Sharjah Ruler approves largest ever budget; 47% allocated for salaries

His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has approved a Dh33.6-billion general budget for the fiscal year 2021.

This is the largest ever general budget in the emirate’s history.

According to the Sharjah Finance Department (SFD), the budget has increased 12 per cent, compared to the final 2020 budget. The aim is to “achieve the strategic vision of the emirate in economic and social development; enhancing financial sustainability; and stimulating the macroeconomic environment”.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of the SFD, said: “The budget of the emirate has adopted many strategic and financial objectives and priorities ... It reflects the directives of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and his ... vision.”

Waleed Al Sayegh, Director-General of the SFD, said: “Salaries and wages account for 47 per cent of the total operating budget for 2021, while 43 per cent ... is allocated for developing and improving infrastructure in the emirate. This is an increase of 40 per cent over the 2020 budget.

“The budget reflects the interest of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah to provide social support and assistance to those who deserve it, in pursuit of welfare and social justice. This would constitute 11 per cent of the total general budget for 2021,” he added.

The budget allocated 29 per cent for developing the economic sector; and 21 per cent for social development to support scientific, cultural and heritage services.

The capital projects budget accounts for 32 per cent — an increase of 46 per cent. It will enhance infrastructure and ensure the development and improvement of the transport network, tunnels, tourism facilities and various other service facilities.