Sharjah: His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has officially sanctioned the emirate's general budget for 2026, amounting to approximately AED44.5 billion. This budget is structured to promote financial sustainability, cultural, scientific, and economic advancement, and the social welfare of Sharjah's residents.
According to Emirates News Agency, the 2026 budget prioritizes security and social safety, alongside the sustainability of energy, water, and food resources. It also aims to improve government entities' abilities to fund strategic initiatives, provide housing solutions, and develop tourism infrastructure to foster sustainable economic development.
The budget is built on strategic and financial pillars to cultivate a leading environment in social, cultural, health, tourism, and infrastructure sectors. The focus is on achieving indicators that align with developed nations, ensuring economic prosperity is shared among all emirate residents.
The budget highlights financial sustainability and economic competitiveness as its main objectives while addressing social and employment needs. It supports capital projects across Sharjah, which are experiencing significant urban growth driven by social, tourism, and cultural advancements.
The 2026 budget reflects a 3% increase in expenditures compared to 2025. Capital projects account for 35% of the budget, while salaries and wages make up 30%, and operating expenses 25%. Subsidies and aid constitute 12%, and loan repayments and interest 15%, marking a 1% decrease from 2025. Capital expenditures are projected at 2% of the total budget.
The focus on economic sector allocation underscores strategic priorities. Infrastructure, receiving 35% of the budget, reflects a commitment to development and attracting investment. Economic development receives 30%, a 17% increase from the previous year, while social development accounts for 23%, up 6% from 2025. Government administration, security, and safety have a 12% allocation, a 16% increase from the previous year.
Revenue strategies emphasize expanding and improving collection efficiency through smart technological tools. Public revenues for 2026 have increased by 26% compared to 2025, with operating revenues up 16% and capital revenues up 35%. Tax revenues have surged by 101%, while customs and oil and gas revenues make up smaller portions of the total revenue.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Finance Department, outlined the strategic and financial goals of the budget, reflecting directives from the Ruler of Sharjah and the Executive Council's vision. The budget aims to enhance the emirate's competitiveness and government service delivery to meet global standards.
The 2026 budget includes initiatives for digital transformation and financial service enhancements, reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies. It adopts a three-dimensional approach focusing on social and economic strategies, financial sustainability, and government service improvement, fostering an attractive environment for investors.
The budget seeks to address global and regional challenges like inflation and economic instability, ensuring financial stability and competitiveness. It focuses on providing employment opportunities, developing skills, and maintaining Sharjah's standing as a cultural and economic hub.
In conclusion, the 2026 budget aligns with a strategic vision to enhance Sharjah's infrastructure, environmental protection, and tourism projects. It aims to support financial sustainability and expand investment in human resources, ensuring high-quality services for residents and reinforcing Sharjah's global cultural and scientific stature.