Sharjah Ruler Initiates Communication Technologies Free Zone For Economic Growth

H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has issued an Emiri Decree to establish the Sharjah Communication Technologies "Free Zone" (COMTECH) in Kalba. This zone will have the legal capacity to achieve its goals and exercise its authority, enjoying financial and administrative independence while reporting to the Sharjah Communications Technologies Authority.

The primary objectives of COMTECH include enhancing Sharjah's position in communication technologies and contributing to economic development. The zone aims to create an attractive hub for investments, partnerships, and skilled professionals in this sector. Additionally, it seeks to support and promote the communication technology sector to elevate Sharjah’s global standing.

Another goal is to foster a conducive environment for investing in technological transformation, artificial intelligence, and future technologies. The zone also aims to aid technology firms, information centres, and artificial intelligence institutions while developing national talent in science and attracting international professionals.

To achieve its objectives, COMTECH is empowered to formulate legislation, policies, and strategic plans aligned with approved standards and practices. It must ensure compliance with international agreements and treaties that the UAE is committed to. The zone can also develop and implement communication technology policies within the emirate.

COMTECH has the authority to grant licences for marine and land cable extensions related to communication technologies. It can establish data centres for companies operating in the region and provide technical, administrative, and skilled personnel based on company requests. Additionally, it can seek support from relevant authorities for administrative and technical assistance.

Administrative Structure

The zone is overseen by the Chairman of the Sharjah Communications Technologies Free Zone. A director is appointed by either the Ruler or the Council as necessary. This director is supported by an adequate number of employees and experts according to its organisational structure.

The director holds significant authority to administer the zone's affairs. Responsibilities include formulating a comprehensive policy for approval by the President and overseeing programme execution after approval. The director also develops plans for work growth within the zone.

Director's Specific Powers

The director drafts organisational, administrative, and financial regulations for approval by the President after endorsement by the Council. Monitoring work progress in compliance with laws, issuing necessary decisions, instructions, circulars, supervising budget disbursements within allocated appropriations are key duties.

The director can establish committees with defined scopes of work and procedures. They execute contracts, agreements, memorandums of understanding (MoUs), partnerships on behalf of COMTECH after receiving necessary approvals from the President and Council.

Legal Actions & Coordination

The director undertakes all legal actions required for COMTECH operations within legal confines. They recommend organisational structures for approval by the President and appoint employees with defined responsibilities upon approval.

Coordination with federal/local authorities/entities, institutions, other free zones is essential for achieving COMTECH’s objectives. The director may delegate some authority to senior employees per current legislation.

Reporting & Representation

The director represents COMTECH before judiciary/government agencies managing external relations; they may authorise others for representation before judiciary if needed. Regular reports on activities are submitted to the President as part of their duties.

The Emiri Decree specifies that COMTECH’s organisational structure will be issued upon proposal from its president with Council approval. Financial resources provisions cover yearly budgets/exemptions/inspection powers/exemption from laws/fees/fines/non-accountability for debt/enforcement/publication aspects comprehensively addressed under this decree.

With inputs from WAM