Sharjah's $9.1bn budget to be the biggest budget ever in Emirate's History

His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah has approved a Dh 33.6-billion general budget for the fiscal year 2021.

This is the highest ever government budget in the emirate's history.

As per the Sharjah Finance Department (SFD), the spending rose by 12% relative to the final budget for 2020. The goal is "to achieve the strategic vision of the Emirate in economic and social development; to enhance financial sustainability; and to stimulate the macroeconomic environment."

 "The budget of the emirate has adopted many strategic and financial objectives and priorities ... It reflects the directives of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and his ... vision," said Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of the SFD.

According to Waleed Al Sayegh, Director-General of the SFD declarations: "Salaries and wages account for 47% of the total operating budget for 2021, while 43% goes to develop and improve infrastructure in the emirate. This is an increase of 40% over the 2020 budget.

He added that The budget represents His Highness's concern, the Ruler of Sharjah, in offering social support and security to those who need it in the pursuit of health and social justice. This will reflect 11% of the proposed general budget for 2021.

The budget provided 29% for economic growth and 21% for social development to advance science, heritage, and cultural services.

The budget for capital improvements amounts to 32%—a 46% rise. It will strengthen the infrastructure and ensure the growth and expansion of the transport network, tunnels, tourist facilities, and numerous other services.

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