Sheikh Sultan establishes Sharjah Communication Technologies Authority

His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, issued an Emiri Decree on the establishment and regulation of the Sharjah Communication Technologies Authority (SCTA).According to the decree, an authority named the “Sharjah Communication Technologies Authority” will be established in the Emirate.
It will have the legal personality and necessary capacity to achieve its objectives and exercise its powers. The authority will have financial and administrative independence.
According to the decree, the objectives of the authority are as follows:
1- Enhancing the emirate’s position to become a global hub that attracts the telecommunications sector, future technology, communication technologies, and all forms of data centers.
2- Providing all regulatory services related to the telecommunications sector, communication technologies, infrastructure, data centres, and marine and land installations in the emirate at a high level of quality and efficiency, in coordination with relevant authorities.
3- Contributing to the development and improvement of legislation and laws related to the telecommunications sector, future technology, communication technologies, and data centres, which contribute to the comprehensive development of the emirate.
4- Supporting and encouraging the development of communication technologies and providing a suitable environment for them within international standards.
5- Empowering small and medium companies, entrepreneurs, and talented individuals to participate in related sectors and fostering their growth and development.
6 – Developing technological, knowledge, and research projects and working on establishing partnerships with universities, institutions, and relevant sectors.
The decree specifies the authority’s powers, taking into account relevant federal and local legislation. The authority is granted the following powers and responsibilities:
1 – Developing comprehensive strategic plans and contributing to the preparation of regulations, laws, and decisions related to the telecommunications sector, future technology, and data centers, in line with the country’s vision and the requirements of the telecommunications and artificial intelligence sectors. These plans and proposals are presented to Sharjah Executive Council for appropriate action.
2 – Establishing data centres and communication technologies, including maritime, terrestrial, and other types, according to local and international standards, in coordination with relevant authorities.
3- Constructing the necessary infrastructure and facilities related to the authority’s tasks and providing administrative support services and any other necessary services to achieve its objectives.
4- Coordinating with relevant authorities and companies operating in the same field, submitting proposals, and working on their development.
5-Conducting local and international agreements related to communication technologies, research, and studies with similar entities, organisations, and institutions.
6- Issuing relevant licences for companies and institutions wishing to engage in activities aligned with the authority’s objectives, in coordination with the relevant authorities.
7- Taking all necessary measures to implement international agreements and treaties that the country is committed to in all areas within the authority’s jurisdiction.
8- Granting privileges to any economic entity or institution to carry out certain tasks of the authority, establishing regulations for this privilege, and determining the associated fees, subject to approval by the council.
9- Representing the Emirate in regional and international bodies, organizations, meetings, conferences, and seminars related to the authority’s specialisation.
10 – Establishing companies, projects, and institutions of all types or participating in them after their approval by the council.