Sharjah creates new research, technology and innovation powerhouse by merging existing R&D institutions

Sharjah creates new research, technology and innovation powerhouse by merging existing R&D institutions

Sharjah, UAE: Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) is to fuse with the Sharjah Oasis for Technology and Innovation (SOTI) in a move that SRTIP Chairperson and President Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi says will boost UAE’s knowledge economy and status as an entrepreneurial haven. Under the merger, SRTIP will absorb SOTI and combine the organizations’ resources and expertise to form an independent Free Zone Authority (FZA). Consequently, the structure of SRTIP will change to reflect the new FZA’s form and function. This advancement will further unlock the considerable potential of Sharjah’s technology and innovation sector while cementing UAE’s position as a global destination for business and entrepreneurship. Since the Ruler of Sharjah H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan Bin Mohammed AlQasimi established SRTIP in 2016 by Emiri decree, it has operated as a ‘triple helix’ collaboration between industry, government and academia with oversight from the American University of Sharjah (AUS) Enterprise Program. Now, under Emiri Decree No. (9) of 2023, AUS’s oversight will be replaced by an independent Board of Directors, Chaired by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, that will manage and represent the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park Free Zone Authority. Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi said: ‘This is a very