SHARJAH: The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) 2025, happening on February 1-2 at the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SRTIP), is set to inspire innovation through its Sharjah Startup Zone, powered by du. With over 150 startup pods, this vibrant hub supports the UAE’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting innovators, investors, and industry leaders.
The Sharjah Startup Zone features an Investors Lounge, powered by Multiples, hosting 100+ investors and facilitating over 320 impactful meetings. The zone’s Founders Stage brings renowned speakers discussing Edtech, sustainability, scaling startups, and innovative business strategies.
Notable speakers include Abdallah Abu Sheikh (Astratech), Maaz Sheikh (StarzPlay), Mazen Tabbara (House of Pops), and Charlie Wright (Humantra). These industry leaders will share insights into F&B, wellness, media, and entertainment. Nikita and Rhea Patel (The Bureau) and Vicky Kukreja (Anphonic) will explore female entrepreneurship and AI in e-commerce.
The SEF x 1Tank Pitch Competition, a highlight of the festival, offers entrepreneurs AED 200,000 in grants and the chance to secure up to AED 500,000 in funding. This competition embodies SEF’s mission to transform visionary ideas into thriving ventures.
Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, emphasised that the Sharjah Startup Zone empowers changemakers to redefine possibilities. Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du, reaffirmed their commitment to fostering entrepreneurship through collaboration and innovation.
With its dynamic offerings, SEF 2025 positions Sharjah as a hub for entrepreneurial excellence and sustainable growth.


