Software, telecommunications and digital infrastructure
Executives from Microsoft UAE and G42's Inception outlined enterprise applications of agentic AI during Sharjah Investment Forum 2026. The discussion revealed an unnamed Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund is using AI agents to counter-argue investment proposals before human review. Speakers highlighted human-led, agent-operated frameworks across investment screening and procurement operations.
Standard Chartered has rolled out cryptocurrency trading for eligible affluent clients in the United Arab Emirates, allowing them to trade Bitcoin and Ether directly through existing bank accounts. The service is regulated by Dubai's Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority and marks a global first for the bank. Developed with SC Ventures-backed Zodia Markets, the platform handles custody and settlement via a closed-loop system.
The ninth Sharjah Investment Forum hosted workshops focused on navigating UAE tax compliance, strengthening supply chain resilience, and resolving commercial disputes. Experts examined how artificial intelligence assists in managing corporate tax, VAT, and e-invoicing while emphasizing that human oversight remains crucial. Sessions also addressed investor protection through commercial arbitration and AI-driven supply chain decision-making.
Speakers at the ninth Sharjah Investment Forum stated that the UAE is positioned to become the primary crossing point for global capital flows between East and West within five years. Industry leaders attributed this trajectory to deliberate regulatory frameworks, dedicated oversight bodies like VARA, and rising investor emphasis on asset custody and trust.
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