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The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival is set to host a significant gathering of global and regional leaders as part of its Impact Zone, one of ten specialized areas within the event. According to the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), the Impact Zone will feature 30 keynote speeches and panel discussions delivered by more than 45 speakers, including business leaders, innovators, and changemakers engaging with the international entrepreneurship community. The festival takes place on January 31 and February 1 at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park.
For the fourth consecutive year, Sheraa presents the Impact Zone with support from Arada, reflecting a strategic partnership committed to enhancing community readiness for the future and developing innovative ideas. The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival aims to open avenues for high-level dialogues discussing the future of startups while showcasing companies and initiatives that have achieved significant economic and social impact.
Prominent Leaders to Address Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival
The Impact Zone will welcome several distinguished regional and international leaders, according to festival organizers. Among the notable speakers are Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah, His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, and Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dhahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment. Additionally, Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi, the first female minister in the United Arab Emirates, will participate in the discussions.
Sara Abdulaziz Al Nuaimi, Executive Director of Sheraa, emphasized the importance of the Impact Zone as an integral part of the entrepreneurship festival. She stated that the zone brings together global leaders, changemakers, and innovators from diverse sectors whose insights help guide discussions about transformations shaping the future of business and society. According to Al Nuaimi, the Impact Zone provides a practical framework for exchanging expertise and formulating clear directions, supporting more informed decision-making and opening new pathways for collaboration.
Strategic Partnership Supports Innovation Ecosystem
Ahmed Al Khoshaibi, Chief Executive Officer of Arada Group, highlighted the significance of the ongoing partnership with Sheraa. He noted that the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival serves as a platform for serious ideas and impactful solutions. The continued collaboration aligns with Arada’s commitment to providing spaces for interactive and vibrant communities, according to the executive.
This year’s Impact Zone program features prominent figures from policy, business, creativity, and sports sectors, reflecting the high caliber of dialogue the festival delivers year after year. The diverse speaker lineup aims to address pressing challenges facing entrepreneurs and businesses in the region and beyond.
Key Sessions Focus on Food Security and Sustainable Development
One of the central discussions at the Impact Zone will address food systems and regional quality of life through a session titled “Building the Future Food Economy.” Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, and Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dhahak will participate in this session, examining sustainability and long-term food security in the region.
Meanwhile, Her Excellency Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi and Mona Al Qarq, CEO of Meem Foundation, will discuss the philanthropic landscape in Sharjah, the UAE, and the broader region. Their session, titled “Philanthropy and Impact Investment: Redefining Sustainable Growth Trajectory in the Region,” will explore social development approaches and their role in fostering sustainable growth.
Diverse Perspectives on Leadership and Performance
Her Highness Sayyida Basma Al Said will present a session titled “A World That Fits Everyone,” drawing on her extensive experience in mental health, social systems, and equality. In contrast, Nand Kishore Chaudhary, founder of Jaipur Rugs, will deliver insights on “Ethical Leadership: Building Business with a Human Perspective,” focusing on equality and equal opportunities in work environments.
Additionally, the Impact Zone will feature perspectives from professional sports through retired Formula 1 champion Sebastian Vettel. His session, “High Performance Under Pressure: Formula 1 Lessons for Today’s Entrepreneurs,” will offer practical insights for business leaders navigating challenging environments.
The two-day Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival is expected to conclude on February 1, though organizers have not yet announced specific outcomes or follow-up initiatives that may emerge from the Impact Zone discussions.
