Sharjah, United Arab Emirates: Sharjah Asset Management (SAM), the investment arm of the Government of Sharjah, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Emirates Researchers Centre for Research and Studies (ERC), marking a strategic step toward strengthening institutional performance through research-driven collaboration.
The agreement is designed to enhance academic, scientific and applied cooperation between the two entities, with a focus on boosting innovation, improving operational efficiency and reinforcing the role of research in serving the community and advancing sustainable development. It reflects a shared commitment to knowledge-based integration and long-term institutional impact.
The MoU was signed at Sharjah Asset Management’s headquarters by Omar Al Mulla, CEO Investments Officer at SAM, and Dr. Firas Habbal, Chairperson of the Emirates Researchers Centre and Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees, in the presence of senior executives from both organisations.
Commenting on the partnership, Al Mulla said the agreement underscores Sharjah Asset Management’s dedication to strengthening the scientific research ecosystem and building effective knowledge-based partnerships. He noted that the collaboration aims to transform research outputs into practical solutions with sustainable impact, while supporting decision-makers and contributing to community development.
“This partnership represents a qualitative addition to sustainable development pathways,” Al Mulla said. “It aligns with the Emirate of Sharjah’s vision to reinforce a knowledge-based economy, foster innovation, and support comprehensive and sustainable growth.”
Dr. Habbal described the MoU as a strategic framework for advancing applied scientific research and knowledge exchange. He emphasised its role in empowering researchers and academic staff, producing high-quality research, and enhancing the UAE’s competitiveness in scientific and research fields.
Under the agreement, both parties will work to empower research and academic personnel, develop the skills of researchers and students, and launch scientific programmes and initiatives with tangible community impact. The MoU also provides for the implementation of joint research and applied projects based on mutually agreed work plans, in line with the UAE’s national vision for research, innovation and scientific excellence.
The collaboration highlights a shared belief in scientific research as a key driver of sustainable development and positions the partnership as a model for effective, knowledge-based institutional cooperation with long-term national and organisational benefits.
Sharjah Asset Management is the investment arm of the Government of Sharjah. It aims to enhance economic and social development and support a sustainable economy through strategic partnerships, investment promotion and corporate social responsibility. The company focuses on the optimal use of resources to serve the needs of the Sharjah community and ensure long-term, sustainable well-being.