Page 286 - MAJRA PR REPORT - FEBRUARY 2025

Group earned the Ecosystem Enabler award, Remal won in the Rising Star category, and Dr.
Mohamed Al Hemairy was named Outstanding Mentor for his exceptional guidance.

Sheraa, which has played a pivotal role in fostering the UAE’s startup ecosystem, received over 400
nominations this year, underscoring the region’s growing enthusiasm for innovation.

Importance of entrepreneurship

Gregg Pearce, Head of SME Segment at du, emphasised the importance of entrepreneurship during
his keynote address: “There has never been a better time to be an entrepreneur, and no better place
than the UAE to start your journey. I would like to thank Sheraa and everyone working behind the
scenes to make SEF the biggest and best it has ever been. To all business owners, let’s invest in
entrepreneurs to ensure the continued growth of the community. If you’re an entrepreneur or aspire
to be one, start today—there’s no time like the present.”

“We take immense pride in contributing to the flourishing entrepreneurial ecosystem, which we
helped cultivate in 2016 when Sheraa was founded,” said Abeer Al Amiri, Head of Partnerships &
Programs at Sheraa. “Since then, we have supported over 450 startups, created more than 1,900
jobs, generated over $248 million in revenue, and secured over $271 million in investments. Our
mission is to continue empowering entrepreneurs, positioning the Emirates as a leading hub for
highly skilled talent and groundbreaking ventures.”

This year’s SEF saw over 300 speakers from 45 countries, 250 activations, and five dynamic stages,
making it the largest event of its kind in the region. The festival’s impact continues to resonate as a
major force in the entrepreneurial landscape.

The networking event and awards ceremony were supported by the Sharjah Commerce & Tourism
Development Authority, RUWAD, Crescent Enterprises, Air Arabia, Entrepreneur Magazine (official
media partner), Beeah, Majra, Emirates Development Bank, Sharjah Airport, Sharjah Book
Authority, 1Tank, Augustus Media, Sharjah Roads & Transport Authority (SRTA), Multiples, Floward,
and Fursan of Emirates Volunteering Society.

https://sharjah24.ae/en/Articles/2025/02/02/ZX65