Expo Centre Sharjah continues to strengthen its position as a leading regional and global hub for exhibitions and conferences, playing a vital role in the emirate’s economic growth. In 2024, the Centre, along with its branches in Khorfakkan and Al Dhaid, hosted 80 major exhibitions, attracting nearly 3 million visitors. Notable events included the Sharjah International Book Fair, which welcomed 1.82 million visitors, and the Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show, which saw over 150,000 visitors and 1,400 exhibitors.
Expo Sharjah hosted a wide range of events across various other sectors as well, including commerce, real estate, manufacturing, and culture. Another one was the International Education Show, which attracted 25,000 visitors and featured 125 universities and academic institutions from more than 20 countries. The Centre also hosted the Ethraa Career Fair, focused on the financial and banking sector, with over 100 participants from top banks and financial institutions in the UAE.
More so, it formalized over 10 cooperation agreements with leading regional and global exhibition organizers. Key agreements included a partnership with MIE Events to officially launch the Evolve Future Mobility Show (EFMS), dedicated to promoting electric vehicles (EVs), in 2025 at the Centre.
Additionally, an agreement was inked with the Pakistan-based Education Scenario International to enhance the participation of Pakistani universities, colleges, and educational institutes in the upcoming edition of the International Education Show (IES).
Expo Sharjah signed a strategic partnership agreement with Magnati and PayRow Payment, two leading digital payment solutions and service providers. The agreement aims to deliver cutting-edge payment services for exhibitors and visitors, elevating their overall experience at the Centre’s events and activities.
During the SteelFab 2024 exhibition, a meeting was held with Germany’s Messe Essen to enhance bilateral cooperation, aiming to organize joint events and offer tailored services for exhibitors and visitors from both countries.
Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of Expo Centre Sharjah and the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, highlighted the Centre’s growth as a reflection of Sharjah’s robust economic infrastructure, cementing the emirate’s status as a top destination for international exhibitions. He emphasized that Sharjah’s modern infrastructure and logistical services make it an ideal environment for large-scale events.-WAM