Page 11 - Shj Tourism Annual Report 2019 English

Sharjah enjoys a variety of distinctive tourism capabilities and possibilities which receive the continuous support and encouragement from His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad AlQasimi, member of the Federal Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Sharjah’s vibrant and cutting-edge infrastructure plays an essential role in the growth and development of the emirate’s tourism sector, alongside the massive development projects being undertaken by the emirate and along its eastern coast, providing sizable support for the emirate’s tourism status. The UAE’s tourism sector has made notable successes which constitute as an inspiration for many other nations. The country is now one of the most significant tourism destinations according to many international reports and specialized indicators. The UAE ranked 1st in the Arab world and 25th globally in the 2019 Global Competitiveness Report issued by the World Economic Forum. The figures and data of this report are undoubtedly a means to shed light on the achievements of SCTDA and the strategies implemented in domestic and international promotion and marketing. They also demonstrate the SCTDA’s accomplishments in training, development and new strategies implemented to achieve its goals. In addition, the report outlines the key initiatives presented by the SCTDA to promote the tourism sector and support sustainable tourism in the UAE, leading to the enhancement of the tourism industry in Sharjah. Finally, I would like to thank all of our strategic partners in the public and private sectors for their continuous contributions towards supporting the tourism sector with services and initiatives which promote sustainable development opportunities and ensure the pioneering position of the tourism sector in Sharjah. Chairman Message 11 11 Annual Report - 2019 The Story of a Year