Sharjah Unveils Record-Breaking 2025 Budget

Sharjah's Historic 2025 Budget: Sustainability and Welfare

Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah and a member of the Supreme Council, has approved the largest budget in Sharjah's history. The 2025 budget, totaling approximately 42 billion dirhams (11.4 billion dollars), aims to achieve financial sustainability and improve the standard of living for its residents. The announcement was made by the Sharjah Government Media Office.

Key Objectives of the 2025 Budget

The main goals of the new budget include:

a, Ensuring financial sustainability: Strengthening the long-term stability and solvency of the emirate.

b, Improving the standard of living: Ensuring decent living conditions for all residents.

c, Social welfare: Continuing focus on providing social assistance and support.

Key Figures of the Budget

The overall budget expenditures for 2025 have increased by 2% compared to 2024. The key items are as follows:

a, Salaries and wages: Account for 27% of the budget.

b, Operating expenses: Represent 23% of the total budget.

c, Capital expenditures: 20% of the budget is allocated for infrastructure investments and capital expenditures.

d, Debt service: Repayment of debts and interest costs account for 16%, marking a 2% increase compared to 2024.

e, Grants and subsidies: Constitute 12% of the overall expenditure.

Sectoral Allocation

Key sectors feature prominently in the budget:

a, Infrastructure: Receives the largest share at 41% of the budget, a 7% increase from 2024.

b, Economic development: Accounts for 27% of total expenditure.

c, Social development: Makes up 22% of the budget, ensuring quality services and support.

d, Government administration, security, and defense: 10% of total expenditure, an 8% increase from the previous year.

Revenues

The Sharjah government is focusing on growth and more efficient collection methods for revenues. Overall revenue shows an 8% increase compared to 2024. The distribution of revenues is as follows:

a, Operating revenues: Comprise 74% of total revenues, with a 16% increase.

b, Capital revenues: Account for 10% of total revenues.

c, Tax revenues: Constitute 10% of total revenues, showing a 15% increase.

d, Customs revenues: Contribute 4% of revenues, remaining stable compared to the previous year.

e, Oil and gas revenues: Make up 2% of total revenues.

Impact of the New Budget

The 2025 budget represents a significant milestone for Sharjah, prioritizing infrastructure and social development while also promoting economic growth. The increase in debt service aims to maintain financial stability, while programs aimed at resident welfare reinforce the emirate's commitment to social solidarity.

Sharjah's historic budget opens new pathways for the emirate's residents and businesses to benefit from sustainable development and growth.