Sharjah Ruler Issues Emiri Decree To Establish The Sharjah Design Centre For Innovation And Design

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has issued an Emiri Decree to establish the Sharjah Design Centre (SDC). This centre will have its own legal identity and full capacity to perform necessary legal actions to meet its objectives. It will operate with financial and administrative independence, under the ownership of the Government of Sharjah.

The main headquarters of the SDC will be situated in the Sharjah Creative Quarter within University City. The Ruler may decide to open additional branches in other cities or regions within the emirate. The decree outlines several objectives for the centre, including celebrating culture, creativity, and innovation in prototype design and manufacturing both locally and regionally.

The centre aims to support design and manufacturing by enhancing entrepreneurship and using design as a key economic driver. It seeks to integrate innovation and excellence in these fields while achieving sustainable leadership in quality and creativity. Promoting design within society, culture, education, and the economy is also a primary goal.

Among its competencies, the SDC will launch initiatives focused on economically and environmentally sustainable prototype design and manufacturing. These initiatives will include products, research projects, and archival materials. Collaborations with thinkers, designers, manufacturers, educators, researchers, and businesses are also part of its mandate.

The SDC will organise exchange programmes and host exhibitions for local and international designers. It aims to provide education and professional development opportunities in design and manufacturing. Creating platforms for collective development through innovative practices is another focus area.

Engaging in commercial activities is part of the centre's strategy to promote its products in local and global markets. The SDC will offer spaces for private studios, co-working areas, and exhibition spaces. Seeking technical support from specialised agencies within the emirate is also planned.

A director appointed by the Ruler will manage the centre's administrative and financial affairs. Responsibilities include approving general policies, supervising operations according to laws, issuing regulations, signing agreements, representing the centre legally, approving organisational structures, budgets, final accounts, and any other tasks aligned with the centre's goals.

The decree includes provisions regarding financial resources along with final provisions related to fee exemptions. Executive decisions concerning enforcement and publication are also covered under this decree.

This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering innovation in design while supporting economic growth through creative industries within Sharjah.

With inputs from WAM