Sharjah Sees Continued Tourism Growth as Hotel Stays Rise Over 3% to 1.06 Million, with Russia and India Leading Visitor Numbers in 2024

Published on September 27, 2024

In the first eight months of 2024, Sharjah’s tourism sector has shown significant growth, with the number of hotel guests increasing by 3.07% to reach approximately 1.057 million, compared to 1.025 million during the same period in the previous year. This increase in visitor numbers coincided with a steady hotel occupancy rate of 66%. These figures were shared during the annual “Connected Meeting” organized by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) at the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park, where key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors were present.

Key Statistics Highlighting Growth

The performance results for January to August 2024 indicated that Russia has emerged as the leading source market for Sharjah, capturing 21% of the market share. Following Russia, India accounted for 10%, while Oman represented 6% of the visitor demographic. Additionally, domestic tourism from within the UAE made up 11% of the total tourist influx, highlighting the importance of local travelers in the overall tourism landscape.

During the meeting, the SCTDA presented recent advancements in Sharjah’s tourism offerings and its ongoing efforts to enhance service quality and improve visitor experiences. The authority highlighted new tourist destinations within the emirate and discussed the development of marine transport services, which aim to diversify travel options and attract more visitors.

Strategic Initiatives for Future Growth

The SCTDA outlined ambitious plans to bolster the tourism sector further through strategic partnerships at both local and international levels. These key initiatives include launching collaborative marketing campaigns that target emerging markets, utilizing AI solutions for enhanced customer engagement, and implementing advanced digital platforms to reach broader audiences.

Additionally, the authority is focused on creating engaging events and experiences while establishing partnerships with shopping centers and retail outlets to foster sustainable growth within Sharjah’s tourism ecosystem.

A Timely Announcement

The timing of this announcement coincided with World Tourism Day on September 27, providing an opportunity to underscore the vital role of tourism in fostering economic, social, cultural, and environmental development. The SCTDA reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the tourism sector in line with best practices, ensuring sustainability and further solidifying Sharjah’s position as a preferred destination for travelers.

The Importance of Public-Private Partnerships

In his keynote address, the SCTDA Chairman emphasized the critical role of public-private partnerships in achieving the emirate’s sustainable development goals. This annual event exemplifies the successful collaboration among diverse stakeholders in the tourism industry, reflecting the vision of the Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah to establish the tourism sector as a fundamental pillar of the national economy.

It was noted that Sharjah has ambitious plans to enhance its tourism sector, which currently contributes over 11% to the UAE’s non-oil GDP. The emirate’s ongoing efforts include substantial infrastructure investments, the expansion of Sharjah International Airport, and the organization of year-round tourism events and activities.

Enhancing Service Quality and Resilience

The SCTDA also discussed its “Business Continuity Management System,” which is designed to ensure that essential services are delivered uninterrupted to the public, even in times of emergencies or crises. This system, aligned with the National Standard for Business Continuity Management, aims to enhance institutional resilience and facilitate a swift recovery from potential disruptions.

The positive trends in Sharjah’s tourism sector carry significant implications for travelers both regionally and globally. As the emirate enhances its offerings, tourists can expect a broader range of experiences, from cultural events to improved infrastructure that facilitates easier access. The emphasis on sustainability and quality service positions Sharjah as an increasingly attractive destination for international travelers, particularly from emerging markets.

With strategic partnerships and innovative marketing efforts, the SCTDA aims to not only attract more visitors but also to enrich the travel experience in Sharjah. This initiative is expected to resonate well with global travelers seeking unique and authentic experiences, further driving the emirate’s tourism growth.