More than 107,000 tourists visited Sharjah in June
Date Published: Thursday, July 22, 2010
Sharjah offers unique activities that attract visitors from all over the world
According to a recent report, the number of tourists in Sharjah increased by three percent − to 107,000 visitors − in June, compared to the same period in 2009.
The latest report by the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), states that the total number of guests staying in the emirate's hotels and hotel apartments reached 107,000, a three percent increase compared to the reported during June 2009.
The increase in tourist numbers can be credited to the unique diversity of tourist attractions and special offerings in Sharjah, according to the report. In fact, the huge turnout of tourists in Sharjah is specifically attributed to the emirate's rich portfolio of entertainment, cultural and tourist attractions, including museums, public parks, entertainment and family themed facilities, safari trips, diving trips and shopping facilities, as well as the captivating natural sites and sandy coasts, all of which offer an unforgettable experience to visitors.
According to SCTDA statistics, there has been steady growth in the tourism sector, with a 64 percent hotel occupancy rate reported in June this year compared to the 61 percent recorded in the corresponding period last year.
The figures also show that a total of 107,670 guests stayed in hotels and hotel apartments in June this year − up from 104,911 in 2009 − constituting a 3 percent increase.
With regards to guests staying in hotels and hotel apartments, figures show that the number staying in hotels reached 51,878 in June 2010 compared to 51,354 in June 2009, while 55,801 guests stayed in hotel apartments during the period under review, up from 53,557 in 2009.
Figures also show that the total number of occupied room nights in Sharjah's hotels and hotel apartments rose to 112,299 in June 2010, with hotel room nights accounting for 56,694, and hotel apartment room nights accounting for 55,605. This is compared to 106,460 occupied room nights during the same period in 2009, during which hotel room nights accounted for 52,300, and hotel apartment room nights accounted for 54,160.
Commenting on these figures, Mohamed A. Al Noman, SCTDA Director General, said: "These figures provide clear evidence of the great efforts exerted by Sharjah in promoting commerce and tourism, and serves as proof that the emirate has become a favorable tourist destination, particularly due to its unique combination of attractions.”
Stressing the importance of activities in Sharjah, Al Noman said that festivals and events are the gateway to the world as they reflect the emirate's rich cultural heritage and tourist assets.
On Sharjah’s summer promotions, he stated that this year is distinguished by a variety of shows, offers and other events across shopping malls and markets throughout the emirate, in addition to grand prizes and entertaining activities designed to meet the different tastes and needs of all family members so as to spend unforgettable times in Sharjah.
He added that Sharjah's charm is not confined to the city, which is renowned for a wide range of tourist attractions, but that it also extends to the surrounding areas − boasting fascinating natural environments, resorts and natural reserves, as well as the historical identity that distinguishes Sharjah − where visitors can enjoy shopping, as well as various family, entertainment, sports and heritage activities throughout the year.
Al Noman pointed out that the SCTDA's strategy focuses on participating in the world's largest tourism and trade exhibitions and organizing promotional tours and activities dedicated to the promotion of tourism globally.
"The Authority will work dedicatedly to boost Sharjah’s status, and its strong foothold, on the global tourism map. In line with this, the SCTDA is adopting carefully planned strategies based on the reality of the global markets, and are constantly seeking ways of coping with changes in the global economy," he added.