Sharjah, UAE – The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) is set to elevate its status as a global hub for innovation by unveiling three groundbreaking zones at its 2025 edition. The festival, organized by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), will take place on February 1-2, 2025, at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park under the theme “Where We Belong.”
Designed to cater to the evolving needs of entrepreneurs, these zones aim to blend personal well-being with professional development, fostering a holistic entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The Three New Zones
- Made in Sharjah Zone
Powered by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Bank of Sharjah, and the Sharjah Business Women’s Council (SWBC), this zone highlights Sharjah’s entrepreneurial talent. Featuring over 50 startups and prominent speakers like Chef Meera, founder of Heeb, gaming entrepreneur Hamad Al Shamsi, and YouTuber Mohammed Al Kaabi, the zone offers networking opportunities, workshops, and retail pods.Sheikha Hind bint Majid Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SWBC, remarked, “The Made in Sharjah Zone celebrates the achievements of Sharjah’s entrepreneurs, particularly women, fostering a thriving ecosystem for creativity and collaboration.”
- SEF Academy
This educational hub focuses on skill development through free workshops and masterclasses. It is designed for both emerging and experienced entrepreneurs, offering hands-on learning experiences tailored to modern business challenges. - SEF Vault
Supported by Emirates General Petroleum Corporation (Emarat), the SEF Vault provides an exclusive networking lounge and leadership suite for VIPs and speakers, fostering high-level collaboration and strategic discussions.Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, CEO of Emarat, emphasized, “Our commitment lies in nurturing talent and creating spaces for visionary minds to connect and innovate.”SEF 2025 reflects Sheraa’s vision to strengthen Sharjah’s entrepreneurial landscape. Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, noted, “These new zones aim to foster meaningful interactions and drive sustainable growth within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.”Mohamed Khadiri, CEO of Bank of Sharjah, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the bank’s dedication to promoting innovation and sustainable development.
With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and community, SEF 2025 promises to be a transformative event for entrepreneurs across diverse industries. As the festival gears up to welcome participants under its new theme, it solidifies Sharjah’s position as a leading hub for entrepreneurial excellence.
