The Sharjah Expo Center continues to solidify its role as a key driver for the growth of the exhibition and business tourism sectors in the emirate, having attracted over 350,000 visitors during the first quarter of 2026 through 12 major exhibitions and events, featuring 1,500 exhibitors from 40 countries as part of its annual agenda, which includes 95 exhibitions.
The Center commenced the year with the “Steel Fab 2026” exhibition for the metal industries, which saw participation from 350 exhibitors and 600 brands across 25,000 square meters. It marked a technological milestone by launching the first digital twin for exhibitions in the Middle East through the “AetherX” platform, which allowed exhibitors to engage and maintain their presence even after the live event concluded.
Efforts to expand international partnerships were evident as the Center welcomed a delegation from Messe Essen in Germany to enhance collaboration in knowledge transfer and technology localization, while reinforcing the emirate’s competitiveness on the global map and attracting more significant international events.
Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Chairman of the Sharjah Expo Center, emphasized that the exhibition sector is a fundamental pillar for sustainable economic growth. He noted that the emirate aims to integrate industry, commerce, education, and culture into a cohesive system that strengthens economic partnerships.
According to Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of the Sharjah Expo Center, the operational flexibility and adaptability of Expo Sharjah to economic and technological shifts are essential, as it diversifies its agenda to include sectors like metal industries, real estate, jewelry, sustainable agriculture, and seasonal retail, all while focusing on merging commercial and community aspects.
The Sharjah Expo Center is preparing to host a wide array of upcoming events, including trade and specialized exhibitions, as well as seasonal festivals designed to boost the national economy, support small and medium enterprises, and provide a comprehensive experience for the public that combines commerce, culture, and entertainment.
The center has recorded notable successes across various sectors, such as real estate, with the “Ikras 2026” exhibition hosting 120 companies and 200 projects, alongside the launch of the first escrow account for real estate projects in the emirate.
In the jewelry sector, the seventh edition of “Jewels of the Emirates 2026” featured 180 exhibitors and 500 brands, along with the introduction of a luxury pavilion.
Additionally, in consumer retail, the “Ramadan Nights 2026” exhibition attracted 150,000 visitors, showcasing over 210 exhibitors and 700 brands with discounts exceeding 75%.
The activities of Expo Sharjah have also extended to the central and eastern regions. Among the exhibitions held in the first quarter was the third edition of the “Al Dhaid Agricultural Exhibition” at the Al Dhaid Expo Center, featuring 40 leading companies and a selection of experts who provided the latest solutions and innovations in agricultural systems and irrigation technologies. The exhibition focused on food security solutions and the employment of modern technologies and digital solutions in supply chain management, as well as the development of wheat cultivation and hydroponics, in response to the National Food Security Strategy 2051.