Sharjah Investment Forum 2025 Opens with WAIPA World Investment Conference

SHARJAH, UAE – October 20, 2025: The 8th edition of the Sharjah Investment Forum (SIF 2025) kicks off tomorrow, Wednesday, October 22, at the Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre, marking the first time it is held in conjunction with the WAIPA World Investment Conference (WIC 2025).

Organised by the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) in partnership with the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) and the UAE Ministry of Investment, this landmark joint event runs under the theme “Transforming Our World: Investing for a Resilient and Sustainable Future.”

Together, the two global platforms are set to welcome more than 10,000 participants from 142 countries and 130 high-profile speakers, including government ministers, economic leaders, and senior policymakers, reaffirming Sharjah’s role as an emerging hub for global economic dialogue and sustainable investment.

Global Leaders Gather in Sharjah

The forum will feature an impressive lineup of international figures, including Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah; Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment; Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan; Miguel Medina, Minister of Investment Promotion of Honduras; and Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh, Minister of Investment of Pakistan.

Also joining are Osama Fadhel, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Industrial Accelerators Sector at MoIAT; Dr. James Zhan, Chairman of the WIC Executive Board; and Professor Raekwon Chung, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and board member of the Ban Ki-moon Foundation.

Their participation underscores the growing influence of SIF as a strategic platform for shaping sustainable and inclusive investment policies across the MENA region and beyond.

A Comprehensive Agenda for a Changing Global Economy

This year’s programme includes over 160 sessions and 120 bilateral meetings, addressing key topics such as sustainable finance, smart agriculture, food security, and regional market integration.

A core focus will be on empowering SMEs, recognising their critical role in attracting foreign direct investment and fostering long-term economic resilience.

Through panels, case studies, and interactive discussions, delegates will explore how innovation, green growth, and technology-driven governance can accelerate progress toward a sustainable global economy.

Sharjah’s Expanding Global Investment Role

Supported by more than 24 local and international partners, including sponsors, strategic allies, media organisations, and investment firms, SIF 2025 represents Sharjah’s growing leadership in sustainable development and international cooperation.

The forum serves as a vital platform for building cross-border partnerships, strengthening trust in the UAE’s business environment, and connecting investors with high-potential opportunities across sectors such as finance, real estate, technology, and infrastructure.

By convening global decision-makers, SIF 2025 underscores Sharjah’s evolution from a regional business hub to a key driver of global investment dialogue shaping the future of resilient, responsible economies.