After a remarkably successful performance at the WTM 2012, London earlier this month, Sharjah has launched a new road show to target new tourism markets in Europe and add to its already formidable share of European tourists. The emirate has already received more than 445,000 European tourists until October this year, according to HE Mohamed Ali Al Noman, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority.

The last of Sharjah’s series of road shows this year, the European one being held from 12 to 14 November includes visits to and presentations in major cities of Switzerland, Austria and Germany. As part of the campaign, the SCTDA teams will be conducting workshops and meetings with representatives of 30 leading tourism and travel agencies, hospitality sector and the media in the region.

The Sharjah delegation will introduce the distinct Sharjah tourism product and market and its celebrated features like culture, heritage and numerous family festivals and events.

Commenting on the European road show SCTDA Chairman Al Noman, hailed the successful road shows conducted by the Authority throughout this year that included visits to a number of the Gulf and CIS countries. He underscored the role and contribution of these tours in the growth and development of the tourism market and local economy, enhancing its position on the world tourism map.

Al Noman underscored the crucial nature of Europe for Sharjah, which forms 32 per cent share of the emirate’s tourist arrivals. Out of the 1,384,484 international tourists that the emirate received until October this year, the number of European visitors stands at 445,124. Sharjah remains a favourite holiday destination for European travelers thanks to its charming beaches, celebrated heritage and culture – it is home to 22 museums and cultural centers – and a world-class infrastructure and hotel facilities.

He drew attention to numerous international festivals and events hosted by the emirate that have put Sharjah in the league of some of the best holiday destinations in the world. “Events like the ongoing Sharjah International Book Fair, oldest and biggest of its kind in the Middle East, and upcoming Sharjah Water Festival, Sharjah Grand Prix and the Sharjah Light Festival make the emirate an ideal family destination,” he added.

The Sharjah Heritage Days, Sharjah Biennial, Sharjah Spring and Summer Promotions are some of the many art and cultural events and activities that are hosted by different departments and wings of the Sharjah government making the emirate an all-year destination with a busy and diverse calendar of events.