SCCI Opens Souq Al Freej Market To Celebrate Ramadan And Support Local SMEs

The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) has recently launched the "Souq Al Freej" Ramadan market at Sharjah National Park, marking a significant addition to the 34th Sharjah Ramadan Festival. This initiative, running until 4th April, aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and productive families by providing them with a platform to display and sell their products. The opening ceremony saw the presence of notable figures including Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, chairman of SCCI, and Salem Ali Al Muhairi, Chairman of Sharjah City Municipal Council (SCMC), among others.

The market is a vibrant commercial hub where entrepreneurs, SME owners, and productive families offer an array of products ranging from fashion and food to accessories that reflect Emirati heritage. It also features shopping stalls, a heritage village, a restaurant lounge offering local cuisine, and entertainment activities for children. This initiative not only promotes trade activity across the Sharjah Emirate but also positions it as a distinctive tourist destination.

Abdullah Sultan Al Owais highlighted the collaborative effort between the public and private sectors in organizing such innovative marketing initiatives. Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al-Awadi, Director-General of SCCI, emphasized the event's role in showcasing UAE’s local products and supporting entrepreneurs. Ibrahim Rashid Al Jarwan, Director of Economic Relations and Marketing at SCCI, pointed out the unique heritage flair the market brings to the Sharjah Ramadan Festival.

Aisha Saleh, the official spokesperson for the Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2024, mentioned that "Souq Al Freej" serves as an important platform for community engagement and supports local businesses by facilitating interactions between entrepreneurs and shoppers seeking unique locally inspired products. The market offers a wide range of products that align with Ramadan traditions, including traditional attire, popular delicacies, sweet dishes, handcrafted accessories, and souvenirs. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Emirati dishes, enhancing their shopping experience with a special Ramadan atmosphere.

Ramadan Nights 2024 welcomes visitors daily from 19:30 until 01:00, offering an exceptional opportunity for families to come together and enjoy a heritage-inspired shopping experience. This initiative not only supports SMEs and productive families but also contributes to sustainable economic development in the region, reinforcing Sharjah's position as a leading commercial and economic hub.

With inputs from WAM