Sharjah: The 8th edition of the Sharjah Investment Forum (SIF 2025) is opening its doors to participants from 142 countries, offering a platform for engagement with leading ministers, senior government officials, and heads of international institutions from across the globe. The forum, in conjunction with the World Investment Conference (WIC) under a unified agenda, aims to delve into global economic transformations, sustainable investment strategies, career development pathways, and partnership models that are pivotal for the future of sustainable development.
According to Emirates News Agency, the event, scheduled for 22nd and 23rd October, will feature direct dialogue with over 130 distinguished speakers, including prominent entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and figures from the media and sports sectors. These speakers will share insights on transforming experience into successful investment opportunities, thereby driving innovation and advancing the sustainable investment landscape in the UAE and the wider Arab region.
Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah, will moderate a high-level session focused on practical strategies that support economic growth and enhance investment resilience amidst geopolitical tensions, financial fluctuations, and climate disruptions. The forum's opening and plenary sessions will feature Mohamed Hassan Al Suwaidi, Minister of Investment, and Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, who will outline a unified vision for the UAE's economic diversification and detail strategies for scaling sustainable investment.
The forum will also see international ministerial participation from Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan; Miguel Medina, Minister of Investment Promotion of the Republic of Honduras; and Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh, Minister of Investment of Pakistan. Sessions will explore policy coordination and regional integration as tools for unlocking cross-border growth in emerging markets, with contributions from senior government representatives such as Fahad Al Gergawi, Mohammad AbdulRahman Alhawi, and Osama Fadhel, among others.
In addition to government participation, the two-day event will host industry leaders and senior executives. Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar Properties and Noon.com, will discuss the future of investment in smart cities. Shaker Zainal of Emirates Development Bank will address the role of development finance institutions in supporting innovation, while Khalifa Al Hajeri, CEO of Emirates Growth Fund, will discuss sustainable financing tools.
The forum will also feature figures from the media and sports sectors, adding new dimensions to the discussions. Kris Fade will moderate a session with businessman Mohamed Alabbar, while Edgar Davids and Amir Khan will share their insights on leadership and entrepreneurship. Patrice Evra will speak on his entrepreneurial journey, and Chris Knight from Financial Times Locations will discuss the influence of global financial media.
Sharjah's institutional leadership will play a central role, with participation from key figures such as Waleed AbdelRahman BuKhatir, Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, and others, highlighting the emirate's commitment to fostering sustainable development and investment.