The UAE’s push to decentralize startup support infrastructure is showing measurable results outside its major metropolitan centers. The Small and Medium Enterprises Center “Tijarah 101,” an initiative affiliated with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), has reported full occupancy at its Khorfakkan headquarters in the first quarter of 2026.
This capacity milestone highlights the increasing demand for structured incubation services among Emirati founders and points to a maturing entrepreneurial base within the emirate.
Quick Facts
- Khorfakkan hub reached 100% capacity in Q1 2026.
- SCCI recorded 14% overall membership growth last year.
- New branch planned for Sharjah’s Eastern Region.
Broadening Sharjah’s Entrepreneurial Base
Since its establishment, Tijarah 101 has positioned itself as an inclusive economic incubator. The center has successfully attracted a diverse portfolio of early-stage ventures spanning high-growth sectors such as information technology, the digital economy, and logistics, alongside traditional industries like food, hospitality, and light manufacturing.
The Khorfakkan branch, which opened in April 2024, achieved full occupancy faster than anticipated. This rapid uptake aligns with a broader institutional trend, as the SCCI reported a 14 percent increase in overall memberships over the previous year.
H.E. Mohamed Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of SCCI, stated that the center’s performance validates the strategic vision behind its 2019 launch. He emphasized the importance of providing an integrated incubating environment that enables Emirati youth to build sustainable economic ventures rather than relying on traditional private sector employment.
Capacity Building and Ecosystem Integration
Beyond physical office space and meeting rooms equipped with modern tech infrastructure, Tijarah 101 focuses heavily on institutional maturity for emerging startups. The center’s operational thesis centers on equipping founders with practical knowledge to navigate regulatory frameworks and scale efficiently.
The incubator provides targeted training programs in e-commerce, tax auditing, and collection to ensure regulatory compliance. Recognizing the emirate’s status as a regional events hub, the center also delivers specialized courses in exhibition management, hospitality, design, and graphic production.
To solve the visibility challenge common among early-stage startups, Tijarah 101 actively integrates its cohort into major promotional events. Members gain high-visibility exhibition spaces at major platforms like the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival, the Graduates Festival, and various events hosted at Expo Centre Sharjah, connecting founders directly with both local and international markets.
Eastern Region Expansion Strategy
Following the operational success and rapid saturation of the Khorfakkan facility, Tijarah 101 is now preparing to scale its physical footprint.
Mona Omran Ali, Director of the Small and Medium Enterprises Center (Tijarah 101), announced active plans to establish a new branch in Sharjah’s Eastern Region.
She noted that the expansion is a direct response to the increasing demand for membership and reflects the strong confidence young entrepreneurs place in the center’s ability to provide critical commercial infrastructure and market access.
About Tijarah 101
Tijarah 101 is a specialized Small and Medium Enterprises Center affiliated with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI). Launched in 2019, the incubator supports Emirati entrepreneurs by providing fully equipped commercial offices, technical workshops, advisory services, and access to the SCCI’s extensive business network to foster sustainable startup growth across the emirate.
Source: Zawya
