SIF 2025 Empowers Future Investments And Enhances Global Collaboration For Sustainability

The Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) is set to host the 8th annual Sharjah Investment Forum (SIF 2025) from October 22 to 23 at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre. This year's theme, ‘Transforming Our World: Investing for a Resilient and Sustainable Future’, highlights the UAE's influence on regional and global investment trends.

For the first time, SIF will coincide with the World Investment Conference (WIC), marking its 29th edition debut in Sharjah. This collaboration underscores Sharjah's growing reputation as a hub for global economic discussions. The event is organised with the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) and the UAE Ministry of Investment.

The joint event aims to provide a platform for economic leaders, investors, and decision-makers to address current economic challenges. It will focus on sustainable investment, green finance, and food security as key drivers of resilience and cross-border growth. Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, stated: "The UAE once again reaffirms its commitment to leading global investment trends and building strategic partnerships that foster cross-border collaboration."

Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, highlighted the forum's theme as timely given the global economy's shift towards resilience and sustainability. He referenced a report indicating that over 3,900 organisations manage USD 1.571 trillion in impact investment assets globally. This represents a 21% compound annual growth rate since 2019.

SIF, alongside WIC, will explore how geopolitical, technological, and climate changes affect global investments. The agenda will examine how national strategies can adapt through proactive policies and resilient value chains. Dr. James Zhan, Chairman of the Executive Board of WIC, remarked: "We stand at the threshold of a new era in global investment— one shaped by the interactions of transformative technologies, geopolitical dynamics, and sustainability imperatives."

The forum will also focus on sustainable investment practices like green financing and ESG integration to achieve development goals in areas such as smart agriculture and food security. The global green economy was valued at approximately USD 7.9 trillion in Q1 2025.

Creating an Enabling Environment

Efforts to create a competitive investment environment through regulatory reforms will be discussed at SIF. Streamlined processes and flexible frameworks are essential for attracting long-term capital in emerging markets. The role of startups and SMEs as engines of foreign direct investment will be highlighted.

The potential for public-private partnerships to stimulate cross-border capital flows is another key topic. Mechanisms for cooperation among investment promotion agencies, regional institutions, and both public and private sectors will be explored.

This year’s SIF underscores the UAE's central role in shaping the global economic landscape while enhancing local businesses' integration into international markets. It reflects Sharjah’s commitment to fostering networks for cooperation and sustainable growth amid evolving global conditions.

With inputs from WAM