Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2026: Dates, Passes, and Sessions

The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) 2026 returns as one of the region’s most anticipated events for innovators, founders and business enthusiasts. Scheduled to take place from 31 January to 1 February 2026 at the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SPARK), the ninth edition of SEF brings together thousands of entrepreneurs, investors and changemakers for two days of inspiration, learning and collaboration.

Dates, Venue and Theme

SEF’s 2026 edition will be held on 31 January and 1 February at SPARK Sharjah, a purpose-built hub for innovation and technology that provides an ideal setting for workshops, networking and interactive experiences. The festival’s theme, “Where We Belong”,celebrates community and connection as key drivers of entrepreneurship and innovation.

Tickets and Passes

Aspiring attendees can book their passes through the official SEF website, choosing from a variety of ticket options tailored to different interests and goals. Passes typically include general admission, workshop access, and premium experiences that may offer exclusive investor meetups or curated sessions. Early-bird pricing and group rates are often available, with prices expected to increase closer to the event dates.

What to Expect: Speakers and Highlights

SEF 2026 will feature a diverse roster of global speakers and thought leaders, including founders, investors, creatives and ecosystem builders. The festival’s programme offers a mix of keynotes, panel discussions, masterclasses and hands-on workshops designed to support founders at every stage of their entrepreneurial journey. Speakers will include four-time F1 champion Sebastian Vettel, motivational speaker Ghanim Al Muftah, founder of Bil Arabi Nadine Kanso, and many others. 

Themed Zones and Sessions

The 2026 festival experience is organised into multiple thematic zones, each designed to support different aspects of entrepreneurship and community building:

• Impact Zone: A stage for visionary talks and discussions that inspire big thinking and social change.
• Creative Zone: Celebrates imagination and innovation across design, media and storytelling.
• Startup Town: A hub where budding startups can connect with investors, mentors and peers.
• SEF Academy: Offers workshops and masterclasses covering practical topics such as business fundamentals, marketing, leadership, personal branding and the use of emerging technologies like AI.
• International Pavilions: A global exchange space for ecosystems and entrepreneurs from around the world.
• Made in Sharjah: Highlights local innovation and homegrown brands shaping the emirate’s creative economy.
• SEF Eats & Community Stage: Blends community engagement with food, culture and wellbeing experiences.

Startup Competitions and Funding Opportunities

A highlight of SEF 2026 is its Pitch Competition x 1Tank, where promising startups can compete for AED 200,000 in funding, with winners in key sectors like EdTech, Sustainability, Tech & Industry 4.0 and Creative Industries receiving grants and potential investor backing. Applications for the competition run until 8 January 2026, with winners announced at the festival’s closing ceremony.

Why Attend SEF 2026

Whether you’re an early-stage founder, seasoned entrepreneur, investor, or simply curious about the world of startups, SEF 2026 offers valuable opportunities to learn from experts, forge partnerships and gain exposure to new ideas and markets. With a programme designed to elevate skills, expand networks and inspire action, the festival continues to solidify Sharjah’s reputation as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.