sectors, including real estate, hospitality, and culture.

Shurooq’s Impact on Sharjah

Shurooq’s commitment to building thriving communities is evident in its projects like Maryam Island and Ajwan (Nestled on the East Coast in Khorfakkan, Ajwan Residences envisions a thriving community complete with hospitality, retail, residential and entertainment), which offer residents a range of services, amenities, and high-quality living spaces.

Looking towards the future, Al Qaseer highlighted Shurooq’s focus on establishing sustainable and smart cities. The Sharjah Sustainable City exemplifies this commitment, showcasing the implementation of innovative systems for a greener future.

Recognizing the interconnected nature of industries, Shurooq’s strategy emphasizes the critical role of collaboration between real estate development, hospitality, tourism, entertainment, commerce, and cultural sectors. This integration aims to provide residents with diverse opportunities for social interaction, learning, leisure activities, and shopping, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.

” Shurooq’s integrated development strategy positions the organization as a leader in creating sustainable and vibrant communities for Sharjah. “

Economic Diversification

• Real Estate Development: Shurooq has been at the forefront of developing iconic real estate projects that blend modernity with tradition.
• Tourism Promotion: Initiatives like the Heart of Sharjah, a restoration project aimed at preserving the emirate’s heritage, have significantly boosted tourism.
• Investment Attraction: Through strategic partnerships and investor-friendly policies, Shurooq has attracted substantial foreign direct investment (FDI).

Cultural and Environmental Initiatives

Shurooq has launched several projects to preserve and promote Sharjah’s rich cultural heritage. The Heart of Sharjah project, for instance, aims to revitalize the historical district into a vibrant cultural hub.

Sustainability is a core principle of Shurooq’s operations. The authority has initiated several eco-friendly projects, such as the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, which promotes sustainable tourism while preserving the natural and archaeological heritage of the area.

Key Projects by Shurooq

Shurooq CEO Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer emphasized the organization’s commitment to the Emirate’s competitiveness and its dedication to generating social returns alongside economic growth.

“Shurooq’s development vision is rooted in its deep connection to Sharjah,” stated Al Qaseer.

“We believe in fostering synergies between various sectors to achieve comprehensive success.”

Key Projects by Shurooq:

Maryam Island:

This flagship project represents a AED 4.5 billion (US$ 1.2 billion) mixed-use development situated between Al Khan Lagoon and Al Mamzar in Downtown Sharjah. This waterfront masterpiece will offer residents a luxurious living experience with:

• 18 Exquisite Residential Buildings: Comprising over 3,500 units upon completion, Maryam Island caters to a variety of residential needs.
• Nature-Inspired Waterfront Promenade: Residents can enjoy stunning views and a connection to nature with this beautifully designed walkway.
• World-Class Amenities: Rejuvenating fitness centers, serene swimming pools, safe children’s play areas, and indoor gardens create a vibrant and family-friendly atmosphere.
• Retail Outlets and Hotels: Integrated retail and hospitality options provide convenience and a complete lifestyle experience for residents.

Sharjah Sustainable City: A pioneering project showcasing Shurooq’s dedication to sustainability.

Sharjah Sustainable City Project is spread over 7.2 million sq. ft., featuring Phase 1 and Phase 2 with around 1,120 villas.

 The residential development has partnered with a German-based Company – Hager Group, to deploy the energy storage system throughout the neighborhood. 

Sharjah Sustainable City is a landmark project aimed at creating a self-sustaining community.

The city is designed to minimize its environmental impact while providing its residents with a high quality of life.

This smart city utilizes innovative systems to create a more eco-friendly living environment.

Hospitality Ventures:

Shurooq is actively involved in developing the hospitality sector in Sharjah. Examples include:

• The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah: A luxurious 53-key heritage property located in the heart of Sharjah.
• LUX Al Bridi Resort:* An upcoming wildlife sanctuary resort occupying a vast area within the Sharjah Safari project, offering a unique experience surrounded by nature.
• New Developments: Shurooq recently unveiled plans for The Nomad (luxurious trailers in Kalba), Mysk Moon Retreat (expanded eco-tourism offerings), and the upcoming Khorfakkan Adventure project, all designed to cater to diverse tourism preferences.

This expanded section provides a more detailed look at Shurooq’s key projects, showcasing their commitment to diverse sectors and highlighting specific examples within each category.

Beyond these core projects, Shurooq plays a leading role in developing Sharjah’s cultural and tourism landscape through several key initiatives:

• Heart of Sharjah: This ambitious project aims to revitalize the historical center of Sharjah, preserving its rich heritage for future generations. Shurooq is meticulously restoring old buildings, including traditional souqs and merchant houses, while constructing new structures that reflect the Emirate’s architectural heritage. The Heart of Sharjah is not just a restoration project; it’s a vibrant cultural destination featuring museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks. This initiative has significantly boosted cultural tourism in Sharjah, attracting visitors eager to experience the Emirate’s unique cultural identity.
• Al Qasba: Shurooq transformed Sharjah’s waterfront with the creation of Al Qasba, a premier leisure and entertainment destination. This waterfront development offers a variety of attractions for residents and tourists alike, including a bustling array of restaurants and cafes, exciting entertainment options, and the iconic Eye of the Emirates Wheel, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Al Qasba serves as a vibrant hub for social interaction and family entertainment, solidifying Sharjah’s position as a dynamic and attractive city.
• Mleiha Archaeological Centre: Situated in Sharjah’s inland region, the Mleiha Archaeological Centre is a testament to Shurooq’s commitment to promoting eco-tourism and archaeological exploration. The center offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into Sharjah’s ancient past, showcasing unearthed artifacts and historical sites. Mleiha’s natural landscape is also a major draw, with hiking trails and fossil discoveries attracting visitors interested in exploring the Emirate’s diverse ecology. The Mleiha Archaeological Centre fosters a deeper understanding of Sharjah’s rich history and its beautiful natural environment.
• Kalba Eco-Tourism Project: Shurooq is at the forefront of developing sustainable tourism initiatives in Sharjah’s Eastern Region with the Kalba Eco-Tourism Project. This project prioritizes the conservation of Kalba’s pristine natural habitats, including mangroves and coral reefs. Shurooq promotes sustainable tourism practices throughout the area, encouraging visitors to appreciate and protect Kalba’s unique ecological environment. The Kalba Eco-Tourism Project positions Sharjah as a leader in responsible tourism, ensuring the beauty of the region is preserved for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the CEO of Shurooq?

Shurooq is the CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority, leading the organization with a focus on sustainable development and economic diversification.

When was Shurooq established?

Shurooq was established in 2009 with the aim of diversifying Sharjah’s economy and promoting investment, tourism, and sustainable development.

What are some key projects of Shurooq?

Key projects include the Heart of Sharjah, Al Qasba, Mleiha Archaeological Centre, and the Kalba Eco-Tourism Project, each contributing to cultural preservation, tourism, and sustainable development.

How does Shurooq promote sustainability?

Shurooq promotes sustainability through eco-friendly projects like the Mleiha Archaeological Centre and the Kalba Eco-Tourism Project, focusing on environmental conservation and sustainable tourism.

Under the visionary leadership of its CEO, Shurooq, the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority has significantly contributed to the emirate’s economic diversification and sustainable development.

Since its establishment in 2009, Shurooq has been a driving force behind Sharjah’s transformation into a dynamic and attractive investment destination.

Through innovative projects and strategic initiatives, Shurooq continues to shape the future of Sharjah, ensuring its growth and prosperity for years to come.