HFZA And SAIF Zone's Saud Salim Al Mazrouei Honoured At 2025 MENA Stevie Awards For Innovative Leadership

Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of the Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) and the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone), has been recognised at the 2025 Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards. He received a silver award for "Most Innovative Leader of the Year" and a bronze for "Innovative Achievement in Thought Leadership." These awards highlight his role in advancing sustainable economic development through strategic projects.

The Stevie Awards are globally renowned, and Al Mazrouei's recognition underscores his leadership in managing Sharjah's free zones. His efforts have attracted over 15,000 companies from 160 countries, solidifying these zones as premier investment destinations. The awards ceremony took place at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Ras Al Khaimah, under the patronage of the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce.

Al Mazrouei was chosen from more than 1,100 nominees across 13 countries. The judging panel comprised global business and economic experts who evaluated nominees based on creativity and real-world impact. This rigorous process ensures that only those meeting high standards of excellence and innovation are honoured.

Michael Gallagher, Executive Chairman of the Stevie Awards, presented the award to Al Mazrouei. The event was attended by senior government officials, private sector representatives, and media members. Al Mazrouei expressed that this recognition is a testament to the collective efforts at HFZA and SAIF Zone.

"This prestigious recognition will further reinforce our commitment to adopting cutting-edge practices, fostering innovation, and striving for excellence in managing the two free zones. From creating a model investment environment to delivering world-class services that streamline business operations, the free zones have set a benchmark for global competitiveness," Al Mazrouei said.

He credited His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi for his visionary guidance and support in developing Sharjah’s free zones. Last year alone, HFZA and SAIF Zone attracted over 1,600 companies worldwide. This achievement motivates continued efforts to enhance Sharjah’s status as a leader in free zones and innovative services.

"This recognition is more than just an award—it’s a motivation to keep pushing forward, strengthening Sharjah’s position as a global leader in free zones and innovative services.It also reaffirms the emirate’s role as a key economic powerhouse, known for its remarkable diversification. I sincerely appreciate the Stevie Awards organising committee, the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce, and the jury for this honour. Our commitment to investors, along with our drive for innovation and excellence, will continue to guide us as we enhance our services and introduce new, forward-thinking initiatives." Al Mazrouei added.

The awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also highlight Sharjah's role as an economic powerhouse known for its diverse economy. The focus remains on maintaining investor confidence while introducing innovative initiatives that enhance service offerings within these free zones.

With inputs from WAM