The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry held an expanded meeting with the Shopping Malls Sector Business Group to review plans for sector development and strengthen investment attractiveness. Moreover, discussions focused on improving service systems in shopping malls in line with Sharjah’s sustainable economic development strategy and domestic tourism goals.
The agenda also covered priorities to enhance competitiveness and reinforce Sharjah’s positioning as a regional destination for shopping and entertainment. Additionally, the meeting addressed broader coordination efforts aimed at strengthening the emirate’s retail ecosystem.
The meeting took place at the Chamber’s headquarters and included Dr Fatema Khalifa Al Muqarrab, Director of International Relations, Amjad Awad al Karim, Head of the Sectoral Business Groups Department, and Abdullah Al Balushi, Head of the Shopping Malls Sector Business Group. Furthermore, several officials and mall representatives across Sharjah attended.
Participants praised the response of government entities to recent weather-related challenges. As a result, they said the measures helped reinforce investor and consumer confidence while demonstrating economic resilience.
Dr Fatema Khalifa Al Muqarrab said the Chamber remains committed to strengthening cooperation with the Shopping Malls Sector Business Group. Moreover, she said the partnership supports targeted initiatives aimed at accelerating sector growth and boosting its contribution to commercial activity.
She added that strong operational standards across shopping malls play a key role in stimulating domestic tourism. Additionally, she noted that malls can serve as integrated destinations for both local and international visitors.
Focus on SME support and operational resilience
Participants reviewed strategies to support SMEs operating within shopping malls. Moreover, discussions included innovative approaches and flexible leasing models designed to strengthen long-term sustainability and expand SME participation in the retail sector.
The meeting also examined measures to mitigate climate-related risks and improve infrastructure readiness. Additionally, attendees discussed ways to optimise operational performance and enhance service delivery.
Furthermore, participants highlighted the need to integrate retail sector stakeholders with the Shopping Malls Sector Business Group to improve coordination. As a result, the discussions supported a unified framework for advancing Sharjah’s retail and shopping environment.
Retail festivals and “Healthy City” alignment
Attendees stressed the importance of aligning mall services with Sharjah’s “Healthy City” agenda. Moreover, they called for upgraded family and child-focused offerings and expanded recreational and wellness platforms to global standards.
They also said malls should strengthen their role as lifestyle destinations combining shopping, entertainment, and health-oriented experiences. Additionally, the meeting reviewed strategies to enhance retail festivals and seasonal promotional campaigns as drivers of economic activity.
Participants praised the success of the 36th Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2026. Furthermore, they highlighted broad participation from shopping malls, major brands, and productive families.
