Page 93 - Shj Tourism Annual Report 2019 English

experience for cruises, Khorfakkan Seaport continues to grow into a leading tourism destination. After a new cruise ship terminal was approved in 2015, work is underway to provide a world-class cruise terminal capable of welcoming more of the newest and largest passenger ships in the world. Excellent facilities are being designed, including shopping centers, spas and food areas. Additionally, offices for government bodies such as Customs, Port, Immigration and Police will be opened. The Sharjah Government is also investing heavily in a number of tourism infrastructure projects in and around the emirate, especially in Khorfakkan, such as Khorfakkan Beach and Flag Square. This will place Sharjah and Khorfakkan at the top of the world’s favorite marine tourism destinations. Due to the importance of the area for tourism, the SCTDA, a few months prior to the 2018/2019 cruise season, established a local office in Khorfakkan, also charged with developing the tourism sector and promoting the nearby coastal city of Kalba. The Arab navigation alliance (Cruise Arabia), of which Sharjah is an active member, aims to set regional service standards for the cruise industry while developing the region as a major tourist destination for cruise ships. Sharjah Vision 2021 Attract 10 Million Visitor 93 93 Annual Report - 2019 The Story of a Year