The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) held its SCCI Youth Forum to mark International Youth Day. The event, organised by the SCCI Youth Council, focused on the role of youth in driving economic transformation. It also explored emerging opportunities in innovation and digitalisation.

The forum was held in cooperation with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) Youth Council. Its theme was “Partners in Shaping the Future Economy.” As a result, the event highlighted the strategic role of artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming the economic landscape. It also examined ways to equip young people to leverage AI-driven opportunities in entrepreneurship and innovation.

In addition, discussions addressed the importance of digital security and AI governance in supporting economic growth. Furthermore, speakers underscored the role of public-private partnerships in empowering youth and accelerating digital transformation.

The forum took place at SCCI headquarters. Notable attendees included Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of SCCI, and Sheikh Saud bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of Sharjah Digital Department (SDD). Also present were Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Mulla, Director General of the Federal Tax Authority (FTA), Mohammad Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director General of SCCI, and Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Business Sector at SCCI.

Additionally, representatives from the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA), the Sharjah Police General Command, and the Federal Tax Authority attended. A group of young leaders and entrepreneurs also joined the event.

Speaking at the forum, Mohammad Ahmed Amin Al Awadi said investing in young people’s capabilities, knowledge, and skills is the most important investment in building the future economy. He added that this strengthens the UAE’s position as a global centre for innovation and competitiveness.

“The forum brought together young talents, specialists, and decision-makers to address one of the defining forces shaping the global economic landscape, namely the growing role of artificial intelligence in reshaping the business environment and unlocking new economic opportunities,” he said.

Moreover, Al Awadi noted that the forum’s observance of International Youth Day reflects the UAE’s forward-looking vision. This vision, he explained, places youth at the heart of its development agenda. It also recognises them as key partners and principal drivers of innovation and competitiveness.

Meanwhile, Abdulaziz Mohammed Al Mulla said the UAE’s development vision places youth at its core. According to him, this positions them as strategic partners in shaping the future economy.

He further noted that the rapid evolution of AI technologies and digital transformation makes it essential to empower young people. Specifically, they need the knowledge, skills, and opportunities required to lead and contribute to this changing landscape.

“Innovation and digital transformation are fundamental to developing government services, enhancing operational efficiency, and delivering more seamless and reliable customer experiences. The forum provides a practical example of cross-sector collaboration, highlighting how the integration of roles between government entities and the private sector can help build a more resilient, competitive, and sustainable economy,” Al Mulla added.

The forum also featured a panel discussion titled “Partners in Shaping the Future Economy.” Aisha Saleh, Chairperson of SCCI Youth Council, moderated the session. Contributors included Lieutenant Colonel Abdul Rahim Al Hammadi from Sharjah Police, Engineer Mohammed Bushlaibi from TDRA, Mariam Almarzooqi from SDD, and AI content creator Ebrahim Bolehyool.

During the session, speakers examined the strategic role of AI in developing the digital economy. They also highlighted the increasingly proactive role of government entities in adopting digital, smart, and predictive solutions. Notably, speakers pointed out that government institutions are leading several areas of digital innovation. This reflects the rapid advancement of digital transformation and their growing capacity to integrate emerging technologies and AI into public services.

The session also explored the use of AI-driven data and input analysis. This approach helps improve the quality, reliability, and accuracy of information. Consequently, it enables more effective decision-making and supports proactive, data-driven solutions.

Additionally, the discussion underscored future foresight as a key pillar for developing new strategic initiatives and programmes. At the same time, it strengthens institutional resilience and the capacity to adapt to technological and economic shifts.

Participants also highlighted the Sharjah Police General Command’s efforts to integrate AI and emerging technologies into its operations. This, they said, enhances service efficiency and responsiveness. They stressed the importance of continuously analysing current conditions and evolving community needs to develop digital services accordingly.

Speakers further emphasised the need to invest in developing young people’s capabilities. They also called for equipping youth with future-ready knowledge and skills. This, they said, fosters an environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Such measures, they noted, are essential to enabling youth to lead digital and economic transformation.

The forum also hosted a second panel discussion titled “Youth Shaping the Future.” Maryam Al Ketbi, member of the Sharjah Chamber Youth Council, moderated this session. It brought together young entrepreneurs who shared practical insights from their experiences in launching businesses. They also discussed converting innovative ideas into successful and scalable business models.

During the discussion, participants highlighted the key milestones that shaped their entrepreneurial journeys. They also addressed the role of innovation and emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, in developing products and services and reaching broader customer segments.

Finally, the forum concluded with an interactive Q&A and discussion session. This allowed young participants to engage directly with policymakers and experts. Topics included digital economy governance and the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship. Overall, the SCCI Youth Forum reinforced the UAE’s commitment to empowering young talent as central partners in shaping the nation’s AI-driven economic future.

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