Sharjah: The Sharjah Foundation to Support Pioneering Entrepreneurs (RUWAD), affiliated with the Sharjah Department of Economic Development, reported that its member projects earned AED3,484,680 in government contracts across the UAE in 2024, marking a 23.9% increase from 2023.
According to Emirates News Agency, Acting Director Fatima Al Ali emphasized that this growth underscores RUWAD members' strong position as trusted providers to federal and local government agencies. The increase demonstrates growing trust in the services and goods provided by Emirati entrepreneurs, reinforcing their role in national development and public-private collaborations.
Al Ali highlighted RUWAD's dedication to enhancing its members' competitiveness through focused training programmes, awareness workshops, and discussions on government procurement methods. Members are encouraged to join approved supplier platforms and participate in digital tendering processes.
Furthermore, Al Ali noted that the foundation collaborates with key authorities such as the Ministry of Finance and Sharjah's Central Finance Department to foster a conducive business environment. These collaborations enable increased participation in bids and provide additional incentives and opportunities for enterprises.
In 2024, 46 RUWAD projects signed 318 contracts with 42 federal agencies, offering services ranging from hospitality and catering to facility management and office operations. Leading contracting bodies included the Sharjah Police Academy, Kalba Municipality, and the Districts Affairs Department.
By the end of 2024, the number of RUWAD members registered as suppliers with Sharjah's Central Finance Department increased to 129, up from 14 the previous year, representing a 250% increase. This growth allows more projects to benefit from government procurement privileges.
RUWAD members also completed 22 mutual deals as part of the "Tashbeek" initiative, which aims to develop entrepreneurial relationships while boosting collaboration and service integration.