Latest news with #SharjahFinanceDepartment
Sharjah 24
a day ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Public Finance Award hosts Public Debt Management Forum
The forum, titled "Managing Public Debt in a Changing World – Sustainable Strategies to Address Global Economic Challenges," aimed to exchange knowledge, experiences, and best practices in the field of public finance among participating countries. This initiative seeks to strengthen the ability of these nations to tackle contemporary financial challenges. The forum featured a distinguished group of experts and officials who discussed the latest trends in public finance and highlighted government success stories in managing public debt, thereby fostering collaboration among nations to overcome financial challenges and enhance government financial performance. The event was attended by His Excellency Waleed Al Sayegh, Director General of Sharjah Finance Department (SFD) and Member of the Board of Trustees; His Excellency Sheikh Rashid bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Secretary-General of the Award and Director of the Sharjah Finance Department; His Excellency Dr Nasser Al-Hatlan Al-Qahtani, Director General of the Arab Organisation for Administrative Development – League of Arab States, alongside ministers, government officials, and numerous speakers and participants from Turkey, the host country, as well as representatives from ministries of finance, public debt departments, banks, financial organizations, and international experts from Arab and other countries involved in the forum and the award. A platform for excellence In his keynote address, His Excellency Sheikh Rashid bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Secretary-General of the Award and Director of the Sharjah Finance Department, emphasized the importance of fostering Arab cooperation in public finance in light of the increasing global economic challenges. He stated that the forum served as an ideal platform for exchanging knowledge and best practices between Arab nations and sharing success stories in managing public debt and achieving financial leadership. His Excellency expressed his delight at the forum's success, noting that reviewing government success stories in managing public debt reflects the commitment to developing government financial performance and adapting to rapid economic changes. This contributes to enhancing transparency and efficiency in managing financial resources. He added, 'The Sharjah Public Finance Award, by recognizing distinguished efforts, represents an incentive for governmental bodies and individuals in the Arab world to achieve the highest standards of excellence in public finance, aligning with the sustainable development goals and developing financial strategies.' He also highlighted that the award provides an opportunity to honor efforts that elevate government financial work and promote higher levels of transparency and professionalism. The award will inspire both individuals and institutions in the UAE and the Arab world to achieve greater success and excellence in public finance, contributing to comprehensive development and economic prosperity. Furthermore, it will encourage many countries participating in the forum to strive for excellence in their financial institutions, fostering sustainable development goals and innovative solutions to tackle public debt challenges in an evolving global environment. Strengthening cooperation for a sustainable financial future His Excellency Dr Nasser Al Hatlan Al Qahtani, Director General of ARADO and Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees, emphasized that the forum addresses multiple economic challenges faced by countries, especially those in need of continuous support. He noted that the Sharjah Public Finance Award and its partnership with the Arab Organization for Administrative Development exemplifies a model for achieving excellence in public finance to confront these challenges. The forum aims to improve government financial performance and support national economies through a financial environment characterized by efficiency and sustainability. Dr Al-Hatlan Al-Qahtani expressed, 'We look forward to continuing this forum as a platform for encouraging innovation and excellence in public finance and strengthening financial cooperation between Arab countries and participating nations. This collaboration will help realize the financial aspirations of governments and their developmental goals.' He also explained the organization's role in managing various Arab awards and its capacity-building and developmental role in organizing events and activities that contribute to enhancing government work across Arab countries. Dr Al-Hatlan affirmed that these financial events will continue on the sidelines of the Award, stimulating participants to contribute positively to developing government financial work in the Arab world. Forum sessions The forum's activities began with an introduction to the Sharjah Public Finance Award and opening remarks. This was followed by the forum's main session, which featured speeches by His Excellency Yasser Sobhi, Deputy Minister of Finance of Egypt; His Excellency Dr Mahmoud Mohieddin, Special Envoy of the UN on Financing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development; His Excellency Dr Mohamed Maait, Executive Director and Representative of the Arab and Maldives Group at the IMF; and Dr Abdullah Khaled bin Rabian, Financial and Economic Consultant from Saudi Arabia. The speakers discussed advanced strategies for managing public debt and the factors impacting sustainability in light of the changing economic landscape, offering practical solutions for successful public debt management. The session was moderated by Dr Nasser Al-Hatlan Al-Qahtani. The forum's program also featured discussions on successful public debt management projects by some Arab governments and Sharjah, along with dealing with the economic challenges of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states. Several key topics were covered, addressing challenges related to geopolitical shifts, the return of nationalism, trade wars, inflation, and chronic debt. A number of experts, specialists, and researchers presented papers on public debt management and public finance, and Dr Hassan Diab delivered the forum's concluding statement.
Sharjah 24
26-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Mohammed bin Saud honours Sharjah Public Finance Award winners
The event witnessed the presence of ministers, undersecretaries, directors general of the winning Arab government entities, senior officials from local departments, representatives from the UAE's financial sector, participants from various Arab countries, and the award's valued partners and sponsors. The ceremony opened with the UAE national anthem, followed by a recitation from the Holy Quran. Attendees then viewed an introductory video showcasing the award's objectives, developmental milestones, and its growing regional impact across the Arab world. Financial excellence: A development imperative In his opening address, His Excellency Salem Youssef Al Qaseer, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, stated: 'What we are witnessing today is not merely a recognition ceremony, but a reflection of the Arab region's growing institutional maturity. Financial excellence is no longer a luxury—it is a developmental necessity and a tool for shaping the future. Today, we celebrate exceptional achievements and visionary Arab professionals who are setting a new standard in public finance—anchored in efficiency, transparency, accountability, and continuous innovation.' He further noted that the third edition of the award saw robust participation from 11 Arab countries—including Egypt, Palestine, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iraq, Tunisia, Kuwait, Morocco, Yemen, Mauritania, and Oman—as well as UAE federal and local entities from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Ras Al Khaimah. Their initiatives reflected genuine efforts to enhance public financial performance and adopt governance and sustainability best practices. Al Qaseer emphasized that the true value of the award lies not only in winning but in the institutional transformation it fosters—encouraging entities to review internal systems, enhance financial tools, and improve spending efficiency. Sharjah's vision for regional financial governance His Excellency Sheikh Rashid bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Secretary-General of the Award and Director of the Sharjah Finance Department, affirmed during his speech: 'Since its inception, the award has carried a noble message: to promote excellence and instill a culture of innovation in public financial management across the Arab world, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.' He added that the award's general secretariat has embraced this strategic vision by developing a comprehensive operational framework—starting with submission and screening, through to evaluation in partnership with the Arab Administrative Development Organization (ARADO)—based on strict transparency and objectivity criteria. He highlighted a major development in the third edition: the introduction of six new categories, bringing the total to 22 categories (11 institutional and 11 individual), reflecting the growing scope of the award and its alignment with the evolving needs of public financial institutions and professionals. A unified Arab vision for financial excellence Speaking on behalf of the Arab Administrative Development Organization, His Excellency Dr Nasser Al Hatlan Al Qahtani, Director General of ARADO and Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees, described the award as a powerful model of unified Arab intent to strengthen public financial governance. 'This strategic partnership with the award reinforces our joint mission to equip Arab governments with tools of excellence and sustainable development, aligned with global best practices and regional contexts,' he said. Dr Al Qahtani noted the award's role in fostering positive competition, embedding a culture of quality, and encouraging innovation in financial planning and resource management. He commended the third edition's submissions for their analytical depth, geographic diversity, and pioneering spirit. Honouring the winners His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi honoured a wide array of institutional and individual winners during the ceremony. Among the Institutional Awards, the "Outstanding Public Finance Entity" award was presented to Al Ain Municipality (UAE) and Greater Amman Municipality (Jordan). Dubai Police (UAE) received the award for "Outstanding Financial Systems & Applications." The "Outstanding Financial Project Management" award went to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Saudi Arabia) and the Directorate of Financial Affairs, Ministry of Education (Iraq). The Federal Tax Authority (UAE) was recognised for "Innovation in Public Finance," while the General Financial Control Authority, Ministry of Finance (Tunisia), received the award for "Financial Control & Risk Management." Dubai Department of Finance (UAE) and the Ministry of Finance (Kuwait) were honoured for "Financial Service Delivery." The "Procurement & Contracts Management" award was given to Ras Al Khaimah Police (UAE). The Ministry of Finance (UAE) won for "Cash & Sovereign Funds Management," and the National Social Insurance Authority (Egypt) was awarded for "Social Security Fund Management." The "Financial Sustainability" award went to the New and Renewable Energy Development Authority (Egypt). In the Individual Awards, the "Outstanding Arab Financial Sector Leader" award was presented to Mohammed bin Abdul Latif Al Huzami (Saudi Arabia), Anwar Abdel Jabbar (Palestine), and Jalal Hamimo (Morocco). The "Outstanding Arab CFO" award went to Nouf Al-Fuhaidi (Qatar), Amina Al-Shamsi (UAE), and Amina Al-Enzan (Qatar). The "Outstanding Financial Expert" award was granted to Noufel Al-Nasri (Morocco), Moaz Al-Saliti (Tunisia), and Haitham Al-Aqrabawi (UAE). Recognised as "Outstanding Financial Researchers" were Mohammed Adnan Zaid (Palestine), Al-Hassan Kotb Abdel Rahman (Egypt), and Mohammed Abragh (Morocco). In the category of "Outstanding Budget Director," winners included Hassan Bosna (Saudi Arabia), Salem Al-Abdulrazzaq (Kuwait), and Zuhair Rahmouni (Tunisia). Saida Qaddoumi (UAE) received the award for "Outstanding Tax Director." The "Outstanding Accounts Manager" award went to Nermine Mohamed (Palestine), Dr. Heba Sabir (Egypt), and Dr. Hanan Abu El-Maati (Egypt). Honoured as "Outstanding Financial Systems Managers" were Ahmed Al-Jawadeh (Jordan), Amina bin Lutah (UAE), and Hazem Riyad (Palestine). The "Outstanding Procurement & Contracts Manager" award was given to Sulaiman Abdullah (UAE), Mohamed Hosni Mustafa (Palestine), and Mona Al-Maadawi (Egypt). Amina Al-Mandous (UAE), Hussein Al-Abdoli (Dubai), and Alaa Al-Khatib (Jordan) received the award for "Outstanding Section Head / Mid-level Leader." The "Outstanding Financial Auditor" award was presented to Nazem Qeiza (Tunisia), Sabira Nasib (Egypt), and Yazan Al-Shubailat (Jordan). Finally, the "Outstanding Financial Accountant" award went to Areej Tayseer Taim (Jordan), Mohamed Yousry Khalifa (Egypt), and Amina Al-Balushi (Dubai). A regional platform for financial governance excellence Launched in 2018, the Sharjah Public Finance Award is a pioneering Arab initiative that aims to foster a culture of excellence in public sector financial management. It seeks to create a unified Arab identity in financial governance—rooted in transparency, efficiency, and innovation. As a leading Arab award in its field, it champions the adoption of high-performance standards in public finance, promotes best practices, and supports institutional transformation across the Arab world through a rigorous, transparent, and impartial evaluation framework.
Sharjah 24
23-04-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SFD Launches AI-Powered 'Shj3' Virtual Assistant
'Shj3' platform marks a major leap in the digital transformation of Sharjah's financial systems, aiming to provide secure, efficient, and user-friendly support and payment services for individuals and businesses through multiple 'Tahseel' channels—saving both time and effort for all users. The launch ceremony was held at the SFD's headquarters in the presence of His Excellency Sheikh Rashid bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Finance Department, Huda Al Yassi, Director of the Financial Systems Department, along with SFD heads, specialists, and a number of staff members. His Excellency Sheikh Rashid bin Saqr Al Qasimi emphasised that the launch of 'Shj3' reflects the SFD's future-forward vision to build an intelligent financial environment powered by cutting-edge AI technologies. 'This initiative simplifies financial processes, reduces transaction time, and enhances transparency in government services. It reinforces Sharjah's position as a leading city in adopting smart, digital solutions and opens new horizons for improving the user journey while achieving seamless integration between financial systems and smart platforms to boost operational efficiency and service quality.' "Shj3": A name inspired by Sharjah's strategic identity His Excellency Sheikh Rashid further explained that the platform's name, 'Shj3', was carefully chosen to reflect Sharjah's digital identity: 'Shj' stands for Sharjah, and the number '3' symbolises the emirate's strategic economic and geographic dimensions. Sharjah hosts three major seaports and covers approximately 3.3% of the UAE's total area, underscoring its role as a key economic hub in the region. The name reinforces the Department's commitment to aligning smart services with institutional identity and real-world relevance. A transformative step in financial services Huda Al Yassi, Director of the Financial Systems Department, noted: 'The 'Shj3' platform represents a transformative step in the delivery of financial services. It offers a fully digital experience built on artificial intelligence and operational flexibility, tailored to meet the expectations of a wide range of users. This project reflects our strategic focus on strengthening digital infrastructure and employing technology to support sustainable development. Smart transformation is no longer optional—it is essential to enhancing performance and positioning Sharjah as a leader in financial innovation across the region.' Smart services for individuals and businesses 'Shj3' offers a broad spectrum of digital services that cater to individuals and businesses. For individuals, the platform enables account creation, refund requests, e-wallet top-ups, and transaction payments. For corporate users, services include 'Tahseel' card requests, contact detail updates, account creation, and streamlined payments—delivered through an intuitive and responsive user interface. Tailored services for the freight and logistics sector The platform also addresses the specific needs of the trucking and logistics sector, offering tailored services such as truck card requests, postpaid transaction options, driver access requests, wallet top-ups, refund management, and real-time transaction tracking. These services empower the sector with greater control over financial transactions and operational flexibility, all through a secure digital environment. 24/7 technical support 'Shj3' ensures uninterrupted technical assistance and advisory services through its virtual assistant. Users benefit from around-the-clock support for resolving technical issues, answering queries, and ensuring a smooth, reliable digital experience beyond financial transactions.
Sharjah 24
31-03-2025
- Politics
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Ruler receives Eid well-wishers
His Highness was congratulated by sheikhs, senior officials, Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi, and many others, including dignitaries, local leaders, citizens, and residents, on this important religious occasion. Heartfelt congratulations and warmest wishes People shared their heartfelt congratulations and warm wishes for Eid al-Fitr, a significant holiday for Muslims. They prayed for good health and happiness for their leader, for ongoing growth and success in the UAE, and for blessings and prosperity for Arab and Islamic nations. Notable turnout The reception was attended by: Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Finance Department; Sheikh Khaled bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ports, Customs, and Free Zones Authority; Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ruler's Office; Sheikh Saud bin Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Director General of the Sharjah Digital Department; Sheikh Sultan bin Abdullah bin Salem Al Qasimi, Director of the Sharjah Department of Statistics and Community Development; Abdul Rahman bin Mohammed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Prevention; Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council; Rashid Ahmed bin Sheikh, Chairman of Al Diwan Al Amiri; and a number of senior officials, heads and directors of government departments.
Gulf Today
25-03-2025
- Sport
- Gulf Today
Sheikh Hasher crowns winners of Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship
The 22nd edition of the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship (DIAHC), one of the most prestigious competitions in the world showcasing the unparalleled elegance and grace of purebred Arabian horses, concluded at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The three-day championship was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. DIAHC took place at the Zabeel Halls 7 and 8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre and witnessed fierce competition across various categories, showcasing the finest Arabian horses from renowned studs and breeders. With a staggering prize pool of $4 million, the championship attracted horses from eight nations. Sheikh Hasher Bin Maktoum Bin Juma Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Media Incorporated, gave prizes to the winners in the presence of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Finance Department; Sheikh Abdullah Bin Majid Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club; Ziad Khaldari, Head of the Supreme Organizing Committee; Dr. Ghanem Al Hajri, Secretary-General of the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation; Engineer Mohammed Al Tawhidi, Director General of Dubai Arabian Horse Stud; Adel Afalasi, DIAHC Executive Manager; and other dignitaries. Dubai Arabian Horse Stud's D Neeran took top spot in the Yearling Fillies Championship, earning a remarkable 40 points. Her flawless performance left the judges in awe, securing her the gold medal. Ajeebah Al Bidayer, with her exceptional poise, earned the silver medal, while SQ Ghandoura took home the bronze. The Junior Fillies Championship was equally captivating, and Vivia SB, a filly owned by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Saud Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, finished on top. Second place went to Nayla Hayek's Iman SVB, while Dubai Arabian Horse Stud's D Rowa came third. In the Senior Mares Championship, the competition reached new heights. Irvinna Al Shiraa, under the colours of Sheikha Fatima Bint Hazza Bin Zayed Al Nahyan's Al Shira'aa Stables, took gold with a score of 36 points. Irvinna Al Shiraa impressed the judges with her regal presence and exceptional beauty. Al Fahad Mas from Al Jumail Stud, owned by Faisal Al Kubaisi, stole the show in the Yearling Colts Championship. Sultan Mohammed Khalifa Al Yahyaee's S.S. Misk settled for silver, while Fam Vortex took the bronze. The Junior Colts Championship saw fierce competition, and D Borkan from Dubai Arabian Horse Stud finished on top, with a score of 38 points. Azzaam Al Amal followed closely, winning the silver, while AJ Sayer earned the bronze. E.S. Harir, owned by Al Saqran Arabian Horse Stud, claimed the gold in the Senior Stallions Championship, earning a flawless 40 points and leaving the competition in awe. The silver medal went to EKS Sirajj, whose refined elegance made him a formidable challenger. His performance was a stunning display of grace, but even his extraordinary poise couldn't match the brilliance of E.S. Harir. Ziad Galadari, chairman of the championship's organizing committee, expressed his gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed for his unwavering support of the event. He highlighted the efforts of all the technical and organizational committees, whose collective dedication ensured the success of the 22nd edition of the event, held during Ramadan for the second consecutive year. Qusai Obaidalla, Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship Director and Board Member, emphasized the resounding success of this edition, which witnessed a remarkable turnout, with the participation of 124 of the finest horses from across the globe. He also underscored the exceptional local involvement, which served to elevate the level of competition, reflecting an unparalleled standard of excellence across all categories. Alongside the UAE, horses from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Egypt, Brazil, Poland, Switzerland, and Uruguay, participated in the Dubai International Arabian Horse Championship. More than just a competition, this exceptional event celebrates centuries of passion, skill, and unwavering dedication from breeders who have tirelessly preserved and elevated the lineage of the Arabian breed.
