High-level Sharjah delegation explores new opportunities in technology, innovation, healthcare, trade and women-led business

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA — Sharjah is strengthening its economic and business relationship with the Republic of Korea through a high-level business mission led by H.E. Halima Humaid Ali Al Owais, Chairperson of the Sharjah Consultative Council and Board Member of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI).

The official mission took place from 23 to 30 August 2026, bringing together around 30 prominent women entrepreneurs, business leaders and representatives from Sharjah’s economic, investment and entrepreneurship sectors.

The visit came at an important moment for UAE–Korea economic relations, following the implementation of the UAE–Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) earlier this year.

Sharjah and Korea seek stronger business partnerships

One of the key highlights of the visit was the Sharjah–Korea Businesswomen Forum 2026, held in Seoul on 25 August.

The forum brought together representatives from Sharjah and Korea to discuss opportunities for cooperation in areas including technology, innovation, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, beauty and cosmetics, tourism, food and the digital economy.

During the forum, SCCI signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with the Korea-Arab Society (KAS) aimed at strengthening economic and trade cooperation between the two business communities.

The agreement also provides a framework for business delegations, B2B meetings, bilateral partnerships and the exchange of business opportunities between the UAE and Korea.

A further agreement was concluded with the Korea Venture Business Women Association (KOVWA), creating additional opportunities for women entrepreneurs and businesses in both markets.

“We can build the future together”

Opening the Seoul forum, H.E. Halima Humaid Al Owais highlighted the strong foundation of UAE–Korea relations and the complementary strengths of both economies.

Korea brings globally recognised capabilities in technology, manufacturing, innovation and culture, while the UAE has established itself as a major international centre for trade, investment, logistics and talent.

For Sharjah, the mission represents an opportunity to connect these strengths and create practical commercial partnerships.

The programme also included discussions on how women entrepreneurs can gain greater access to international markets and benefit from trade agreements and cross-border business networks.

Focus on AI, semiconductors and advanced industries

The delegation identified several areas with strong potential for future cooperation, including artificial intelligence, semiconductors, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, energy and smart mobility.

The mission also included B2B meetings and visits to Korean businesses and institutions, providing the Sharjah delegation with an opportunity to explore Korean technology, innovation and business models firsthand.

The visit coincided with Emirati Women’s Day on 28 August, with an official event held by the UAE Embassy in Seoul to recognise the achievements of Emirati women and their growing contribution to business and investment.

A special panel also brought together Emirati businesswomen participating in the delegation to share their experiences, challenges and perspectives on the evolving role of women in the economy.

A new chapter in UAE–Korea economic cooperation

According to SCCI, non-oil trade between the UAE and Korea reached approximately US$6.9 billion in 2025, while the two countries continue to expand cooperation across strategic sectors.

For Sharjah, the Korea mission is part of a broader effort to expand its international business network and create new channels for trade, investment, innovation and knowledge exchange.

As UAE–Korea relations continue to develop, the Sharjah delegation’s visit demonstrates the growing role of women entrepreneurs, innovation and private-sector partnerships in building the next phase of economic cooperation between the two countries.