ISSUE 42 July to September 2017

BUSINESSA QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER FROM HAMRIYAH FREE ZONE ZONE AUTHORITY | WWW.HFZA.AE

HFZA enters into strategic partnership with Bee’ah

Hamriyah Free Zone highlights Gum Arabic Gulf Factory to HFZA wins Arabian Business 07 its advantages at StocExpo 11 open US$ 15 million plant in 14 Excellence Award 2017 MEA 2017 HFZA’s Food Park www.hfza.ae Business Zone July to September 2017 | 3 CONTENTS 04 05 Director’s Message HFZA enters 06 into strategic HFZA showcases achievements partnership and consolidated business offerings Contentswith Bee’ah at Hannover Messe

08 Investment potential of HFZ and in the spotlight

12 10 Portuguese investors briefed on HFZA hosts HFZA’s dedicated Food Park annual Iftar gathering for its employees 11 Gum Arabic Gulf Factory to open US$ 15 million plant in HFZA’s Food Park

14 15 HFZA bestowed with HFZA’s Ramadan Spirit of Giving Arabian Business initiative launched Excellence Award 2017 16 HFZA discusses areas of mutual 18 cooperation with Al Hamriyah Club Sharjah named World Book Capital 2019 17 ARADA poised to benefit from uplift in Sharjah real estate market

19 22 Sharjah Child Safety Campaign teaches motorists about importance Cultural fiesta of seatbelts; spreads awareness of marks 15th Sharjah online dangers Heritage Days; attracts over 350,000 visitors from 20 over 30 countries Sharjah initiative to help visually- impaired read DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE www.hfza.ae FEATURE Business Zone July to September 2017 | 5

Committed to supporting the UAE’s vision of providing an innovative and sustainable future, HFZA has entered into a strategic partnership with Bee’ah that elevates Hamriyah Free Zone as the first green free zone in the country and promotes its name as a hub for waste management and recycling. This collaboration is also a step forward in realizing our sustainable vision for the Free Zone.

HFZA is currently on the threshold of developing new horizons. The partnership agreement with Gum Arabic Gulf Factory to set up a US$ 15 million plant in our newly launched Food Park underscores the importance of this flagship project as a world class zone. As the region’s first and largest city dedicated to food and commercial industries, this mega project is part of the Free Zone’s endeavor and commitment to develop innovative services and to cater to the growing demand of food products in local and regional markets.

The Free Zone has always had a reputation as a logistics center Hamriyah Free Zone Authority enters for the upstream oil and gas industry, and as a main hub for the SAUD SALIM AL MAZROUEI Gulf service sector. This was further emphasized at the StocExpo Director Middle East Africa where I participated as a panel member into strategic partnership with Bee’ah Hamriyah Free Zone Authority and highlighted our key strengths as an efficient multi-modal connectivity center that is attracting significant foreign direct aud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director collected waste in producing alternative to preserve the environments and its s we enter the half-way mark of 2017, I am investment and modern technology from a strong base of oil Sof Hamriyah Free Zone Authority energy. elements through innovative solutions proud to say that Hamriyah Free Zone is and gas powerhouses. Our participation in several international (HFZA) and Sharjah Airport for a sustainable future,” added Al A Training courses will be conducted for riding on the next wave of growth. Our world- events has also provided a unique platform for showcasing the International Free Zone and H.E. Khaled Mazrouei. “This agreement with Bee’ah the staff of the Environmental Health class infrastructure and association with the advantages of operating out of the Free Zone. Al Huraimel, Group CEO of Bee’ah is a step forward in realizing our and Safety Department as well as the most dynamic businesses from around the have signed a strategic partnership sustainable vision for the Free Zone.” Maintenance and Investors Department globe have leveraged our already established One of our most anticipated events in the Free Zone’s calendar agreement in the presence of several peer industry position to significantly grow is the annual tradition of an Iftar get-together held in the spirit as per work requirements. A joint team Al Huraimel added: “This agreement senior officials from both organizations our business, improve profitability and deliver of the holy month of Ramadan. We look forward to this event comprising of members of HFZA and comes in support of our endeavors to last June. excellent value for our investors. each year as it serves to strengthen the bonds of cooperation and Bee’ah will be formed to monitor the promote Sharjah as the environmental develop team spirit amongst the staff. The agreement stipulates the working mechanism of the waste capital of the Middle East and is in Being honored with the Arabian Business development of an integrated system management and resolve any difficulties line with the sustainable vision of Excellence Award 2017 has underscored the truly The spirit of giving shone brighter at Ramadan this year as we of waste management and collection that investors may face in addition to HH Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al dynamic business environment in HFZA. Through embarked on an initiative to promote the culture of giving back to services in Hamriyah Free Zone to be digitalization of environmental services Qasimi, member of the Federal Supreme our strong business practices, we have amply the community. Under HFZA’s Ramadan Spirit of Giving initiative, used in producing renewable energy. provided in the Free Zone. Council and Ruler of Sharjah to provide demonstrated the innovative and entrepreneurial food baskets were distributed to each of our employees who were, a healthy and sustainable environment Speaking at the signing ceremony, “We aim to provide the best services to spirit, leadership skills and industrious ethic in turn, encouraged to share it with others as we believe that any to the residents and future generations that exist throughout the HFZA community. I act of kindness, no matter how small it is, is ever wasted. Al Mazrouei said, “This collaboration our clients who invest in a sustainable of the emirate.” thank each one of our employees for continuing comes in line with HFZA’s strategy of environment of the highest international to shape HFZA’s corporate landscape through Warm regards reinforcing partnerships and integration standards as well as promote the role “The agreement also supports our innovative and dynamic processes as we move SAUD SALIM AL MAZROUEI with all government and private entities. of the locally and efforts towards recycling waste and forward to another exciting phase in our growth. Director, HFZA This agreement will also highlight regionally as part of the efforts exerted diverting it from landfills,” he said. Hamriyah Free Zone as the first green free zone in the country and promote its name as a hub for waste management BUSINESS ZONE and recycling.” A Quarterly Newsletter From Hamriyah Free Zone Authority The agreement states that solid and ISSUE 42 Hamriyah Free Zone Authority liquid waste collection services will July to September 2017 Government of Sharjah be provided in the first and second PO Box 1377, Sharjah, stages - including public utilities - as EDITORIAL Tel: +971 6 526 3333 Fax: +971 6 526 3555 Tel: +971 6 513 3420 Email: [email protected] Web:www.hfza.ae Bee’ah will set up a special office in the Free Zone for direct coordination with ADVERTISING /HamriyahFZA the Environmental Health and Safety Tel: +971 6 513 3429, +971 6 513 420 /HamriyahFZA Department at HFZA concerning the Email: [email protected] /HamriyahFZA waste management and collection /Hamriyah Free Zone Authority activities. Environmental regulations Business Zone is an in-house Newsletter published by Hamriyah Free Zone Authority for private circulation only. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole and rules applicable in the Free Zone From left to right: Khalid Issa, Head of Sales & Business Development and Khalid Al Huraimel, Group CEO Bee’ah, with Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director and T V Ramesh, CFO of HFZA or in print without the prior written permission from HFZA. The publisher will not accept liability for any errors or omissions contained in this issue. All rights reserved. ©2017 HFZA. will be further developed to utilize the EVENTS www.hfza.ae EVENTS Business Zone July to September 2017 | 7 HFZA showcases achievements and consolidated business offerings at Hannover Messe HFZ’s potential as a great place for international companies to conduct business was also communicated at the event, he added. “Hamriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) is the second largest industrial free zone in the UAE with over 6500 companies, and has been participating at Hannover Messe for many years due to its importance,” explained Al Jarwan. “We offer the best infrastructure facilities and high quality services to welcome foreign investment Hamriyah Free Zone highlights its advantages in various sectors like manufacturing, trade and services.” amriyah Free Zone concluded its Commercial Director, who led the HFZA at StocExpo MEA 2017 Hparticipation at Hannover Messe team at the event, “Hannover Messe Ajeeb Moidunni, Head of Business 2017, the world’s leading trade fair for was an excellent venue to woo potential Development Department and amriyah Free Zone Authority facilities and services, Hamriyah Free and HFZ investors from oil & gas industrial technology, with a variety investors and decision makers from Muhamed Basheer, Head of Overseas H(HFZA), the second largest and Zone has always had a reputation as a industries attended the event and of discussions and agreements with various sectors including industrial Promotion were also part of the HFZA fastest growing industrial free zone in logistics center for the upstream oil and showcased their capabilities in a bid the UAE, was a key sponsor of this year’s gas industry – a chief hub for the Gulf international stakeholders and fresh automation and IT, power transmission delegation at the event. to attract the leading petrochemical, StocExpo Middle East Africa that was service sector,” he said. “The oil and gas investors. Held from 24th to 28th April, and control, energy and environmental chemical and oil & gas companies. the event brought together 250,000 HFZ has become an ideal transshipment held in Dubai from 26th to 27th April. industry is vital to Hamriyah Free Zone technologies, industrial subcontracting, visitors and 6,500 exhibitors from hub for the Indian Subcontinent, North and several companies within the Free At the event, HFZA was honored with an production engineering & services and Hosting over 6,500 companies from over across the globe. Hannover Messe also and East Africa and the Arabian Gulf. Zone have expanded their operations award for Best Stand Design. research & development. Participation 160 countries and extending across 22 provided HFZA with a unique platform Oil and gas, maritime and steel, form which just reinforces its reputation as at the event was an opportunity to sq kms, HFZA featured a large pavilion StocExpo Middle East Africa featured for showcasing the advantages of the core sectors of the Free Zone. Other the ideal hub for investors to conduct present the Free Zone’s achievements dedicated to one of the UAE’s largest operating out of the UAE. prominent sectors include construction, their businesses.” over 100 international and local suppliers and consolidated business offerings to building materials, packaging and food petrochemical, chemical, oil and gas showcasing a broad range of the latest According to Ali Al Jarwan, Deputy the European market.” production, in addition to several others. hub and home to hundreds of storage Investors at the Free Zone also shared technologies, new products and valuable terminals. their experiences of setting up business industry services. Exhibitors reflected in HFZ and praised the support the entire supply chain, from tank Visitors at the event had the and cooperation received from the HFZA explores dynamic business opportunities at AIM 2017 design, construction and maintenance, opportunity to visit the HFZA pavilion management and administrative staff through to innovations in metering which included representation from at all times. “The event also provided an invaluable the leading terminals and companies and measuring, pumps and valves, opportunity for attendees to explore within HFZA including - amongst The Sales, Marketing & Business automation and loading equipment and different investment options and to help several others - Arya Group, a leading Development teams of the Free Zone inspection and certification services. attendees including academics, experts, supplier of petroleum products which CEOs, investors and businesspersons has a storage terminal at HFZ; Sharjah take decisions on their next investment National Lube Oil Co. Ltd; a pioneer destination,” he added. manufacturer and supplier of high “Over the past few years, Hamriyah Free quality oils and lubricants; OBN Energy, Zone has attained a remarkable level a group of companies providing a range of success based on carefully applied of solutions including trading, storage, strategic plans that have resulted in bunkering and shipping; and Universal expansion and growth and contributed Lubricant (Zinol) LLC, a multinational to an increase in development rates. group and manufacturer and trader of amriyah Free Zone Authority (HFZA) Representing HFZA at the event were This was achieved by meeting investors, oil and petroleum products. Hwas one of the strategic partners Rakesh Ranjan, Chief Development listening to them, fulfilling their needs HFZA, along with several members of representing Sharjah at the seventh Officer; Omar Rashid Al-leem, Head of and encouraging them to invest in its investor community, participated edition of the Annual Investment Sales Support; and Geomon George, Sharjah,” said Omar Rashid Al-leem. Meeting (AIM 2017) held from 2nd to 4th Business Development Executive. in a panel discussion on Day 1 of April at Dubai World Trade Centre. “Our participation in AIM 2017 has the conference at StocExpo Middle As a global platform for the exchange been extremely successful and led to East Africa. Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, As one of the world’s premier events of ideas, experiences and investment many agreements and constructive Director of HFZA and Sharjah Airport focusing on foreign direct investment, opportunities, AIM 2017 helped HFZA partnerships. We are confident that this International Free Zone presented AIM 2017 hosted 40 international forge economic agreements and will contribute to the emirate’s overall the Free Zone’s offering to the pavilions and attracted business investment partnerships in the UAE and investment and economic growth,” he petrochemical, chemical and oil and delegations from 100 countries. the wider region, said Rakesh Ranjan. added. gas industry. “Due to our excellent EVENTS www.hfza.ae EVENTS Business Zone July to September 2017 | 9

investment potential of the region has Investment potential of HFZ and Sharjah in the spotlight HFZA highlights investment outlook transformed Hamriyah Free Zone into a truly multi-national, cosmopolitan and excellence. of Sharjah at business summit and a dynamic industrial and trading “Hamriyah Free Zone is committed to supply chain solutions. hub with companies from virtually developing new services and initiatives every part of the world,” he said. that are transforming and optimizing Other HFZA representatives at the Well connected to ports, major Sharjah’s free zones into fully integrated event included Cristina dela Cueva, highways and airports, HFZ also offers areas that allow investors hands-on Marketing Executive, and Jocelyn world class infrastructure and facilities access to insights, information, data David, Secretary. and a well-developed state-of-the- and services that directly cater to their Organised by Gulftainer, the world’s art logistics & distribution center to needs and requirements,” he said. largest privately owned independent enable investors to set up businesses port operator, the event was The roundtable was chaired by in any vertical or sector, he added. supported by Sharjah Investment and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Development Authority (Shurooq), Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and and Development Authority, Shurooq, Industry (SCCI), Sharjah Municipality, he rich array of investment potentially lucrative areas of business and attended by ministers from some of akesh Ranjan, Chief Development Sharjah Ports Authority (SPA), opportunities to be leveraged from engagement. the region’s leading economies, Sharjah Officer, and Ashik KP, Senior Sales T R Hamriyah Free Zone and Sharjah effective pan-Arab collaboration was government representatives, UAE- Executive of Hamriyah Free Zone International Airport Free Zone. a pivotal talking point at the Sharjah- The Sharjah-Arab Business Roundtable based Arab investment entities and Authority participated in the Sharjah Arab Business Roundtable hosted discussed areas of potential business councils. Business Summit held on May 17, 2017, Speaking at the event, Rakesh by the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in collaboration between Arab entities, a flagship event which explored the Ranjan pointed out that Sharjah Sharjah) in conjunction with the Jordan with a particular focus on small investment outlook in the emirate of has become a powerful magnet for Business Council and held to identify businesses and the key sectors of Sharjah and showcased logistics and companies and foreign investors. “The areas of partnership that could lead to commerce, real estate and healthcare. mutual benefits for all parties involved Discussing how free zones were the life Development. in investment initiatives. blood of Sharjah’s economy, Saud Salim ICAI annual conference lays emphasis on Representing HFZA at the event were Hamriyah Free Zone Authority was a key Al Mazrouei, Director of Hamriyah Free planning for a better future Ajeeb Moidunni, Head of Business participant at this event that saw the Zone Authority and Sharjah Airport Development Department; Ashik KP, participation of senior consul generals International Free Zone, spoke of how Senior Sales Executive; Geomon George, from across the region and more than the free zones were transforming Business Development Executive; and 100 stakeholders keen to explore themselves into centers of innovation Ruchi Singh, Marketing Executive.

“This year’s conference was designed to help individuals to be better-informed Third edition of IBX recognizes business excellence in the UAE professionals and to recognize and seize future opportunities,” said Ajeeb the variety of high-quality services, Moidunni. “The conference also touched facilities, and logistical support offered on all themes important to the UAE: by Hamriyah Free Zone Authority to Year of Giving, Ministry of Happiness support the growth of businesses and Ministry of Future.” amriyah Free Zone Authority joined inspired the 1,000 plus delegates in the UAE was highlighted through the celebrations marking the 35th present to plan and strategize for a all marketing promotional materials H The 35th Annual Conference of ICAI was Annual Conference of the Institute better future. The event, held from 7th inspired by the revolutionary thinking related to the awards event. of Chartered Accountants of India to 8th April, was inaugurated in Dubai and vision of the UAE’s leaders who A video that was played during the (ICAI) Dubai Chapter held under the by HH Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al have recognized the importance that the course of the event also displayed theme, ‘Future of Future’, as speakers Nahyan, Cabinet Member and UAE future holds for people as individuals, and collectively as global citizens. HFZA’s support for innovation and and dignitaries from across the world Minister of Culture and Knowledge growth, and showed potential investors the ease of setting up business in the Free Zone in less than an hour. www.ungersteel.com ver a record 100 finalists from over business awards, the event also offered HFZA was represented at the event by 20 countries across four continents a rare opportunity for companies across O TV Ramesh, CFO, and Ayaz Tariq, Head • First Steel Fabricator in UAE certified in accordance with: were judged from 8th to 9th May, 2017, the UAE to put their levels of business EN ISO 3834-2:2006, EN 1090-1&2 EXEC 4 of Management Information System at Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach Hotel, at the excellence to the test against some of • Other Certifications include EN ISO 9001, EN ISO 14001 and BS OHSAS 18001 (MIS), who were selected as judges for • Capacity of 40,000 tons of steel construction per year third International Business Excellence the best in the world. • More than 560 employees Awards (IBX), which recognizes business their industry knowledge and category • In-house engineering At this prestigious event that saw specific skillsets to assess this year’s excellence from across the globe. • Hot Dip Galvanizing according to EN ISO 1461 with Presented by the Dubai Department of the participation of national and Awards finalists. They were honored our partner Zinkpower Middle East Economic Development, and said to be international business heads and leaders at the event for their contributions in • Steel Erection where required Unger Steel Middle East FZE, P.O. Box 42251, Hamriyah Free Zone Sharjah, UAE Phone +971/6/5132 555, e-mail: [email protected] Dubai’s most prestigious international of public and private organizations, making the event a success. DELEGATION www.hfza.ae EXPANSION Business Zone July to September 2017 | 11

companies currently operating in the to develop innovative services and to emirate of Sharjah, the Portuguese cater to the growing demand of food delegation were keen to further products in local and regional markets. strengthen trade ties with the Free Zone and take advantage of its “The establishment of the Food Park excellent infrastructure and modern has paved the way for an increasing facilities. number of companies operating in food manufacturing, packaging, The recent launch of the ‘Food Park’, export/import, and distribution the region’s first city dedicated to food industries to expand its presence in and commercial industries, captured the region thereby enabling the UAE’s the interest of the Portuguese delegation. Ajeeb Moidunni explained food sector to remain robust and that the Food Park, spread over a globally competitive,” said Al Mazrouei. total area of more than 11 million sq “The presence of leading trade and Portuguese delegation headed by Filomena Pina Pires with representatives from Hamriyah Free Zone Authority and SCCI ft is aimed at importing, exporting, manufacturing companies at the holding and repackaging foodstuff Food Park has also helped strengthen Portuguese investors briefed on destined for not only the GCC region our international position as a global but for consumption all over the investment haven in the region.” world. HFZA’s dedicated Food Park Eng. Ghada Satti showered praise on The dedicated Food Park is planned amriyah Free Zone Authority Development Department; Cristina the advantages of setting up the new and developed keeping in mind the (HFZA) discussed ways of dela Cueva, Marketing Executive; and gum arabic plant at the Food Park H specific requirements of the food enhancing business opportunities Ruchi Singh, Marketing Executive; met Gum Arabic Gulf Factory to open stating that the good investment industry, he added. “The Food Park between the Free Zone and Portugal with several business stakeholders climate, logistical advantages, consists of an array of prebuilt at a business-to-business roundtable from Portugal and discussed ways US$ 15 million plant in HFZA’s Food Park infrastructural and warehousing warehouses with varied load capacity event organized by the Sharjah of scaling up avenues to expand facilities, sophisticated location, ranging from 50 kW to 150 kW; in- Chamber of Commerce and Industry cooperation for new business amriyah Free Zone Authority Director of Gum Arabic Gulf Factory, in and other value-added services and built offices and other amenities and on 17th May, 2017. opportunities across different (HFZA) has signed a long-term the presence of a number of officials amenities that the dedicated complex facilities, enabling the investors to H verticals in the Free Zone. strategic partnership agreement from both sides. HFZA representatives Ajeeb start their business operations in the offers will benefit the growth of his with Gum Arabic Gulf Factory for the Moidunni, Head of Business With around 600 Portuguese shortest possible time.” Speaking at the signing ceremony, company locally and in new markets establishment of a plant to process Saud Al Mazrouei affirmed that the across the region and beyond. and produce ‘dehydrated gum arabic provision of facilities for investors is a available to start new SMEs and powder’ with an investment value Gum Arabic Gulf Factory is the top priority for HFZA and is in line with Belarus delegation explores industries. of US$ 15 million and a production first factory in the Middle East for the directives of His Highness Sheikh capacity of 8,000 tons per year. processing spray dried gum arabic. This TV Ramesh, Chief Financial Officer, Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, product is used as an amplifier in the investment opportunities at HFZA also emphasized the important The plant will be located on an area Member of the Supreme Council and food industry mainly for soft drinks, role Sharjah and HFZ plays in the of more than 10,000 square meters Ruler of Sharjah, to provide all the juices and gummies; pharmaceuticals; development of smaller-scale at the Free Zone’s ‘Food Park’ - the facilities and infrastructure available manufacturing of cosmetics, inks and businesses in the UAE. “SMEs and region’s first city dedicated to food and to attract qualitative investments into paints. “Globally, consumption of gum medium-sized enterprises choose commercial industries - and built to the emirate. to operate out of HFZ due to their high-tech international specifications. arabic has increased due to its high He added that the establishment of ports, robust infrastructural support, The Sudan-based company will start dietary fiber content which aids in such unique industries within the Food considerably lower establishment its commercial production of gum healthy digestion,” he said. Park at the Free Zone underscores the costs and minimal regulatory arabic and its derivatives in September importance of this flagship project Eng. Ghada Satti added that Sudan hassles,” he said. 2018 through the new plant. that has given a major boost and is the world’s biggest producer of the The Free Zone’s proximity to major The agreement was signed by Saud impetus to the phenomenal growth gum and that most the company’s raw global markets and over 2 billion Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of HFZA of the food sector in the UAE. He said material comes from the traditional consumers have made it one of the and Sharjah Airport International Free that the mega project was part of the rain-fed agricultural areas in western largest industrial free zones in the Zone, and Eng. Ghada Satti, Managing Free Zone’s endeavor and commitment and central Sudan. UAE with over 6500 companies, he added. “HFZA is also recognized Belarusian delegation with the senior management team from Hamriyah Free Zone Authority as the primary hub in the region for Petrochemicals, Oil and Gas, amriyah Free Zone Authority The trade delegation members Maritime, Timber, Construction, Food H(HFZA) recently welcomed a were received by HFZA’s Senior and Perfumery.” trade delegation from the Republic of Management and Sales Team. In The delegation from Belarus also Belarus who sought to explore trade a presentation, Geomon George, toured the Free Zone and expressed Business Development Executive, and investment opportunities in the their satisfaction at the variety of briefed the members on the services, facilities, and logistical region and to strengthen economic projects and activities, facilities support it offers to enable their clients relations between the Free Zone and advantages offered by the Free to start and run their businesses in a and traders from the East European Zone in different investment sectors profitable, safe and environmentally nation. and pointed out the various options responsible manner. CELEBRATION www.hfza.ae CELEBRATION Business Zone July to September 2017 | 13

HFZA hosts annual Iftar gathering for its employees

haring the spirit of the holy month Zone along with other employees This gathering is an annual tradition Sof Ramadan as a family, Hamriyah from across the organization. that HFZA organizes because of its Free Zone Authority (HFZA) hosted According to Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, positive repercussions on productivity, its annual Iftar gathering for its Director of HFZA and Sharjah Airport he added. “It gives us the opportunity employees on 19th June, 2017, at the International Free Zone, “The holy to express our appreciation to our Jawaher Reception & Convention month of Ramadan is another colleagues who are instrumental Centre in Sharjah. opportunity for us to show our in the organization’s success story. appreciation to all our employees The annual event was organized It also helps us to celebrate the who are an integral part of the HFZA to promote social interaction and achievements of the Free Zone and family. Events like the annual Iftar cooperation among the staff across gathering seek to strengthen the the social bonds that are enhanced the HFZA fraternity. spirit of brotherhood and family with during such events leads to a healthy The gathering was attended by the each and every one of our employees working environment filled with senior management team of the Free beyond the concerns of work.” happiness and positivity.” CELEBRATIONAWARD www.hfza.ae SPECIAL COVERAGE Business Zone July to September 2017 | 15

“This prestigious award underscores HFZA bestowed with Arabian our keenness to always excel in our HFZA’s Ramadan Spirit of Giving initiative launched efforts. HFZA provides investors with opening people up to the notion of a range of administrative services Business Excellence Award 2017 giving back to society.” and licenses under one roof as well Media, the UK-based publisher of the as technical support services to There is no other month of the year Middle East Global Markets magazine. facilitate the smooth functioning of in which people are more giving and The esteemed Business Excellence their businesses.” more compassionate than in the Awards were introduced to holy month of Ramadan, he added. “The period of time that separates the acknowledge and reward the “Throughout the year, HFZA seeks investor from setting up his ‘dream exceptional work and the results to instill the spirit of volunteerism company’ is just one hour,” he added. gained by the trailblazers of the and foster a sense of community “And this involves just three steps responsibility in the hearts of our corporate domain, in the face of an -completing the application form at employees.” ever increasing competitive market. the sales counter, paying the fees and “We are proud to have been able to collecting the trade license.” Al Mazrouei also pointed out that the Free Zone carries out several provide our customers with the best Established in 1995, HFZA is Sharjah’s n the spirit of the Year of Giving with others. charitable endeavors in cooperation possible services and facilities that largest free zone and the second (2017) declared by UAE President HH with the Sharjah Charitable Society, have led to establishing Hamriyah largest industrial hub in the UAE. I According to Saud Al Mazrouei, Free Zone as the best business Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and also contributes to a variety The Free Zone houses over 6500 Director of HFZA and Sharjah Airport amriyah Free Zone Authority to promote the culture of giving back of social and humanitarian causes environment for investors through enterprises from 157 countries, (HFZA) was honored with International Free Zone, “HFZA’s throughout the year. H smooth administrative procedures attracting foreign investment from to the community and enhance the the Arabian Business Excellence Ramadan Spirit of Giving initiative is in all services provided,” said Saud more than 500 industry verticals in spirit of volunteering and loyalty to “I hope that the Ramadan Spirit of inspired by the noble values of charity Award 2017 for Best Government Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of the key sectors such as oil and gas, one’s country, Hamriyah Free Zone Giving initiative sends a message Administrative Service in the UAE, Hamriyah Free Zone Authority and petrochemicals, maritime, steel, Authority (HFZA) distributed food and philanthropy that the UAE of love, tolerance and hope from at an event organized by AI Global Sharjah Airport Free Zone Authority. construction and food products. baskets to each of its employees who has espoused since its formation, our employees to the less fortunate were, in turn, encouraged to share it emphasizing the importance of people around us,” he concluded.

of Al Hamriyah Ramadan Club, the HFZA tops the 12th edition of the Hamriyah Financial Director of the Al Hamriyah understanding to recognize the risks Cultural and Sports Club. HFZA employees undergo COSHH and control measures when dealing Culture and Knowledge Tournament with substances hazardous to health. Representing HFZA at the event were Amer Ahmed, Deputy Head training to keep workplace safe Topics covered included classification of Purchase & Supply Department; of substances, routes of entry, Ebrahim Ali, Head of Purchase & common health hazards of specific Supply Department; and Rashid agents, workplace exposure limits, Al Zamar, Manager – Projects control measures and how risk Pursuant. The cultural contest the assessments support the safe use of team members participated in was hazardous substances and the effects in the format of a quiz challenge on of exposure to hazardous substances. questions pertaining to the culture, Apart from the legal regulations arts, life, customs, monuments, of COSHH, the employees also geographical wonders and places of learnt how to identify the hazards, the UAE, amongst other topics. deciding who might be harmed The HFZA team won the coveted and how, evaluating the risks, amriyah Free Zone Authority Culture and Knowledge Tournament first place in the Hamriyah Culture substance substitution, principles H(HFZA) has emerged as the top was held inside the Ramadan Tent set and Knowledge Tournament. The of good control practice, hierarchy winner at a cultural and knowledge up in Hamriyah Park 1 in the presence second spot in the tournament went of control measures, work processes contest organized by the Cultural and of His Excellency Mubarak Rashid to Al Hamriyah Cultural and Sports and equipment, personal protective Social committee of the Al Hamriyah Al Shamsi, Director of Al Hamriyah Club while the Al Hamriyah Team equipment, safe systems of work and Cultural and Sports Club on 14th June, Municipality and His Excellency Majed consisting of the residents of the the provision of first aid. amriyah Free Zone Authority for storing, using, handling or 2017. The 12th edition of the Hamriyah Saeed Al Muhairi, Board Member town bagged the third prize. Hemployees Syed Bari, Shafeeq transporting hazardous substances, Sha, Sham Saju, Sivaraman, Prashant particularly those involved with Moses and Shatha Al Shamsi manufacturing, cleaning, healthcare, participated in a chemical safety transport, utilities or offices. training course in May 2017 titled For the HFZA employees who ‘Control of substances hazardous to received the training, the course health (COSHH)’ to equip themselves will help them to ensure that the with an understanding of how businesses operating at the Free substances can harm health. Zone complies with chemical safety Suitable for employees in all industry regulations. Following the training, sectors, the COSHH training is HFZA employees were armed ideal for anyone with responsibility with the knowledge, skills and www.amwajgroup.com SPECIAL COVERAGE www.hfza.ae MARKET Business Zone July to September 2017 | 17

achievement, he added. “Culture, on the other hand, is a powerful tool to build bridges between people, including the young and the old, and it can play a crucial role in strengthening relationships between organizations and the public and private sectors,” said Al Mazrouei. “It can also be an engine for social development as it is based on peace, freedom of expression, mutual understanding and respect for fundamental values.” During the discussion, Al Mazrouei also expressed the keenness of Hamriyah Free Zone Authority to take part in HFZA discusses areas of mutual the different cultural, sports and social events, and to deepen the social cooperation with Al Hamriyah Club partnerships between the Authority aud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director that have a unique way of making a and the public and private entities in the ARADA poised to benefit from uplift in Sharjah real estate market Sof Hamriyah Free Zone Authority positive impact on society,” said Al region. He added that such activities of (HFZA) and Sharjah Airport Mazrouei. “I believe these have to be mutual cooperation fall in line with the International Free Zone (SAIF ZONE), ingrained in our daily lives from an early goals of the Free Zone’s strategic plan RADA, the UAE’s newest developer, around the Gulf in the second half of be completed by the end of 2018. to engage with the community on a is taking full advantage of the this year to build on the momentum met with HE Jumaa Obaid Al Shamsi, age.” A Ideally located next to the upcoming Chairman of Al Hamriyah Cultural deeper level. upswing in Sharjah’s residential market we have already generated at Nasma Sports not only contributes to Tilal Mall and Sharjah Convention and Sports Club to discuss mutual as it continues to post strong sales at Residences.” community identity but is also an Engaging citizens in both sporting and Center, Nasma Residences will feature cooperation between the two entities its record-breaking community, Nasma amazing tool for people - irrespective of cultural activities is a major resource Radaideh’s assessment has been a 13-hectare landscaped park, a in the fields of sports, culture and Residences. their age, gender and socio-economic for strengthening municipalities and backed up by property agency community mall, and an international community development. background - to serve as a focal point communities and for developing market The first phase of Nasma Residences, Cluttons’ most recent market snapshot, school, as well as a fully serviced club- “Sports and culture are two elements for engagement, community pride, and opportunities, he added. an 800 villa and townhouse project published in July, which showed that house, medical clinic and mosque. located adjacent to Emirates Road, villa rents in the emirate rose by 11.7% ARADA, which launched in January this sold out a month after its launch in in the first half of this year, the first year, is chaired by HE Sheikh Sultan March, with both investors and end increase since late 2015. bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, with HRH Prince users flocking to purchase their homes “Demand for villas [in Sharjah] is likely to Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal serving in Sharjah’s fastest-selling residential continue to rise, fuelled by the relative as Vice Chairman. community. affordability of homes compared to The company’s focus is on “creating “The exceptional sales results we have those in Dubai, which in turn will remain communities” in the mid-market sector, seen so far reflect our view that there a key catalyst behind the multitude of and Nasma Residences is devoted is huge pent-up demand in Sharjah mixed-use freehold projects bubbling to fulfilling the growing consumer for the kind of full-service community through,” the Cluttons report stated. need for aspirational yet affordable that Nasma Residences provides,” The launch of Phase 2 of Nasma living communities in Sharjah. The said Mahmoud Radaideh, Senior Vice Residences took place in May 2017, aesthetically designed homes will President – Sales for ARADA. with ARADA introducing four and five- marry form and function and be built “I’m delighted that ARADA is delivering bedroom signature villas to the array of with careful workmanship to ensure on its promise to support the Sharjah townhouses and semi-detached villas quality delivery. The development government’s vision to position the already on offer in Phase 1. Ground- will expand over 5,000,000 sq. ft. of real estate sector as a core part of the breaking on the project is expected to land area carefully planned to ensure emirate’s economy. In addition, we look take place in August this year, with work a balance between living areas and forward to reaching out to new markets on the entire community scheduled to community facilities. SHARJAH BEAT www.hfza.ae SHARJAH BEAT Business Zone July to September 2017 | 19

he Child Safety Campaign, an Sharjah named World Book Capital 2019 Tinitiative of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, SCFA, and of which, Hamriyah Free Zone Authority is a Sharjah Child Safety harjah has been named the ‘World and UNESCO. The committee cited momentous project that was sponsor, has launched the ‘Strap them SBook Capital’ for 2019 by United the innovative, comprehensive and established four decades ago by the Safe’ initiative to raise awareness Campaign teaches Nations Educational, Scientific and inclusive nature of Sharjah’s reading vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. among parents on the importance of Cultural Organization (UNESCO). and publishing programs, including Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, car safety for their children, through motorists about its community-focused activities and Member of the Supreme Council and the use of seatbelts and car seats. The honor is in recognition of efforts to engage both citizens and Ruler of Sharjah,” she added. The new initiative under the third importance of seatbelts; the emirate’s pioneering role in foreign residents in its promotions. supporting and expanding the local Sharjah has also launched crucial edition of the campaign was launched and regional publishing industries, The accolade is an important addition initiatives and pilot projects to achieve under the patronage and directives of spreads awareness of HH Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed promoting reading to become an to Sharjah’s existing portfolio of its vision to promote maximum Al Qasimi, wife of His Highness Ruler intrinsic cultural practice, as well as milestones like Capital of Arab Culture community involvement in reading. online dangers of Sharjah, and Chairperson of SCFA, embracing intercultural, knowledge- (1998), Capital of Islamic Culture Knowledge without Borders (KwB) in collaboration with Sharjah Police based dialogue. The announcement (2014) and Capital of Arab Tourism is one such example, which has Headquarters, and FUNN, the Sharjah- (2015). More so, the emirate is the first established free home libraries for organized two awareness workshops cyber deception, cyber stalking and also adds further weight to Sharjah’s based organization dedicated to in the GCC and third in the Arab world 42,000 Emirati families last year. under the theme, ‘Child Safety in Cyber mistakes that can lead to the hacking efforts to establish a global book helping younger generations become Space’ for parents to advise them on and Middle East to have received this of data through their smart devices. publishing hub at its purpose-built engaged in media arts. how they can protect their children recognition. Sheikha Bodour launched the ‘Kitabi Al The sessions also educated parents on ‘Sharjah Publishing City’, which has Awal’ (My First Book) initiative, which from the negative aspects of smart the methods and techniques that can already received an overwhelming According to new regulations, all Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, aimed to develop a love for books and device usage. The workshops, titled be used to encounter these risks, as drivers and passengers must fasten response from publishers. President of the Emirates Publishers stories among new-borns. Under the ‘How to Protect Your Children against well as the best ways to protect smart their seatbelts, and children under the the Dangers of Smart Devices’, took Association, Head of Sharjah’s World initiative 5,000 book hampers were devices. Announced in Paris in June 2017, age of four should be provided with Book Capital Organizing Committee, gifted to expectant mothers across place at the and Khorfakkan Sharjah will be the 19th city to be named car seats. Fines are now being levied said: “We are so proud to have been more than 60 healthcare centers and Children’s centers, held in conjunction The third edition of the Child Safety UNESCO World Book Capital, following for failure to comply with the new with the Telecommunications recognized on a global scale for literary medical clinics in the UAE. Campaign has a special focus on cyber Athens in 2018. Cities are chosen legislation. Regulatory Authority, TRA. excellence, and having our name being security for children, in view of the by UNESCO’s World Book Capital Sharjah’s year as UNESCO World Book proliferation of potentially dangerous put on the same platform with some of “The ‘Strap them Safe’ initiative seeks According to Hanadi Saleh Al Yafei, advisory committee which includes Capital will officially begin on 23 April websites that children can readily the world’s frontrunners in the world of to raise awareness of the importance “These workshops are in alignment representatives from the International 2019, the United Nations World Book and easily access. ‘Child Safety in books and reading. of providing children with special belt- with our dedication to achieving the and Copyright Day, under the theme of Cyberspace’ targets children, parents, Federation of Library Associations, the positioning booster seats, ensuring objectives of the third phase of the “This signals a fruition of the ‘Read – You are in Sharjah’. International Publisher’s Association their seatbelts are fastened and that Child Safety Campaign. The sessions teachers and experts, and seeks to they are in the back seat of the vehicle will educate parents on the risks their promote the vital role played by to reduce the risk of injuries in case of children can face when they use smart community organizations to protect accidents. Through this initiative, we devices and social media, particularly children from social media hazards, hope to promote collaboration on this in instances of lack of proper and ensure they are safe online. vital safety message, on both a federal instruction and guidance.” The Child Safety Campaign was and local level,” said Hanadi Saleh Al launched in 2015 to promote awareness Yafei, Department Director at SCFA Facilitating the workshops was and Head of the Organizing Committee Engineer Abdulaziz Al Zarooni from the about children’s safety, protection, and of the Child Safety Campaign. TRA, who addressed the dangers that social stability to ensure children are children and youth face when browsing physically and psychologically healthy, In April this year, the campaign also the Internet, including cyber blackmail, and live in stable family environments. SHARJAH BEAT www.hfza.ae SHARJAH BEAT Business Zone July to September 2017 | 21

full support, advocacy and solidarity in the system. Since they were initially and most importantly, we need to look introduced nine months ago, the gates for practical and effective solutions have helped speed up the procedures, that empower them to engage with cut waiting time and reduce congestion. the educational process in the same way as their sighted peers,” Al Mazmi Commenting on the seamless services, added. Ali Salim Al Midfa, SAA Chairman, said, “The smart gates have proven “If we examine the ‘differently-abled’ to reduce the passenger rush during publishing sector, we can see that there peak hours, ensuring a smooth travel is a lack of suitable material for those experience. Passengers are now able with visual problems. This is why we to complete passport control within decided to launch this initiative during 20 seconds. This facility is part of the SCRF, as the festival brings together airport’s strategy which focuses on educators, experts and publishers of making travel easier for all passengers children’s literature who can partner by providing the best internationally with us and contribute to supporting kids who need dedicated educational recognized services”. methodologies and systems,” she The launch of the smart gates is part concluded. Sharjah initiative to help Over 850,000 passengers pass through of a series of development projects Following the launch of ‘Ara’ in April, carried out by the airport to address the Kalimat Foundation donated 150 Sharjah Airport’s smart gates in nine months the increasing growth in the number of visually-impaired read audio, braille and large print books passengers which comes as a result of to visually impaired students at the ore than 850,000 passengers sophisticated and seamless services the growing tourist flows and business Abdullah Ibn Umm Maktum School in Mhave passed through the smart provided by SAA as part of its activities in the emirate of Sharjah. amriyah Free Zone Authority we as a community can meet these the Jordan capital, Amman. gates of the Sharjah International continued efforts to contribute to the Meanwhile, passenger traffic grew by 3 has extended its wholehearted challenges through the provision development of the aviation sector in percent at Sharjah International Airport H The donation comes in line with KF’s Airport, during the period from October support to ‘Ara’, an initiative launched of special reading and educational the UAE. during the last quarter, as the airport vision to promote the role of children 2016 through June 2017, according to by the Kalimat Foundation for materials designed specifically for handled 2.75 million passengers during with special needs and is in line with the Sharjah Airport Authority, SAA. Children’s Empowerment, to promote visually impaired children,” said Amna The gates use a highly efficient, quick April, May and June, compared with the ‘Year of Giving 2017’, as declared by There are a total of 16 smart gates at awareness about children who are Al Mazmi, Manager of the Foundation. and accurate system that read and 2.66 million during the same period UAE President HH Sheikh Khalifa bin visually impaired and live with sight the airport’s department and arrival scan passport information, capturing of 2016. Overall, Sharjah handled 5.5 Zayed Al Nahyan. deficiency. “Statistics indicate that there are 22 terminals, through which the travelers biometric data using a high-accuracy million passengers during the first half million people with visual problems in The initiative aimed to gain a closer view can get through passport control camera and comparing the information of 2017, about 3 percent higher than “This initiative, by the Sharjah-based the MENA region, with the majority of non-profit children’s organization, of children’s abilities and their needs within 20 seconds, which reflects the given, with the passenger details saved the first half of 2016. these being children. One of the main for learning materials and sources of encourages all segments of society challenges they face is in the area of knowledge - a move that comes as to support the education of those education because of a paucity of part of KF’s efforts to strengthen its with special challenges,” said Saud suitable material that enables them channels of communication with all Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of HFZA to read. These young people need our relevant bodies in Arab countries. and Sharjah Airport International Free Zone. Sharjah to host

Launched during the ninth edition of the Sharjah Children’s Reading International Festival, SCRF 2017, ‘Ara’ sought to highlight the experience of the visually Organization impaired and bring attention to the ways in which they perceive the world around them. The ‘Ara’ initiative will of Folk Art’s be distributing 30,000 copies of a collection of selected books which are divided into three categories: large regional office print, audio books and Braille books.

“We have launched the ‘Ara’ initiative in line with the directives of Sheikha came in recognition of the culture and Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, he emirate of Sharjah is preparing 18 of which are in Arab nations. Founder of the Kalimat Foundation to open the regional office of the heritage of Sharjah and the leading T The nomination of the emirate of for Children’s Empowerment, through International Organization of Folk role played by H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan Sharjah to host the regional office bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme which we aim to highlight the Art, IOV, in the Middle East and North challenges facing children with visual came during the meeting of the Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, Africa region, as a new building is being impairment, including total loss of Executive Council of the IOV, held last in promoting cultural activities and sight. We also want to show how built and equipped to manage the March in Manama, the capital of the supporting research in the field of folk organization’s branches in 21 countries, Kingdom of Bahrain. The nomination culture. SHARJAH BEAT www.hfza.ae Business Zone July to September 2017 | 23

Cultural fiesta marks 15th Sharjah Heritage Days; attracts over 350,000 visitors from over 30 countries

raditional folk dance, a of traditions and culture. In addition, Spanning over 19 days, the event covered Tperformance by stand-up more than 24 folk dance groups from a wide range of activities, ranging from a comedians and a story-telling session across the UAE, MENA region and cultural cafe, folk performances, reading rung down the curtains of the 15th around the globe participated in the sessions for children, story-telling edition of the Sharjah Heritage Days, 15th edition of the Sharjah Heritage activities, educational tours, interactive sessions, panel discussions, quizzes and which saw 350,000 visitors from Days.” more than 30 countries attending the an award, among many others. cultural extravaganza, held under the The festival, themed ‘Heritage – Al Musallam said the event was an directives of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan Structure and Denotation’, was effort to highlight not just the rich bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme inaugurated on 4th April by HH Dr. Emirati culture, “but to also bring to Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al focus cultures from around the world. Qasimi, Supreme Council Member Conceptualized and organized with the The rich heritage and culture not only aim of reviving endangered folk arts, and Ruler of Sharjah in the Heart of reflect the cultural and social diversity crafts and music, as well as to promote Sharjah district. of our communities, but they also make and safeguard cultural heritage, the visitors feel a sense of home and a Besides Sharjah city, the latest main thrust of the 19-day festival close connection to their heritage and edition of Sharjah Heritage Days was was the focus on cultural integration tradition. This year’s edition has ended also held in the towns of , highlighting the contribution of people on a high note, and we are confident in building the future. More than 150 Al , Maliha, , Kalba, that in the coming years it will just get volunteers from the UAE extended and other parts of the emirate. better.” their co-operation to 29 committees, assisting in helping to forge closer ties between nations and promote cultural legacy.

“The cultural festival has received great support over the past few years. However, the love and affection of the people this year has been inspirational,” said Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage. “This year, the cultural event witnessed the participation of more than 200 youth entrepreneurs who showcased arts and crafts, traditional costumes, food stations and other various forms www.hfza.ae