Sheikh Sultan establishes and regulates Sharjah Fashion Lab

His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and the Ruler of Sharjah, has officially issued an Emiri Decree to establish and regulate the Sharjah Fashion Lab.

A new center named the “Sharjah Fashion Lab” is set to be established in Sharjah, as outlined in the decree. This center will possess a legal identity and the necessary authority to carry out required legal actions to achieve its objectives and fulfill its functions. It will enjoy financial and administrative independence while being aligned with the Sharjah Creative Quarter.

 As per the decree, the laboratory will be named “Sharjah Fashion Lab,” with the abbreviation “SFL.” Its primary headquarters will be located in the Sharjah Creative Quarter within University City in Sharjah. Additionally, branches may be set up in other cities and regions throughout the emirate, as determined by a decision from the ruler.

 The decree outlined the lab's objectives as follows:

1. To create a platform that empowers local designers in the emirate, throughout the UAE, and across the Gulf region, facilitating their access to global markets.

2. To equip local designers with the tools needed to meet international manufacturing standards by providing access to specialized services, cutting-edge machinery, and innovative technology.

3. To foster the growth of the UAE fashion industry by offering consulting services, assisting in model development, and supporting production processes that adhere to global industry standards.

4. To deliver top-notch expertise in the areas of fashion model development.

According to the decree, the laboratory will pursue the following specializations to achieve its objectives:

1. Develop fashion models and designs that align with global industry standards.

2. Prepare specialized digital patterns and create 3D virtual representations of fashion designs.

3. Produce small-scale fashion prototypes, limited to a maximum of 30 units.

4. Offer consulting services related to production and market entry strategies for local and global markets.

5. Design programs tailored for local fashion manufacturers and designers.

6. Provide opportunities for education and professional development within the fashion sector.

7. Engage in commercial activities and participate in local and international markets to showcase designs.

8. Enter into contracts and agreements with local factories and relevant entities, contingent upon approval by the President.

9. Collaborate with the appropriate authorities in the emirate to obtain technical and administrative support needed to fulfill its duties.

10. Undertake any additional specializations assigned by the President of the Sharjah Creative Quarter.

The decree outlined that the lab would be overseen by a director, who would be appointed through a decision made by the head of the Sharjah Creative Quarter. This director will report directly to the head and will have the support of a sufficient number of staff. The decision will clarify the specific responsibilities and powers of the director.

Additionally, the decree included various legal provisions concerning financial resources, fee exemptions, executive decisions, as well as matters related to enforcement and publication.