{
  "id": 14683140,
  "title": "Sharjah eyes ports and rail as geopolitics reshape trade",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/15/sharjah-eyes-ports-and-rail-as-geopolitics-reshape-trade",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-15T10:58:51.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf News",
    "slug": "gulf-news",
    "url": "https://gulfnews.com/business/sharjah-eyes-ports-and-rail-as-geopolitics-reshape-trade-1.500711570"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Emirates of Sharjah are positioning ports and logistics as key areas for investment amidst shifting global trade dynamics driven by geopolitical tensions, according to H.E. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority. This strategy was highlighted during a discussion at the ninth Sharjah Investment Forum. Al Qaseer emphasized the significance of Khorfakkan Port and the emerging rail network in connecting the emirates, asserting that the UAE's leadership, infrastructure, and diversity are essential in weathering global economic shocks. While the forum does not disclose specific investment figures, it is described as a platform where participation's value lies in how effectively attendees leverage its resources. Over 7,000 attendees have participated in the nine editions of the forum, which attracts startups seeking funding and established firms signing deals. Speakers from various local, regional, and global markets share their expertise, and the primary goal is to see the deals discussed at the forum materialize after the event. When questioned about competition with Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Al Qaseer firmly stated, \"We don't compete, but we complement\" each other, highlighting that each emirate leverages its unique strengths. Sharjah's appeal lies in its industry focus and a culturally authentic approach to tourism. Despite global uncertainties, Al Qaseer expressed confidence in the emirate's resilience, drawing parallels to the UAE's swift recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, where government adaptability and economic rebound played pivotal roles. He reiterated the government's readiness to adapt policies as necessary and emphasized that the required infrastructure is already in place. Looking ahead, the Sharjah Investment Forum 2026 aims to gather 10,000 investors and business leaders to foster further growth and collaboration.",
  "summary": "Sharjah: The Emirates of Sharjah is putting ports and logistics at the front of its investment pitch as geopolitical tension reshapes global trade routes. H.E. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority, outlined the shift in an interview with Gulf News at the ninth Sharjah Investment Forum. “Within the current situation, we see the importance of logistics,” Al…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}