The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) has inaugurated the ‘Souq Al Freej’ Ramadan market, as part of the 34th edition of Sharjah Ramadan Festival, a report said. 

The initiative, which is held at Sharjah National Park, and runs until April 4, aims at bolstering small and medium-sized ventures and supporting productive families, offering them a unique platform to showcase and market their products, Emirates News Agency, WAM, said.

The market has brought together owners of an array of small and medium-sized businesses, productive families, and entrepreneurs, showcasing a variety of fashion, food, and accessories inspired by Emirati heritage.

Additionally, the event features a diverse range of products and merchandise tailored to meet Ramadan shoppers’ preferences. Shopping stalls (booths), a heritage village, a restaurant lounge serving local and traditional cuisine, and entertainment activities and games for children.

The “Souq Al Freej” Ramadan market features a diverse range of products that harmonize with the traditions of the holy month, ranging from the Ramadan traditional attire, popular delicacies, and sweet dishes, to the handcrafted accessories and souvenirs.

Visitors also have the chance to indulge in traditional Emirati delicacies.

Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, chairman of SCCI, said: “Souq Al Freej” Ramadan market exemplifies a collaborative effort between the public and private sectors to organise innovative marketing initiatives that contribute to bolstering trade activity across the Sharjah Emirate, reinforcing its stature as a unique tourist destination.

“This initiative aligns with a comprehensive strategic vision that is aimed at achieving sustainable economic development and fortifying the emirate's position as a leading commercial and economic hub in the region.”

Mohammed Ahmed Amin Al-Awadi, Director-General of SCCI, said that the event marks a qualitative addition to the Sharjah Ramadan Festival's activities and accomplishments, offering an opportunity to explore the UAE’s local products.

He pointed out that the initiative carries significant commercial and social implications, as it serves as a tangible manifestation of the Sharjah Chamber’s steadfast support for entrepreneurs.

Ibrahim Rashid Al Jarwan, Director of Economic Relations and Marketing at SCCI, and General Coordinator of the Sharjah Ramadan Festival, said that aside from international brands, the ‘Souq Al Freej’ market showcases one-of-a-kind local products offered by productive families and innovation-based household small entrepreneurs, who strive to develop products and establish brands that can achieve resonance among shoppers seeking unique Emirati-inspired items.

Aisha Saleh, the official spokesperson for the Sharjah Ramadan Festival 2024, highlighted that the event serves as a platform for Sharjah's community and visitors to indulge in the Ramadan shopping experience and bolster local businesses.

She added that the initiative opens channels of communication between productive families, owners of small businesses, and budding entrepreneurs on one side, and shoppers and enthusiasts who seek unique locally inspired products on the other side.