The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), in partnership with the Federation of GCC Chambers (FGCCC), has opened registrations for private sector companies across the GCC to participate in the Sharjah Gulf Localisation Award. Operating as a dedicated category within the 2026 Sharjah Excellence Award, this annual initiative is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.
The award is designed to recognize businesses that show a measurable dedication to hiring, training, and integrating GCC nationals into various technical, executive, and leadership positions. It serves as a shared regional benchmark, allowing participants to evaluate their human resources practices and improve national talent development strategies. Over recent years, more than 50 regional enterprises from diverse sectors, such as manufacturing, healthcare, financial services, retail, and food, have participated in the program.
SCCI Chairman and Board of Trustees Chairman, Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, stated that the collaboration with the FGCCC broadens the award's regional reach and fosters the sharing of successful national employment strategies, thereby enhancing the economic competitiveness of the GCC. Sheikh Faisal bin Abdullah Al-Rawas, Chairman of the FGCCC and the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized that the partnership underscores the collective focus of GCC chambers on building local workforce capabilities.
According to Nada Al Hajri, General Coordinator of the Sharjah Excellence Award, the growing registration numbers highlight a rising corporate awareness of the strategic value of investing in local talent. Registration for the 2026 awards cycle commenced in July and will remain open until January 2027. The broader awards program also features other categories, including the Sharjah Gulf Excellence Award, the Sharjah Entrepreneurs Award, and the Sharjah Social Responsibility Award.
