Economic free zones, political stability and diversification have fuelled development and growth in Sharjah – the emirate now accounts for one-third of the UAE's manufacturing sector – but its government has further plans to maximise its appeal to international investors. 

Sharjah's organic growth strategy has shielded it from the negative repercussions of the global economic downturn, says the Marwan Jassim Al Sarkal, chief executive of Sharjah's investment and development authority. This left its officials free to solve infrastructure problems – such as traffic congestion and power shortages – which were threatening to limit the emirate's growth.

Sharjah is positioning itself as a safe, family-friendly holiday destination and is anticipating increased demand, particularly at the high end of the travel and leisure sector.

While the airports of Dubai and Abu Dhabi have focused on long-haul flights for wealthy passengers, Sharjah's smaller international airport has acquired a reputation for speed and efficiency while carving out a niche for short-haul flights aimed at middle-class travellers.

Marine and air freight services, waste management and education are just some of the areas in which Sharjah is leading the way not only in the United Arab Emirates, but throughout the whole of the Middle East.