Sharjah: Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of the Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) and the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone), has been honoured at the 2025 Middle East and North Africa Stevie Awards, receiving silver in the "Most Innovative Leader of the Year" category and bronze for 'Innovative Achievement in Thought Leadership.'
According to Emirates News Agency, the Stevie Awards, one of the most prestigious globally, recognized Al Mazrouei for his excellence in leading strategic projects that promote sustainable economic development. His expertise in managing Sharjah free zones has helped attract more than 15,000 companies from 160 countries, reinforcing their status as top investment hubs in the region and beyond.
Al Mazrouei was selected from a pool of more than 1,100 nominees representing 13 countries. The awards ceremony, held at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Ras Al Khaimah under the patronage of the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce, featured a distinguished judging panel composed of global business and economic experts.
The judging process involved a detailed set of criteria to evaluate the creativity and real-world impact of leadership practices implemented by institutions and individuals, ensuring that only those with the highest standards of excellence and innovation were chosen as winners.
Al Mazrouei received the honour from Michael Gallagher, Executive Chairman of the Stevie Awards in the presence of senior government officials, private sector representatives, and members of the press.
Saud Salim Al Mazrouei emphasised that winning the Stevie Awards is a testament to the collective efforts of the teams at both HFZA and SAIF Zone. He stated that this recognition will further reinforce their commitment to adopting cutting-edge practices, fostering innovation, and striving for excellence in managing the two free zones.
Al Mazrouei highlighted the significant milestones achieved by HFZA and SAIF Zone last year, attracting more than 1,600 companies globally. He noted that this recognition is more than just an award-it's a motivation to keep pushing forward, strengthening Sharjah's position as a global leader in free zones and innovative services.
He expressed gratitude towards the Stevie Awards organising committee, the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce, and the jury for the honour, reaffirming their commitment to investors, innovation, and excellence as they enhance services and introduce new initiatives.