Sharjah: A Global Tourism Hub for Sustainable Growth

In 2023, Sharjah welcomed over 1.5 million hotel guests, representing a 11% increase from the previous year. This growth reflects the sustainable development of tourism in the emirate and positions it as a leading tourist destination globally. The most significant increase in guest numbers came from Russia and the Baltic countries, followed by Gulf countries, Australia, and Pacific countries. This diversity in guest sources highlights Sharjah’s appeal as a global tourism hub.

During the Arabian Travel Market 2024 in Dubai, the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority revealed key components of the tourism sector in Sharjah. They unveiled details of projects such as the Al Badayer Development and Organization project and the Mleiha National Park. These initiatives, along with other projects like the Kalba Hanging Gardens and Al Hafiya Lake, aim to enhance Sharjah’s tourism offerings and accommodate the growing number of guests.

The Authority emphasized Sharjah’s position as a preferred tourist destination, with over 100 hotels offering more than 10,000 rooms. They continuously work on developing services and facilities to support the expected increase in guest numbers. The emirate’s commitment to opening world-class tourism projects demonstrates its dedication to sustainable growth in the sector.

In 2023, Sharjah saw a significant rise in guests from Gulf Cooperation Council countries, particularly Oman and Saudi Arabia. Khaled Jassim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, highlighted the positive impact of tourism on Sharjah’s economy and job market. He stressed the importance of sustainable development and innovation in the sector to enhance competitiveness globally.

During the exhibition, visitors could explore virtual tours of different environments through interactive experiences showcased by Sharjah Pavilion. Visitors could also participate in sports experiences like kayaking or gain insights into Sharjah’s cultural heritage through virtual reality technology. This immersive showcase aimed to highlight Sharjah’s diverse cultural and natural assets while emphasizing its rich offerings for visitors.

In conclusion, Sharjah has been experiencing sustained growth in its tourism sector due to its commitment to sustainable development and innovation