Sharjah puts up impressive Madrid show

Sharjah wrapped up an impressive participation in the International Tourism Trade Fair (Fitur 2013) in Madrid on Sunday second year in a row managing to draw the attention of international tourism players and decision makers with its successful pitch for the emirate and its tourism industry. The Madrid exhibition, held from Jan.30 to Feb.3 in the Spanish capital. The UAE Ambassador to Spain Dr Hessa Abdullah Al Otaiba was amongst the dignitaries who visited the exquisite Sharjah pavilion. The emirate’s stand witnessed a regular stream of visitors that included exhibitors, investors and representatives of global travel and tourism industry and journalists, who evinced keen interest in Sharjah’s tourism sector and attractions and various cultural festivals and events, according to the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA). Sharjah with its rich heritage, cultural attractions, architecture, archaeological sites and various family festivals offered a very distinct and satisfying tourism experience to European and international travellers. Pointing out to the significance of Spanish and European tourism markets, SCTDA authorities said that the region is a major feeding market for tourism sectors around the world, especially Sharjah, which attracts a large number of visitors from Europe. Exhibitions like Fitur Madrid boosted the co-operation and interaction between various tourism players, investors and companies generating greater opportunities for everyone and helping the tourism sector grow. The SCTDA officials briefed the visitors on Sharjah’s offerings to international tourists and investors. Promotional literature about Sharjah profiling its rich cultural heritage, tourist attractions and various festivals and events held throughout the year was made available in various international languages at the Sharjah stand. On the sidelines of the exhibition, the officials also held meetings and consultations with senior policymakers, participating companies and industry experts to keep pace with the developments in the sector and to share ideas and experiences with various tourism destinations. The SCTDA led the Sharjah delegation that included key players of the emirate’s tourism and hospitality sectors including the popular flagship airline Air Arabia, Hotel Radisson Blu and Grand Hotel. Sharjah’s participation in Fitur Madrid comes at a time when the emirate is all set to host the Sharjah Light Festival 2013, from Feb.7 to 15 at 14 locations across the emirate. The Authority therefore turned special focus on the Festival of Lights at the Madrid fair hoping to attract a large number of European travellers during the period. With its celebration of Arab heritage, art, archaeological sites, art and international family festivals and cultural activities organised throughout the year, Sharjah enjoys a special place in the eyes of European tourists. From The Gulf Today