In this Global Platform video, Oxford Business Group speaks with Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) about Sharjah’s strategies for fostering tourism growth by striking a balance between cultural appreciation and sustainability. In 2022 tourism constituted over 9% of the UAE’s GDP and contributed around 10% to non-oil GDP in the emirate
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…
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’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…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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.
Sharjah’s beaches, shopping centres, museums and unique cultural offering make the emirate a popular tourist destination for nationals and foreigners alike. While international travel slowed significantly in 2020 due to border closures and travel restrictions in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, domestic tourism in Sharjah picked up as UAE residents explored destinations closer to home. Despite…
