Logistics industrial zone announced in Sharjah

Sharjah has announced plans to construct its first mixed-use industrial area, designed to provide a range of logistics services to the emirate’s business community.

Sharjah Investment Centre will be located on the Emirates Road, near Sharjah International Airport and Hamriyah Port. The ambitious project measures 32 million square feet and includes separate industrial, commercial and residential areas.

“Sharjah Investment Centre has been designed with logistics in mind. A large part of its premises will accommodate a logistics park and include a complete range of logistics activities,” said Sheikh Saleh Al Sorayai, chairman of SNASCO, a Saudi property development and investment company, which has partnered with Emirati companies to implement the project.

SNASCO initiated the project following several in-depth feasibility studies on the local market and its requirements. The centre will include storage facilities, logistics support services, labour accommodation and dedicated areas for light and medium industry. In addition, SNASCO is planning to include a number of hotels, leisure services and a commercial centre.

Sharjah Investment Centre is being strategically located on Emirates Road, close to Sharjah International Airport and Hamriyah Port, which are known for their huge commercial movement.

“The project’s location near the airport provides access to one of the largest air cargo hubs in the world,” said Al Sorayai. “It can also capitalise on the Dubai-Sharjah link, which is a vital for import and export activities. In addition, there is easy access to Port Khalid, Hamriyah Freezone Port and Port Khor Fakkan.”

A range of logistics-specifi c industrial areas have already been announced in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah. However, Al Sorayai believes Sharjah Investment Centre will carve a unique niche for itself in the lucrative logistics market.

“What we will offer is beyond the par with what is already available,” he said. “What is being developed here is not just another mega project designed to generate cash, but actually a development that will be absolutely crucial to the future long term development of Sharjah.”

“This project has given us the opportunity to present something distinguished to the UAE and Sharjah in particular,” he added.

With so many logistics zones being planed in the United Arab Emirates, this latest announcement in Sharjah was largely expected by the logistics industry. The initial response, according to Al Sorayai, has been positive. “It has met with much anticipation and excitement,” he said. “This project is expected to enhance the economic environment of Sharjah and the rest of the country. It is being welcomed warmly by both local business and those from outside, looking to invest in the emirate.”