Sharjah has recently wrapped up a highly successful roadshow across three major cities in India—Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai—aimed at strengthening its presence in the Indian tourism market. The initiative showcased Sharjah’s evolving tourism offerings, including new branding and infrastructural developments, while fostering stronger connections with key Indian stakeholders in the travel and tourism industry. In an exclusive interview, H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, shared insights into the emirate’s strategy, its focus on sustainability, and its plans for positioning Sharjah as a premier global destination.
Sharjah recently completed a successful roadshow across three major cities in India—Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. What was the goal of this initiative, and how was it received? What were some key highlights of the roadshow, and how do they reflect Sharjah’s tourism strategy?
The roadshow was a vital part of our strategy to strengthen Sharjah’s presence in the Indian market and foster deeper relationships with key stakeholders in the travel and tourism industry. We’re thrilled with the positive reception. India has always been one of our top source markets, and through these briefings, we’ve been able to showcase the developments and tourism opportunities Sharjah has to offer. The interest from Indian travel professionals and media has been encouraging, and we are committed to nurturing these relationships further.
The roadshow provided valuable insights into Sharjah’s evolving tourism landscape. One of the key highlights was the unveiling of our new branding initiative, positioning Sharjah as “Visit Sharjah”. This reflects our desire to be seen not just as a destination, but as a platform where businesses and individuals can craft their own unique stories. It’s all about creating an environment where creativity, authenticity, and sustainable development thrive. Our aim is to make Sharjah a dynamic place for visitors to experience something truly special.
Sharjah’s infrastructure and connectivity are growing rapidly. Can you tell us about some of the new developments and their impact on tourism?
Absolutely. One of the most exciting developments is the newly completed highway connecting Sharjah city to the East Coast. What once took two hours to drive is now reduced to just 45 minutes, opening up new tourism opportunities for cities like Khorfakkan and Kalba, known for their natural beauty and adventure activities. This improved connectivity enhances not only tourism but also economic growth. We’re also focused on restoring historical sites in the central desert region, preserving Sharjah’s unique cultural heritage for future generations.
How does Sharjah balance its rich cultural heritage with modern development?
Sharjah has always embraced its cultural roots, and we’re proud of our world-renowned museums, which are accessible to all visitors. Our museums offer an affordable way to explore Sharjah’s history and are integral to our tourism strategy. By offering these experiences with minimal barriers, we provide a genuine and enriching glimpse into the region’s cultural identity. At the same time, we’re advancing in modern development to ensure that visitors have a comfortable and world-class experience in Sharjah, blending the best of both worlds.
Sharjah is also redefining luxury tourism. Can you elaborate on some of the luxury experiences available?
Sharjah is setting new standards in luxury tourism, creating exceptional experiences that go beyond the financial aspect. A prime example is the Sharjah Safari, the world’s largest safari outside Africa. It’s not only a major attraction but also a testament to our commitment to conservation. The use of outdoor air-conditioning for the animals and the involvement of local guides, including women, highlight our dedication to sustainable tourism.
Our luxury portfolio is diverse, offering everything from heritage hotels like The Chedi Al Bait, which has been restored from family homes, to the Al Faya Retreat, a desert retreat with a Himalayan salt spa. We also offer unique experiences like glamping at Moon Retreat and tranquil relaxation in the mangroves at Kingfisher Retreat. These experiences showcase our commitment to blending heritage with world-class luxury while honoring our environmental responsibilities.
Sustainability seems to be a key focus for Sharjah. How are you incorporating sustainability into tourism?
Sustainability is at the heart of our tourism strategy. We’re committed to responsible tourism that aligns with both social and environmental efforts. The Sharjah Safari is a great example of how we integrate wildlife conservation into our tourism model. Additionally, we’re supporting local SMEs and initiatives that foster sustainable practices across the emirate.
The expansion of Sharjah International Airport, which will increase capacity to 25 million passengers by 2026, is another example of our efforts to support growth while remaining environmentally conscious. Sustainability is also reflected in our investments in cultural landmarks like the Sharjah Amphitheatre, which further enhances the emirate’s appeal to visitors.
India continues to be a key market for Sharjah. What trends are you seeing in Indian travel, and how is Sharjah catering to Indian tourists?
India’s growing middle class and their increasing desire for unique, culturally immersive experiences align perfectly with what Sharjah has to offer. We’ve seen a significant increase in travel trends from India, and we’re committed to providing exceptional, personalized experiences for Indian tourists.
As the UAE’s cooler months approach, we expect a surge of visitors from India. With our expanding range of luxury, adventure, and cultural experiences, we invite Indian travelers to discover Sharjah—where authenticity, conservation, and heritage come together in perfect harmony. We’re excited about the opportunities ahead and are eager to continue deepening our relationship with the Indian market.
With all these developments, how do you see Sharjah’s future in the global tourism market?
Sharjah is well on its way to becoming a leading global tourism destination. Our infrastructure investments, new developments, and commitment to sustainability and luxury tourism all contribute to our long-term vision. We want to be a destination that offers something for everyone—whether it’s exploring our rich cultural heritage, enjoying world-class luxury, or experiencing adventure and conservation. Sharjah’s unique blend of history, culture, and innovation will continue to attract travelers from all over the world, particularly from key markets like India. We’re excited about the future and the opportunities it holds.