'Sharjah Maintains Its Reputation As A Global Destination For Families'
Express Travelworld|August 2018

HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, chairman of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) highlights the unique positioning of Sharjah as a cultural capital in the region and the varied experiences it offers as a tourism destination.

Sudipta Dev
'Sharjah Maintains Its Reputation As A Global Destination For Families'

SCTDA has been focused on the Indian market in recent few years. What kind of growth have you witnessed from here ?

From 110,400 in 2016, the number has increased to a total of 138,000 Indian guests, which stayed in Sharjah hotel establishments during 2017. This growth highlights India's strong interest for travel as well as increasing awareness about Sharjah as an ideal place to stay in the UAE. Travellers choose Sharjah for its beaches, family events, natural heritage and adventure activities in the desert and its water sports.

What is so distinctive about Sharjah as a tourism destination in the region ?

Sharjah maintains its reputation as a global destination for families and is widely positioned as the cultural capital in the region for its rich heritage. However, in recent years, the increasing interest among nature-seekers prompted the sector to tap ways to further capitalise on its natural landscapes and create a distinctive experience for visitors. Sharjah’s natural attractions and outdoor tourism hotels (Kalba, Al HefaiyahMountain Conservation Centre, Wasit Wetland / Kalba Kingfisher Lodge / Fossil Rock Lodge). There are activities in the desert, such as trekking, stargazing, and camping; in particular Mleiha. One can even enjoy water activities such as snorkelling, diving, kayaking in Sharjah at places like Al Khan Beach, Khorfakkan and Kalba. Sharjah has hosted various international water sports competitions – the U.I.M. F1H2O World Championship, UIM-ABP Aquabike Class Pro Circuit World Championship – the Grand Prix of Sharjah; and other events such as the Sharjah Light Festival / World Music Festival / Exposure that entice the younger segment of traveller.

This story is from the August 2018 edition of Express Travelworld.

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This story is from the August 2018 edition of Express Travelworld.

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