H.H. Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah, officially inaugurated the University’s new Innovation Hub on Wednesday as part of a strategic partnership with e&.
The inauguration began with the unveiling of the hub’s building, followed by a demonstration from an advanced AI-powered robot stationed at the entrance, which welcomed guests and introduced the hub’s vision, facilities, and services for students, researchers, and visitors.
During a guided tour, H.H. Sheikh Sultan explored the hub’s state-of-the-art laboratories and workshops, where he viewed demonstrations of advanced technologies including AI-powered robotics, smart systems, 3D printing, laser cutting and engraving, digital control devices, drones, and other digital manufacturing solutions.
The Innovation Hub reflects the University of Sharjah’s commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. As part of this vision, the university has introduced the UAE’s first startup policy for students and faculty, enabling them to establish companies and commercialise their research while completing their academic studies. The initiative aims to accelerate the transformation of scientific research into market-ready products and businesses that contribute to the national economy while creating early career opportunities for students.
Designed to cultivate innovation, the hub supports students in developing prototypes, launching new products, and collaborating with government and private-sector organisations. It is intended to nurture a new generation of innovators and entrepreneurs equipped to contribute to the future economy.
The facility is equipped with advanced digital manufacturing technologies, including 3D printing, robotics, drones, laser cutting, virtual and augmented reality systems, as well as specialised laboratories for design, artificial intelligence, computing, electronics, additive manufacturing, advanced materials, woodworking, CNC machining, and metalworking.
A key feature of the hub is the Sharjah Digital Fabrication Lab, the first facility in Sharjah to join the global Fab Lab network established by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Membership gives the university’s academic community access to an international network for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and digital fabrication projects.
The collaboration strengthens Sharjah’s position as a regional centre for innovation and digital manufacturing while creating new opportunities for students and researchers to engage with peers across the global Fab Lab community.
Serving as a platform for innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology transfer, the hub provides an environment where students, researchers, faculty members, and entrepreneurs can transform ideas and research into prototypes, technologies, commercial products, and startups with measurable economic and social impact, supporting the UAE’s knowledge economy and innovation ambitions.
The partnership between e& and the University of Sharjah underscores a shared commitment to advancing innovation, supporting research commercialisation, developing intellectual property, and helping students and researchers convert ideas into sustainable businesses.
The ceremony concluded with H.H. Sheikh Sultan receiving a commemorative 3D model of the university’s main building, produced at the Innovation Hub to mark its opening. He also presented a commemorative gift to e& representatives before posing for official photographs.
The event was attended by Sheikh Saud Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Director General of the Sharjah Digital Department; Masood Sharif Mahmood, CEO of e&; Rashid Ali Al Ali, Executive Director of the Sharjah Communications Technologies Authority; Prof. Esameldin Agamy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah; and senior officials from educational institutions.
