More than 107,000 tourists visit Sharjah in June

Sharjah: The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) has reported that the number of guests staying in the emirate's hotels and hotel apartments in June reached 107,000, a 3 per cent increase over June 2009.

The increase 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.

It includes 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 per cent hotel occupancy rate reported in June this year compared to the 61 per cent 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 up from 104,911 in June 2009 a 3 per cent increase.

With regard to guests staying in hotels and hotel apartments, figures show that the number staying in hotels reached 51,878 in last month compared to 51,354 in June 2009, while 55,801 guests stayed in hotel apartments, up from 53,557 in June 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, with hotel room nights accounting for 56,694, and hotel apartment room nights accounting for 55,605.

This compares with 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, Mohammad A. Al No'man, 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 favourable tourist destination, particularly due to its unique combination of attractions."

Stressing the importance of activities in Sharjah, Al No'man 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.

This is 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.

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 No'man said the SCTDA's strategy focuses on participating in the world's largest tourism and trade exhibitions and organising promotional tours and activities.