Sharjah is all set to make a grand debut for the first time in the fourth edition of the Riyadh Travel Fair, taking place in the Saudi capital from 15-18 May. More than 700 delegates from 30 countries, representing governments and leaders of the tourism and hospitality industry in the region and from around the world are taking part in the Riyadh fair, recording a 15 pc increase over last year.

HE Mohamed Ali Al Noman, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, described Sharjah’s participation in the Riyadh fair as a step forward. “This will strengthen the emirate’s tourism cooperation with the GCC countries, especially the Saudi market which is the biggest in the region and most important for us.

The Riyadh Travel Fair has emerged as one of the key events in the region. A number of local, regional and international destinations, companies and government bodies involved in the hospitality sector take part in it. So we are confident that this participation will help us in selling the Sharjah tourism product in the Saudi and regional market,” said Al Noman.

He said that the numbers of the Saudi tourists to Sharjah are growing fast every year. “Our statistics show that 65,291 Saudi tourists visited the emirate during the first quarter of 2012 itself, which is a 20 pc increase over last year when 54,442 Saudi tourists visited Sharjah. This proves the success of our strategy in working with GCC countries, especially in tapping the Saudi market,” he added.

He described Sharjah as a rich tourism destination with incredible diversity that includes leisure, culture, education, family fun options and all-year long celebrations. “Sharjah offers a perfect family destination for the GCC tourists with common traditions and lifestyle in a modern setting and with world-class amenities,” he emphasised.

Underscoring the importance of the burgeoning Gulf tourism market, the SCTDA Chairman said that events like these contribute immensely to sharing experiences and exchange of ideas among the leading players and regional tourism destinations. He said that close cooperation and coordination between the public and private sector could help in setting common goals and strategies to promote tourism and the economy in the region.

The SCTDA will be leading the emirate’s delegation to the Riyadh travel fair that includes among others Hotel Holiday International, Al Hamrah Hotel and Golden Tulip Sharjah.

The Riyadh exhibition has emerged as one of the leading events of the Middle East’s fast growing travel and tourism industry and hospitality sector.

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