Sharjah hosts more than a million...

Russians prove leading source market for the emirate

Sharjah has reported ongoing tourism growth in the first eight months of 2024, with hotel guest numbers increasing by 3.07% on the same period in 2023 to reach 1.057 million.

Hotel occupancy rates in the emirate remained steady at 66%, according to the latest statistics revealed during last week’s Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority's (SCTDA) annual ‘Connected Meeting’.

The January-August 2024 performance results also revealed Russia as the leading source market for Sharjah, accounting for 21% of market share.

India followed closely on 10%, followed by Oman at 6%. Meanwhile, Sharjah’s domestic tourism share from the UAE was 11%.

During the meeting, the authority showcased the latest advancements in the emirates’ tourism sector and its efforts to enhance the quality of tourism services and enrich visitor experiences.

The meeting also highlighted Sharjah’s new tourist destinations and the emirate’s marine transport services, while outlining future ambitions for the sector with a focus on bolstering strategic partnerships locally and internationally.

Key initiatives include launching collaborative marketing campaigns targeting emerging markets, the strategic use of AI solutions and implementing advanced digital platforms to expand audience reach.

SCTDA Chairman Khalid Jasim Al Midfa emphasised the role of public-private partnerships in achieving the emirate’s sustainable development goals.

“Sharjah has ambitious plans to further enhance the tourism sector, which already contributes over 11% to the UAE’s non-oil GDP,” he said.

“The emirate’s efforts include major infrastructure investments, the expansion of Sharjah International Airport and the organisation of year-round tourism events and activities.

“By strengthening collaboration among all tourism stakeholders, we aim to consistently elevate service quality and bolster Sharjah's status as a premier global tourist destination.”

For more information, visit www.sharjahtourism.ae

FIND OUT MORE