Sharjah announces its largest-ever budget

Sharjah has approved a general budget of about AED 42 billion for 2025.

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, gave the go-ahead for the largest budget in the emirate’s history.

The spending plan aims to achieve financial sustainability while ensuring a decent standard of living and social security. 

Focusing on economic sectors, the infrastructure sector leads with 41% of the 2025 budget, marking a 7% increase from 2024. This underscores the government's dedication to enhancing infrastructure, driving sustainable development, and attracting investments.

The economic development sector follows with 27%, while the social development sector receives 22%, maintaining its key role in providing services and support to citizens and residents.

The government administration, security and safety sector sees an 8% rise, contributing 10% of the overall budget.

In the 2025 budget, expenditures will increase by 2% compared to 2024. Salaries and wages account for 27%, while operating expenses make up 23%.

The government has committed 20% of the budget to capital projects, with loan repayments and interest rising by 2% to 16%, reflecting its financial stability. Support and aid represent 12%, and capital expenditures make up about 2% of the total.

In terms of revenue, the government has emphasized boosting public revenues, with a notable 8% increase over 2024. Operating revenues will comprise 74% of total revenue, a 16% rise from 2024.

Tax revenues are expected to grow by 15%, making up 10% of the total, while customs contribute 4%. Oil and gas revenues will account for 2% of the total revenue budget for 2025.