TravTalk Middle East Online Magazine
Sharjah’s popularity as a sought-after tourism destination in the region is rising day-by-day, and the emirate is currently competing with the world’s top luxury travel destinations. The emirate’s rich culture, heritage and diversity of outdoor leisure activities are being highlighted across global markets.
Led by the insightful vision and directives of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) continues to climb new heights in its efforts to position Sharjah among the best travel and tourism destinations in the world.
Memorable experiences
Sharjah never ceases to surprise its visitors with its tourism offerings and services that continue to evolve in line with global standards. Unique experiences await tourists from different countries and age groups in this lively emirate. Thanks to its advanced tourism infrastructure and an array of fun-filled activities, visitors return to this destination time and again.
An endless variety of adventure activities make the emirate of Sharjah an attractive destination for thrill-seekers. History enthusiasts and adventure buffs will surely enjoy learning about and exploring the rich culture and heritage that the emirate offers, as reflected by its diverse range of museums.
Sharjah has something for everyone, and given this, it comes as no surprise that the emirate is increasingly sought-after by families seeking memorable holiday experiences. The ongoing development of uniquely designed eco-friendly tourism projects such as the Kalba Kingfisher Lodge and Al Faya Lodge in coastal areas also reflects the pace of the emirate’s economic growth. These projects are garnering a lot of attention from the residents and tourists alike.
Outdoor activities
Sharjah’s desert continues to be one of the top destinations sought-after by adventure amateurs and outdoor enthusiasts. With the onset of the winter season every year, visitors and tourists flock to the desert for outdoor activities. Sharjah is ideally placed to meet the growing demand for outdoor tourism as travellers look for adventures, while also exploring the geographical, historical and archaeological monuments only the emirate can offer. A perfect example is Mleiha, an archeological destination that embodies the history, nature and culture of the emirate. Outdoor enthusiasts who arrive in Sharjah enjoy plenty of adventure activities, including four-wheel driving between tall sand dunes, spectacular rock climbing and sand skiing. Along with a number of wildlife sanctuaries in Sharjah, nature lovers are sure to enjoy a trip to Kalba, which is located 120 km east of Sharjah city, as it is home to mangroves that shelter a wide array of rare bird species.
Aqua tourism
Furthermore, those who seek tranquility and serenity might find Sharjah’s attractive beaches and blue waters both rejuvenating and refreshing. One can enjoy the depths of these oceans by embarking on a wide variety of activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and canoeing and understand why Sharjah is also a popular aqua tourism destination. The emirate’s coastal stretch features the pristine Khorfakkan beach and some of the most popular diving sites as well. Here, visitors will be able to revel in the white sandy bay with a wonderful view of the sea while relaxing under the shade of palm trees. Top spots such as Al Khan beach, Khorfakkan beach and the mangroves of Khor Kalba offer excellent opportunities for kayaking and paddle boarding too. SCTDA continues to organise activities that are designed to promote the emirate’s touristic and cultural attractions and present the emirate as a preferred destination for visitors and tourists alike, adding much value to its position as an unforgettable tourism destination in the region.
