Sharjah Hosts Key Tourism Forum in, Shaping the Future of Travel in the Middle East

Published on November 21, 2025

The Sharjah International Travel and Tourism Forum – the 12th of its kind, with the title, “New Waves of Tourism Spectrum” is part of the SCBTA and Shuroq partnership. It is one of the most important tourism events within the sector and is aimed at fostering collaboration with the sector stakeholders. It is taking place at the Aur Jawaher Convention and Reception Center and aims to integrate tourism sector policymakers and SCBTA and Shuroq officials. It aims at integrating the tourism policymakers with the SCBTA, Shuroq officials and private organisations to develop `visionary integration along innovation and sustainability.

The opening ceremony of SITTF was attended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud Al Qasimi and Ms. Loza, who are the most important officials of the state and the private sector. Subsequently, on the commencement of the meet, the UAE Anthem was played, visualised showing various sector stakeholders, Contesting and Theme sessions, Motivation and Tourism Technologies of the Contemporary World.

The Ascendance of Sustainable Tourism

The concept of sustainability has become the central focus in global tourism, and the 12th SITTF has also prioritised it. Travel and tourism have been one of the most affected areas as the world moves on from the COVID-19 pandemic, and sector has begun to incorporate sustainability as one of the pillars for recovery and future expansion. The forum is an opportunity for stakeholders to consider the many ways sustainable tourism could offer eco-tourism, responsible travel, and other green tourism alternatives.

As a result of its rich cultural heritage and commitment to sustainability, Sharjah has positioned itself as a frontrunner in the scholarship of new tourism. The forum illustrates how Sharjah and the rest of UAE are adopting sustainable methodologies in tourism development. These include sustainability in the financing and construction of hotels and other built environments, and in providing travel services that encourage low-impact, nature-based tourism.

Main Themes and Topics of the Forum

The 12th Sharjah International Travel and Tourism Forum is devoted to some of the most pressing and pertinent evolutions within the tourism sector:

Development of Sustainable Tourism: The resource management, environment, and communities focus on tourism challeng and speak to the opportunities of sustainable the in.

The Digital Transformation of the Sector: The transformation of the sector through the advent of travel technology, including online bookings, virtual reality, and smart tourism.

The Pandemic and Tourism: The forum will focus on the health protocols, behaviour changes, and tourism sector adaption challenges in travel in the demand the new framework.

The forum will highlight the role of travel in the cultural sector. With numerous museums, galleries, artistic events, and cultural tourism, Sharjah continues to attract travellers interested in the diverse traditions.

Regional Tourism Trends: The forum will focus on the role of tourism in the UAE and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Considering the role of tourism in promoting the diversification of the economy of the region, this session will evaluate the potential for integration of the tourism markets of the countries of the region.

Promoting Sustainable Cultural and Eco Tourism in Sharjah and the UAE

Sharjah has been promoting itself as a sustainable tourism destination for travellers interested in culture and the environment. Through the Sharjah Sustainable Tourism program, the city promotes sustainable active tourism and the positive contribution of tourism on the preservation the natural and cultural resources.

The forum enables Sharjah to promote its range of tourism offers. The city’s diverse tourism and region’s international attractions include the desert and beach resort eco-tourism, heritage sites of Al Qasba, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation, Al Noor Island and many more, to offer a vast regional and international tourist attraction. The tourism of Sharjah is built on the preservation of the cultural and environmental heritage of the region.

Networking Opportunities Secured through Tourism Industry Partnership

One of the most important parts of the SITTF is the chance it gives tourism industry attendees to meet, network, and form partnerships. Participants of the forum include tourism ministers, travel professionals, and global representatives of the airline and hotel industries. SITTF creates a forum to network and discuss collaboration opportunities in the tourism and hospitality industries.

As the world’s tourism recovers from the pandemic, SITTF is instrumental in enhancing the world’s UAE and the Middle East tourism potential, especially when integrating technology, sustainable practices, and culturally authentic elements to the hospitality industry.

Sharjah’s Expected Vision For Future Tourism

As tourism quickly becomes one of the most important elements of the economy in Sharjah, the Sharjah Tourism Authority is dedicated to facilitating the development of a robust, inclusive, and sustainable tourism industry. The forum is a part of the emirate’s continued commitment to establishing itself as a premier international tourism destination, offering travellers the opportunity to enjoy its rich cultural heritage and modern tourism practices.

Conclusion

Bringing together industry leaders for the 12th Sharjah International Travel and Tourism Forum has positioned Sharjah as a global leader in the discourse surrounding sustainable tourism, borderless partnerships, and the future of travel. The Forum reveals Sharjah’s commitment to becoming to leader in Cultural and Eco Tourism, as in-digital transformation. The focus is on Eco, cultural tourism and digital transformation, and today’s Forum sets the groundwork for the continuing transformation of Sharjah as a premier tourist destination.