300 global leaders, 60+ activities to redefine innovation in Sharjah

The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) is gearing up to make an impressive return,  hosting over 300 of the world’s most notable industry leaders and innovators and more than 150 outstanding startups, promising an exhilarating lineup of over 60 activities including workshops, masterclasses, interactive sessions, live classes, and artist showcases — all aimed at platforming innovative ideas, diverse perspectives, and game-changing strategies.

These diverse and inspiring activities will encompass impactful storytelling, hands-on learning, and unmatched opportunities to network and connect with the thought leaders who are shaping the local, regional, and global entrepreneurial ecosystems.

Organised by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), SEF 2025 will be  its most dynamic and expansive edition, welcoming the global entrepreneurial ecosystem to Sharjah from February 1-2, 2025, under the theme “Where We Belong.”

Commenting on the festival’s transformation, Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, said, “SEF 2025 is about creating a home for dreamers and doers - a place where ideas spark into reality and entrepreneurs find the support they need to shape the future. This year’s expansion reflects our belief that the entrepreneurial spirit thrives in a space that celebrates diversity, fosters collaboration, and champions bold ideas. Sharjah has long embraced innovation as a tool for progress, and through this festival, we’re bringing together minds and talents from around the world to redefine what’s possible.”

Specially curated zones to help you find your entrepreneurial tribe

Within 10 specially curated zones including the “Impact Zone”, “Creative Zone”, “Startup Town”, and 5 impressive stages, SEF 2025 is growing in scale and influence, reinforcing itself as the largest entrepreneurial gathering in the region.

The number of speakers has also doubled compared to previous editions, reflecting Sheraa’s ongoing commitment to delivering diverse and impactful insights from leading voices in entrepreneurship, technology, creativity, sustainability, and social innovation.

This next edition of SEF will also see the introduction of several new zones, including “Made in Sharjah,” “Sustainability & Wellness,” “SEF Academy,” “SEF Eats,” and “Artist’s Alley” — all designed to offer specialised spaces for attendees to connect, collaborate, and thrive.

“The SOUQ” zone will feature 24 local brands, offering a compelling marketplace atmosphere that celebrates local products and F&B brands, allowing visitors to connect with homegrown businesses and artisans. The “International Pavilions” zone provides an opportunity to network with international thought-leaders and gain insights into successful entrepreneurship ecosystems from around the world.

Additionally, the anticipated return of the “Investor Lounge” will provide an exclusive space for entrepreneurs to connect with 100 potential investors, offering unique and exclusive networking opportunities and facilitating meaningful conversations that could lead to future funding and strategic partnerships.

This highly curated two-day festival is geared towards inspiring and upskilling aspiring entrepreneurs, creating meaningful networking opportunities, showcasing local and global talent, and empowering startups with actionable insights.

SEF 2025 is set to elevate the entrepreneurial spirit across multiple industries, and provide an environment where pioneering ideas are formed, nurtured and celebrated.

Organised by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), the two-day event will feature keynote speeches, workshops, and various activities across 10 themed zones and five stages.

Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2025 will return with its theme, “Where We Belong,” offering a platform for collaboration and showcasing innovative solutions.

Najla Al Midfa, Vice Chairperson of Sheraa, highlighted the event’s role in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, saying, “Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival brings together a global community to reimagine possibilities and drive sustainable growth, reinforcing Sharjah’s position as a hub for entrepreneurship.”

Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, Sheraa’s CEO, emphasised the festival’s impact, stating, “Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival creates opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect and collaborate, offering resources and insights to help them innovate and thrive.”

The festival zones include spaces for creative industries, start-ups, sustainability, wellness, local talent, and international pavilions.

Other highlights include SEF Academy workshops, a local products market, and networking opportunities with investors and industry leaders.

Since its launch, Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival has welcomed over 30,000 attendees, hosted more than 780 speakers, and featured over 370 start-ups.