Sharjah Research, Technology & Innovation Park: Powering the UAE’s Innovation Future
A Leading Free Zone Hub for Science, Sustainability, and Smart Technologies in Sharjah

Introduction
Sharjah Research, Technology & Innovation Park (SRTIP) is redefining the landscape of innovation and entrepreneurship in the UAE. Positioned at the intersection of academia, industry, and government, SRTIP is more than a research facility — it’s a strategic innovation hub that supports startups, corporates, and academic institutions in shaping the knowledge economy of tomorrow.
Backed by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, this free zone in University City Sharjah offers an ecosystem where cutting-edge research and development (R&D) merges with global collaboration and sustainability.
Quick Facts
Category | Details |
---|---|
Location | University City, Sharjah, UAE |
Founded | 2016 by Royal Decree |
Free Zone | Yes – 100% foreign ownership |
Focus Areas | Water, Renewable Energy, AI, Smart Manufacturing, AR/VR, Transport, Architecture |
Chairperson | Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi |
CEO | Hussain Al Mahmoudi |
Foundation and Vision of SRTIP
A Royal Initiative for Innovation
Founded in 2016, SRTIP was established under the American University of Sharjah Enterprises (AUSE). It was created to foster innovation through academia-industry collaboration and to facilitate research commercialization within a thriving business environment.
Vision for the Future
SRTIP is aligned with the UAE innovation strategy, with a core objective to transform Sharjah into a Middle East innovation hub. Its triple helix model connects universities, industries, and government agencies to drive research and technology into real-world applications.
Strategic Focus Areas
Renewable Energy and Environmental Tech
The Park emphasizes renewable energy UAE, green energy startups UAE, and environmental technology park development. Research projects focus on solar innovation, waste-to-energy systems, and sustainable materials.
Water Technology and Transport Innovation
SRTIP leads in water technology research, working on desalination, purification, and conservation. In transport innovation, smart mobility solutions, autonomous systems, and eco-logistics are high-priority fields.
World-Class Infrastructure and Labs
Cutting-Edge Research Spaces
The park is home to smart labs Sharjah, innovation labs UAE, and a robotics lab Sharjah, providing companies with access to high-tech facilities. It also supports 3D printing hub UAE capabilities and advanced prototyping Sharjah centers for hardware development.
Business Support Facilities
Entrepreneurs benefit from co-working space Sharjah, technology startup space, and state-of-the-art meeting rooms. SRTIP also facilitates technology investment UAE through incubation programs UAE and innovation accelerators.
Free Zone Benefits and Business Setup
100% Ownership & Tax-Free Setup
As a recognized technology free zone UAE, SRTIP offers 100% foreign ownership, tax-free zone UAE benefits, and easy startup visa UAE procedures. These perks make it one of the most attractive zones for foreign investment Sharjah.
Flexible Licensing & Support
SRTIP offers SRTIP business license options for various sectors, from industrial and R&D to digital and media. The SRTIP company setup process is streamlined to accommodate both local and international businesses.
Academic and Industry Collaboration
University City Sharjah Advantage
Located within the University City Sharjah precinct, SRTIP draws on resources from over 150 academic institutions. Its SRTIP university partnerships are vital for nurturing student innovation Sharjah and accelerating R&D.
Real-World Applications of Research
With a focus on research and development UAE, the park promotes technology transfer UAE by turning ideas into viable products. This is evident in its work with AI research UAE, smart manufacturing Sharjah, and digitalization in UAE.
Leadership and Governance
Visionary Leadership
SRTIP’s progress is driven by its Chairperson Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi and CEO Hussain Al Mahmoudi. Their combined focus on policy, sustainability, and enterprise is transforming Sharjah into a science and innovation UAE leader.
Policy Backed by Strategy
The park follows policies that foster entrepreneur support Sharjah and ensure global competitiveness. Their governance model supports the Sharjah innovation ecosystem through legal, financial, and logistical ease.
Real Impact and Global Recognition
Growth and Milestones
SRTIP now houses over 2,000+ companies from various sectors. Its ongoing contributions to the knowledge economy Sharjah have earned international attention, making it one of the most dynamic innovation parks in UAE.
Middle East Innovation Hub
The park’s initiatives, including SRTIP funding support and research commercialization, are vital to cementing Sharjah’s place on the global innovation map. It acts as a beacon for startups and corporates seeking growth in the MENA region.
Conclusion
Sharjah Research, Technology & Innovation Park is not just an infrastructure project—it’s a catalyst for shaping a smarter, more sustainable future in the UAE. With strong foundations in academia-industry collaboration, world-class facilities, and a strategic location within University City, SRTIP is poised to become a global innovation leader. Whether you’re a startup founder, academic researcher, or corporate innovator, SRTIP offers the ecosystem, expertise, and environment to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is Sharjah Research, Technology & Innovation Park (SRTIP)?
SRTIP is a free zone and innovation park in Sharjah focused on R&D, sustainability, and technology commercialization.
Q2: What benefits does SRTIP offer to startups and businesses?
It offers 100% foreign ownership, tax-free setup, startup visa support, R&D labs, funding, and incubation programs.
Q3: Which sectors are supported by SRTIP?
Key sectors include water, renewable energy, transport, architecture, AI, AR/VR, and smart manufacturing.
Q4: How can a company set up in SRTIP?
Businesses can apply for licenses under categories like industrial, research, or tech, with streamlined procedures and full ownership.
Q5: Who are the key figures behind SRTIP?
The park is chaired by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi and managed by CEO Hussain Al Mahmoudi, with support from academic and industry leaders.