The Sharjah Investment Forum 2024 (SIF) has successfully concluded two days of knowledge-packed sessions, workshops, and opportune networking between stakeholders across multiple industries, leaving a lasting impression on the global investment community. With an impressive turnout of over 5,000 attendees, including high-profile government officials, visionary entrepreneurs, and industry pioneers, the forum transformed the Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre into a bustling hub of discussion and collaboration.

Under the compelling theme “A Futuristic Vision for Smart Economies,” SIF 2024 effectively showcased Sharjah’s strategic position as a prime opportunity for foreign direct investment while igniting discussions on harnessing cutting-edge technologies to drive sustainable economic growth in an ever-evolving world.

Sharjah reveals world’s first AI-powered trade licence service During the forum a major announcement was made regarding the future of business, through the unveiling of the world’s first AI-powered trade licence service, marking a significant milestone in the global entrepreneurial realm. This pioneering initiative — developed in collaboration with the Sharjah FDI Office, Microsoft, and Sharjah Publishing City — empowers entrepreneurs and investors to complete the entire licensing process in under five minutes, redefining the concept of speed and efficiency. By leveraging cutting-edge AI technology, the system accelerates business establishment and enhances flexibility across diverse sectors, positioning Sharjah as a leader in foreign direct investment (FDI) and innovation.

A gathering of global leaders The event was graced by a diverse array of participants, including government leaders, business moguls, and industry experts.

Notable attendees included Abdullah Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy; Khalifa Musbah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Agriculture and Livestock; and Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), among other policy-makers and officials.

Prominent global figures from various sectors included Grant Cardone, a decorated private equity fund manager and real estate investor, who inspired principles of growth through his 10X Rule; Chris Do, founder of The Futur, who enthralled attendees with valuable insights on branding strategies; Vusi Thembekwayo, CEO of MyGrowthFund Venture Partners, known for his dynamic approach to entrepreneurship and investment; and Aman Gupta, co-founder of boAt Lifestyle, who shared his journey of transforming a small startup into one of India’s leading consumer electronics brands.

Sharing knowledge and forging connections Over the two-day forum, more than 80 main and side activities were held, featuring insightful panel discussions, inspiring keynote speeches, and interactive workshops. Topics ranged from the transformative power of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, to brand strategies, best business practices and investment trajectories. These knowledge-packed activities aimed to inspire and divulge actionable strategies to enhance success in a rapidly evolving market.

Another one of the forum’s highlights was the Investors’ Lounge, which provided an exclusive platform for networking among local and international investors, facilitating meaningful dialogues between decision-makers and opportunities to forge strategic partnerships between stakeholders.

SIF 2024 has successfully set the stage for future collaborations aimed at driving economic diversification and innovation in Sharjah and beyond. With its focus on smart economies, the forum has cemented itself as a prominent event in the Mena region’s investment calendar, paving the way for continued growth and prosperity in the years to come.

AI-powered trade licences: Following the launch of the world’s first AI-powered trade licence by Sharjah yesterday, Grant Cardone, renowned Private Equity Fund Manager, visionary Business Strategist, and Founder & CEO of Cardone Capital, and Vusi Thembekwayo, Group CEO of MyGrowthFund Venture Partners, were first have business licences issued in under five minutes.

The AI-powered licence is a world first; a collaborative initiative by the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), Microsoft and Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) Free Zone. The initiative was launched yesterday on the prestigious platform of the Sharjah Investment Forum (SIF) 2024, which concludes today (Thursday).

Cardone, who led several inspiring discussions at SIF 2024, said: “This pioneering initiative positions Sharjah as a model for cities and countries worldwide, showcasing the vast potential of smart technologies. It highlights how the infrastructure of a smart economy can streamline and simplify the regulatory aspects of business management. With Sharjah’s abundant investment appeal, passion for innovation and exceptional services, this is a great addition that enhances its business appeal. Business owners, investors and entrepreneurs today are actively seeking environments that offer ease of access via seamless integration with emerging technologies, and this initiative is a big step forward in the direction.”

WAM