The Middle East Tourism Sector Research Highlights
Gulf countries promote the region as a leading tourism destinationOBGplus
In 2022 the Middle East witnessed the sharpest relative increase in international arrivals of any region in the world, solidifying its rebound from the disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic and further raising its profile as an increasingly attractive destination for inbound tourism. According to the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), in 2022 international arrivals in the Middle East recovered to…
Sustainable development boosts Sharjah's ecotourism credentialsOBGplus
With tourism emerging as a pillar of Sharjah’s development strategy, the emirate is providing incentives to encourage businesses to harness its tourism-related strengths, while also ensuring that growth does not occur at the expense of sustainability priorities. Natural & Cultural Relevance In line with its commitment to sustainability, Sharjah is undertaking efforts to preserve its natural…
Sharjah emerges as premier tourist destination for arts, culture and sportOBGplus
Sharjah’s cultural heritage has earned it the titles of UNESCO World Book Capital for 2019; Arab Tourism Capital of 2015; and Islamic Culture Capital in 2014, and it remains a focal point for the sector. This is illustrated by projects like the Heart of Sharjah, the largest heritage preservation and restoration project in the Gulf region. Sharjah is on a transformative journey with a keen focus on…
Saif Mohamed Al Midfa, CEO, Expo Centre Sharjah: InterviewOBGplus
Interview:Saif Mohamed Al Midfa How can the meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE) segment be leveraged to create more synergies with Sharjah’s tourism sector? SAIF MOHAMED AL MIDFA: With its robust infrastructure and strategic event planning, the MICE segment is pivotal in attracting international and regional audiences to Sharjah. Such an influx significantly benefits the hospitality…
Aisha Deemas, Director General, Sharjah Museums Authority: InterviewOBGplus
Interview:Aisha Deemas What do you see as the role of museums within Sharjah’s tourism and cultural economy? AISHA DEEMAS: We view museums as educational platforms, sources of entertainment and leisure, and a means to foster connection. These institutions offer diverse experiences to tourists and locals alike, and anyone visiting Sharjah will likely include at least one museum, if not several,…
Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority: InterviewOBGplus
Interview:Khalid Jasim Al Midfa Where is the standout appeal of Sharjah’s tourism industry to international businesses and investors? KHALID JASIM AL MIDFA: We are working to elevate Sharjah’s profile as an investment-friendly destination. This involves showcasing the emirate’s cultural richness, family-friendly atmosphere and safety at international forums and trade shows. We highlight…
The Report: Sharjah 2023: Tourism & CultureOBGplus
Strategically positioned as a global centre for culture and tourism, Sharjah is looking to leverage its emerging and established arts, ecotourism, and adventure offerings. Infrastructure expansion projects such as airport upgrades and road projects have attracted investors, and heritage preservation efforts such as the Heart of Sharjah project underscore this commitment. Aligned with the UAE's tourism…
Future Hospitality Summit
Future Hospitality Summit returns to Saudi Arabia in Riyadh, from April 29 to May 1, 2024, after a record-breaking edition in 2023 with over 1,100 delegates from 35+ countries. This year, visionary hospitality leaders, hotel owners, operators, and investors will convene to transform the industry under the theme, “Invest in Tomorrow: Today, Together” with conference tracks focused on hospitality…
The Report: Sharjah 2023OBGplus
Sharjah has emerged as a diverse economic powerhouse, with nearly 96% of its economic output driven by non-oil sectors. As host to six free zones and featuring a population of 1.8m, the emirate is prioritising economic diversification and cultural richness. Robust growth is seen across sectors like manufacturing, construction and real estate, supported by initiatives like Sharjah Sustainable City.